Selling Your Home in the Netherlands: A Step-by-Step Overview in 3 Phases
Selling your home in the Netherlands may seem like a complex process, but with the right preparation and guidance, it can be a smooth and successful journey. Below, we’ll walk you through the three key phases of the home selling process: preparation before listing, the sales phase, and completion phase.
Phase 1: Preparation Before Listing & Selling Your Home
The foundation of a successful home sale lies in preparation. Here’s what you need to do to get your home ready for the market:
- Choose the Right Makelaar
Start by selecting a makelaar (real estate agent) you trust. Look for someone with experience, local market knowledge, and clear pricing. Your makelaar will be your guide and advocate throughout the process. - Complete the Sales Questionnaire
Dutch law requires all sellers to complete a questionnaire detailing any defects or maintenance issues in the home. Be honest and thorough—this ensures transparency and prevents disputes later on. - Prepare a List of Included Items
Create a list of items that will remain in the home after the sale, such as built-in appliances, and note any items you’re willing to sell separately. - Obtain an Energy Label
A valid energy label is mandatory for completing the sale. If you don’t already have one, you’ll need to arrange for an energy assessor to provide it. - Get Your Home Ready for Photos
Tidy up both the interior and exterior of your home. First impressions matter, and professional media (photos, videos, and floorplans) are key to attracting buyers. Your makelaar will likely work with a media company to create this content.
Phase 2: The Sales Phase
Once your home is listed, the sales phase begins. Here’s what to expect:
- Your Home Listing Goes Live
Your makelaar will list your home on Funda.nl (the leading Dutch real estate platform), share it within their network of agents, and promote it on social media. - Research and Showings
Your makelaar will research your property details in the land registry and coordinate with potential buyers for showings. Interest often begins the same day your home is listed. - Decide on the Bidding Process
Based on buyer interest, you and your makelaar will decide whether to negotiate offers individually or use an online bidding platform. Both options have pros and cons, and your makelaar can guide you in choosing the best approach. - Accepting an Offer
Once offers come in, you’ll review them with your makelaar’s advice. Consider not just the price but also the terms, such as the buyer’s financing and conditions.
Phase 3: Completion Phase
After accepting an offer, the sale moves toward finalization:
- Sign the Sales Contract
The contract outlines the agreed price, conditions, and the date of transfer at the notary. Both you and the buyer must sign to make it binding. - Cooling-Off Period
Dutch law grants buyers a 3-day cooling-off period during which they can cancel the agreement without penalty. - Final Inspection and Closing Day
On the day of transfer, both parties conduct a final inspection to ensure the home’s condition matches what was agreed. You’ll then meet at the notary to sign the transfer deed and hand over the keys. - Aftercare
Occasionally, issues may arise after the sale. A good makelaar will provide aftercare and mediate any disputes between you and the buyer.
A Few Final Tips
Between signing the contract and closing, it’s your responsibility as the seller to maintain the home in its agreed-upon condition.
The bulk of your effort will go into the preparation phase, so investing time here will make the rest of the process much easier.
Enjoy the moment! Selling your home is a milestone worth celebrating.
By understanding these steps and working closely with a knowledgeable makelaar, you’ll feel confident and prepared throughout the home selling process. The Xpat Agent is here to guide you every step of the way—let’s make this journey as smooth and successful as possible!
Want a quick overview? Watch this video as our expert makelaar, Yves Lamé, breaks down the key points of this article for you! Interesting but want to know how to choose a makelaar? Read here on what you should know.
