If you are tired of the days of renting a house, or plan to truly take root, then buying a house in Holland is the right choice for you.
Let's first look at a set of data. According to statistics from the Dutch Statistics Bureau (CBS) and Kadaster, housing prices are still rising, and in April 2019 they increased by 7,7% compared to the same period last year . Although houses in the Netherlands are getting more and more expensive, compared with April 2018, the number of property sales in April 2019 was 6% more.
Housing prices in the Netherlands are already at historically high levels. Isn't it inappropriate to buy a house now? Should we wait?
According to authoritative Dutch real estate experts, although it is felt that the increase in house prices in the Netherlands is now decreasing, it does not mean that house prices will decrease. From the data point of view, house prices are still growing. On the contrary, there is news that the Dutch mortgage interest rate may continue to fall.
If you have a need to buy a house in the Netherlands, and you have the right one, don't hesitate!
A related authoritative real estate agency in Amsterdam recently gave 10 suggestions to small partners who are buying a house for the first time, so that we can step on as little as possible when buying a house and avoid some irreparable mistakes...
Let us take a look and learn!
1. I don’t know how expensive a house I can afford
Not knowing how expensive a house you can afford is one of the most common mistakes made by first-time buyers. Before you start looking for a suitable house, it is recommended that you consult a real estate mortgage consultant, who will help you determine your purchase budget.
2. Failure to consider all available mortgage options
Not only do you have to study your own bank’s mortgage loan plan, but also other lenders and the different types of mortgages they offer. And also arrange meetings with independent mortgage consultants, because their usual job is to deal with various banks and lenders. They are more aware of the available interest rates and mortgages, so that you will get the most suitable mortgage.
3. Don't understand some of the costs incurred in buying a house
According to experience, the purchase cost of the buyer is usually about 6% of the purchase price of the property. The purchase cost includes transfer tax, notarization cost, agency cost and mortgage cost.
4. Forget to consider all the expenses incurred after buying a house
Owning a house is very different from renting a house. You need to make sure that you have enough floating space in terms of funds so that you can save some money every month in case you need it. In this way, when you encounter a problem, you can also have the funds to deal with it to solve the problem. Many first-time homebuyers may forget to consider the additional costs that may be incurred after purchasing the property, such as various insurances, house maintenance, and taxes.
5. To save costs without hiring real estate agents
First-time home buyers sometimes try to cut costs and bypass intermediaries to buy directly from developers or owners. Although it is now possible to do more research through the Internet, it is still irreplaceable for experienced professionals. A real estate agent who understands the market can help you get a more suitable offer, thereby saving you time, money and effort.
6. Too impulsive when buying a house and not always rational
Now, the sales of some first-launch apartments are fast, leading to the situation that first-time buyers may not be able to buy them for the first time. This makes buying a home can be a long and frustrating process. Under such circumstances, it is easy for buyers to look for a house that exceeds the budget, or get into trouble in a highly competitive price war, and eventually pay a price that is much higher than what you want.
7. Fall in love with unrealistic house decoration
Many developers will make a big fuss on the demonstration unit, or display the houses for sale with excellent home decoration. Charming furniture and perfect supporting facilities can indeed add a lot of color to the house. But the problem is that the house we see in this situation is often far from the house we actually bought.
8. No appointment of a property inspector to inspect the house
An on-site inspection by a technician will help you avoid serious mistakes. In addition, the report of the technical inspection will explain the basic information about the shape of the house, which will save you from wasting money or being troubled by the need for additional repairs.
9. I bought a house that needed a big renovation
Some old houses do look very antique and look good, but how much does it actually cost to turn this house into your place of residence? Before buying a house that requires serious TLC (Tender Loving Care, that is, some places need to be repaired), you must consider some potential repair risks, and it is best to think twice!
10. Not considering the future needs of the house
In the long run, a house is not only a home, it is also a long-term investment. Of course, no one can tell you what will happen in the future, but do you know what your plan is for the next 5 years?
Are you considering having a family in the near future? If so, you might be better off choosing a family-friendly area rather than a lively area, or buying a two-bedroom apartment instead of a one-bedroom apartment.
In the end, don't buy a house too lightly. Before buying a house, there are many things that need to be considered. If you really want to buy it, please make sure you have the help of relevant professionals.