Bert van Essen, Author at XPAT.NL

New theater show about tennis aims at internationals living in the Netherlands

The world of sports can sometimes get surprisingly political. Individual athletes get caught up in the machinations of geopolitics. Often they’re not very political people themselves, hyperfocused as they have to be on their sport. But especially when they’re representing their home countries in international competition, they are often equated with the actions their governments take. Sometimes this leads to remarkable exclusions at tournaments like the Olympics, Wimbledon and recently the Gymnastics Championships in Indonesia.

Vanja Rukavina

Vanja Rukavina (1989) is a well established Dutch actor with a former-Yugoslavian background. He fled Sarajevo weeks before the siege in 1992 and experienced The Netherlands in the mid-nineties as a refugee. The exclusion of international Russian, Belarusian and Israeli athletes in the wake of international conflicts fascinated him terribly. After having sacrificed everything to be able to compete at the world stage, they suddenly see their dreams go up in smoke because of issues completely outside their own control. Rukavina: “This huge contrast between dedication and dependency makes for a tragic figure that I thought could teach us a lot about what it means to try and achieve excellence when you have bicultural heritage”.

Soft spot

Besides geopolitics getting in the way of individuals’ dreams, Vanja Rukavina has a soft spot for the bad boys of tennis. Mold-breaking stars like Novak Ɖoković, Nick Kyrgios, John McEnroe and Serena Williams defy conventions and create space for a diversity of identities in a traditionally quite formal world. “I can spend hours on Youtube replaying explosive reactions to missed points or umpire decisions, and particularly love the press conferences after a match”, Rukavina says. “It often seems like the last thing they want to do after having lost or won a match is talk to journalists in front of a camera. I wanted to tell a story through these on-camera moments. These athletes are growing up in public and often have to respond to questions about things they know very little about.”

Pressure Point

Vanja Rukavina’s production PRESSURE POINT, tells the story of a fictional world number 1 in tennis: Viktor Rađenović. “With Viktor I created an alter ego for myself where I mix my story with Novak Ɖoković’s. The audience won’t be able to know what’s inspired by Novak and what elements I secretly weaved in from my own life” Rukavina says with a scheming glint in his eyes. “But that’s not the point: I want the audience to relate to the story of someone who despite himself becomes a pawn in a game that far exceeds him. People living outside of their home country will all recognise this feeling to some extent. I explicitly want to make theater that’s relevant to non-Dutch residents in this country.”

PRESSURE POINT runs from 12 November until 28 February.
Check vanjarukavina.nl for dates in theaters near you.

Insurance Options for Self-Employed Persons in the Netherlands

One of the opportunities provided to non-Dutch nationals by Dutch law is the option of being self-employed, without the need for an employment permit. As long as you have a residence permit and a talent or knowledge that you wish to offer in self-employment, you have the chance to give it a go. The term for someone working in self-employment is ZZP (Zelfstandige Zonder Personeel; Independent with no Employees), and you are then referred to as a ZZPer.

Where to Start?

An important matter, when working in self-employment, is that of insurance – and this may be daunting. This is a different culture, with different laws – so, how do you know how to arrange insurance? And what to insure? And how much it costs? One in ten people on the Dutch labor market is ZZPer, which fortunately means that the insurance market for this group covers a wide range of topics.

Anyone who wishes to set up a company in the Netherlands will quickly find themselves directed to the Kamer van Koophandel (KvK) – or Chamber of Commerce. The KvK is where you register your company, but also where you can find advice – such as on what type of insurance to arrange. Examples given are: professional liability, company liability, legal aid, inventory, disability –and more.

Liability Insurance

A good place to go for a complete overview of types of insurance available is, offered by the insurance company Nationale Nederlanden (NN). First on the list is business liability insurance in case of damage you have caused to other people or their property. This could be because of something you sold, but also if you rented something and damaged it – as well as financial damages incurred by patients if you are a medical practitioner. It also covers so-called ‘previous damages’; perhaps you are responsible for damage that occurred before you took out the insurance, without you being aware of this – this is covered, also in the case of projects in the construction industry. You can even choose to take out insurance that covers damage caused while insured, though you have since stopped working in self-employment and have terminated the insurance.

Transportation

The type of insurance you will need depends greatly on what services you will be offering. Should this be in the realm of transportation, you can insure against damages suffered by goods you are transporting – but also expenses in connection with late delivery, legal aid or the cleaning up of damaged cargo. Additional insurance is available to cover damages caused by others if you have outsourced the distribution, as well as for the consequences of the failing of a cooling mechanism during transportation.

Cyber Security

In this day and age, a risk that is far from negligeable is that of cyber security. NN protects you against the consequences of data theft, hacking, systems breaches, and other types of cyber criminality. The insurance not only covers the damage suffered by your clients, but also costs you incur in connection with image repair, or stolen data. Additional coverage is available for those who want to insure themselves against the consequences of their website being down for a longer period of time due to a cyber attack.

Buildings

Should you be working from an office, you can choose to have this insured for the consequences of storm, water (precipitation as well as leaks), fire and vandalism. Options are: repairing the damaged areas or items – or, if this is not feasible, property reinstatement. If you turn out to be underinsured, NN guarantees that you will be compensated for the full damage.

Installation Services

If you offer installation services, you can take out insurance to cover material damages, damages to equipment, and the costs of setting up and removing auxiliary equipment – as well as the theft of these items. The insurance covers not only you, but also your client, the builder and subcontractors.

