The purchase price is just the beginning. Between transfer tax, notary fees, valuation costs, and ongoing expenses, budget an additional 6-10% of the purchase price for closing costs—plus monthly expenses that many first-time buyers underestimate.
Reality Check
- • €400k property = €24k-40k in closing costs
- • Monthly costs average €400-600 beyond mortgage
- • First-year maintenance: budget 1-2% of property value
- • Emergency fund: 6 months of total housing costs
One-Time Closing Costs
Transfer Tax (Overdrachtsbelasting)
2% of purchase price€400k = €8,000
0% for buyers under 35 (first home)
Notary Fees
€1,500-2,500Deed preparation + registration
Required by law
Mortgage Advisor
€2,000-4,000Or 1% of mortgage
Often worth the cost
Property Valuation (Taxatie)
€400-800Bank requirement
Valid 6 months
Building Inspection
€400-600Optional but recommended
Can save thousands
NHG Premium
0.4% of mortgage€400k = €1,600
One-time, lowers rate
Monthly Recurring Costs
Property Tax (OZB)
€50-150/monthBased on WOZ value
Water Board Tax
€20-40/monthFlood protection
Home Insurance
€30-60/monthContents + building
Energy (Gas + Electric)
€150-300/monthVaries by label
Water/Sewage
€40-70/monthUsage-based
VVE (Apartment)
€100-300/monthIf applicable
Maintenance Reserve
€100-200/monthRecommended
Internet/TV
€40-80/monthStandard package
First-Year Surprises
Budget for These
- • Furniture & appliances: €5,000-15,000
- • Minor repairs discovered post-purchase: €2,000-5,000
- • Garden/outdoor setup: €1,000-3,000
- • Window treatments: €500-2,000
- • Moving costs: €500-2,000
Cost Comparison: Apartment vs House
Apartment (€400k)
House (€400k)
Money-Saving Tips
Do This
- •Get NHG to lower interest rate
- •Shop around for insurance (save €200/year)
- •DIY minor repairs and painting
- •Energy-efficient appliances (lower bills)
Avoid This
- •Maxing out mortgage (no buffer)
- •Skipping building inspection
- •Underestimating renovation costs
- •No emergency fund (risky)