Looking for your new home in The Hague? Here are some tips to get started.

The Hague is an attractive place to settle with its rich history and vibrant international community. Whether you're relocating for work, study, or simply a change of scenery, finding the perfect home in this city can be both exciting and challenging. Here are some tips to help you get started. 

The Hague is a city of diverse neighbourhoods, each with its own unique charm. From the busy city centre, the nearby beaches to the quieter areas, there's something for everyone. Spend some time browsing online and exploring the different areas in real life to find the one that suits your lifestyle. 

Before you start looking at listings it is important to consider what you really want in a home. Do you need to be close to a train station? Is a garden important to you? What about the energy label? Defining your priorities will help you narrow down your options and make the search more efficient. However, do not narrow it down too much or you might miss your match!  

A local real estate agent can be a great asset to keep your vision in mind, especially if you're unfamiliar with the area. They can help you find properties that match your criteria, negotiate on your behalf, and guide you through the legal aspects of buying your next home. 

Housing can vary significantly in price, thus it’s crucial to set a budget early on. Consider not just the cost of the property but also additional expenses like the buyer’s costs. This can vary from 3% to 6% of the purchase price. 

If you're new to the Dutch housing market, it would be helpful to consult a mortgage advisor to understand your financial options. As an expat, navigating the Dutch mortgage system can be complex. ‘’In a competitive market like The Hague, having a mortgage consultant who specializes in assisting expats can give you the confidence to move forward in the house search’’ stresses Chloée Huvelin, a mortgage consultant at Expat Mortgages.  ‘’They will make a financial assessment, explain the timeline of buying a property and guide you through the process of obtaining a mortgage.’’ 

Expat Mortgages regularly organizes webinars tailored for expats. These sessions provide detailed insights into the Dutch mortgage process, helping you to take a step closer to buying a property. Feel free to join their next webinar for more information Events - Expat Mortgages.   

Overall, finding your new home in The Hague can be experienced as a smooth process with the right preparation and guidance!