Final Words of Advice

This is just a selection of available insurances, and just two words of advice remain. Do not forget to arrange legal aid insurance (rechtsbijstandverzekering; because navigating the law in another country and language can be a considerable challenge. And second, be sure to check exactly which issues are covered by the insurance you are considering so as to avoid unpleasant (and avoidable) surprises in the future.

How to arrange your energy contract in the Netherlands as an expat

Moving to the Netherlands or switching homes? Whether you’re renting, buying or just here for a while, you’ll need to sort out your energy. No contract means no heating, no lights and basically no comfort. The tricky thing? Energy contracts in the Netherlands follow the person, not the address. So, you can take your contract with you when you move but you can’t leave it behind for someone else. One thing to keep an eye on is energy prices in the Netherlands. Prices can change depending on the time of year, the provider and the type of contract. Compare a few offers before you jump in. It can save you quite a bit in the long run.

Moving in for the first time

If it’s your first time living on your own, you’ll need to set up an energy contract from scratch. Make sure to give your supplier your new address at least two weeks before you move in. Without a contract, you can’t use any electricity or gas and sitting in the dark on your first night isn’t the best vibe. Not sure how long you’ll stay? Then don’t tie yourself down to a fixed contract. Go for a flexible or dynamic deal that you can cancel without extra costs. These options are especially helpful if you’re just testing the waters or unsure how long you’ll stay in your new home. Need help deciding? Doing an energy comparison in the Netherlands is a smart move. There are plenty of tools that show you the best options based on your location and usage. Whether you’re after green energy or just the lowest rate, there’s something for everyone.

Already have a contract? Take it with you.

If you’re already with a supplier, you can usually take your contract with you when you move. Just let them know at least two weeks in advance. One catch though if your new place doesn’t have a gas connection, you’ll need to switch to electricity only. Heads up: the day you get the keys to your new home, the energy contract should be active at that address. That applies whether it’s a rental or a home you’ve bought. You’ll also keep the contract at your old place until you officially hand over the keys. That means you might have energy contracts running at two places at the same time for a short while. Not ideal, but it happens.

Moving in together

If you’re moving in with someone, you’ll only need one contract between the two of you. If you’re moving into your partner’s home, cancel your own contract. If you’re moving to a new place together, pick which contract stays and which one goes. Just remember, cancelling a fixed contract early could come with a fee. Something to keep in mind before making the switch.

Second homes and vacation rentals

Got a second home or planning to rent one out? You can’t use one contract for both properties. You’ll need a separate contract for each address. Most landlords let tenants arrange their own energy, but you can also include it in the rent if you prefer. If it’s a vacation home, things work a bit differently. Many holiday parks include energy in their service costs, especially for gas or heating. But if your vacation home has its own power connection, you’ll need to arrange a separate contract usually just for electricity.

Leaving the Netherlands

If you’re moving abroad, you’ll have to cancel your Dutch energy contract. Suppliers here only cover Dutch addresses. Some companies charge a cancellation fee, but others make an exception if you’re leaving the country. Always worth checking the fine print.

Attending a Dutch wedding? This is what you need to know

If you’ve received an invite to a Dutch wedding, you’re probably very excited to attend! Keep in mind that you might be introduced to funny (and slightly odd) traditions that you’ve never seen before. If you want to show up well-prepared: we got you! We asked Sarah Glasbergen, founder of ThePerfectWedding.nl, to tell us about some unusual things you might notice during these events.

“Overall, Dutch weddings are pretty similar to those of other western countries”, Sarah says. “Chances are you’ll start with a ceremony, after which you can expect a dinner, and of course a party to seal the deal!”

Besides, most couples will give you an idea of the schedule on the invitation. More often than not, the invites also include a dress code and gift preferences.

Guest lists

“Don’t be surprised if your invite only includes a certain part of the day”, Sarah mentions. “This tradition of splitting guests comes partly from practical reasons. Most Dutch couples pay for their own wedding and inviting everyone to every part would be a bit much.” The most common options are:

Day guests
Day guests include close family and friends, who are invited to the ceremony, reception, dinner and party. These are usually the most important people in the couple’s lives and get to share the whole day with them.

Evening guests
Other friends, extended family and close colleagues often only join for the party in the evening. This allows the couple to celebrate with a larger group, without having to accommodate everyone the whole day.

Reception guests
In some cases, people are only invited to the reception. This is a quick chance to congratulate the couple. Reception guests are often acquaintances, neighbours or colleagues that the couple aren’t as close with, but they still want to include in their special day.

Dutch wedding traditions you might spot

When moving to the Netherlands, you’ll be confronted with all sorts of (quirky) traditions. “The same applies to Dutch weddings”, Sarah says.

Guest performances & playful games
Friends and family love to surprise the couple with homemade performances, from songs and sketches to heartfelt speeches. Dutch weddings often feature playful games too, like the classic ‘Mr. & Mrs.’ quiz… or even a round of sjoelen, a traditional shuffleboard game!

One favorite among Dutch wedding traditions? The ‘Alfabet’ speech! Where guests take turns sharing a word, story, or joke about the couple for every letter of the alphabet. “It’s often a mix of genuine praise and good-natured teasing”, Sarah explains. “And yes… it can take a while!”

Wedding parades & boats
If you’re a day guest, you might witness the ‘bruidsstoet’. A festive car parade honking its way from the bride’s house to the venue. “It’s a cheerful tradition, with decorated cars and lots of honking”, Sarah tells us.

And in canal cities like Amsterdam or Leiden, you might even see the couple arrive by boat. Literally ‘stepping into the wedding boat’ (in het huwelijksbootje stappen). Both a tradition and a Dutch expression for getting married.

The ‘ceremoniemeester’
Forget the typical Best Man or Maid of Honour. In the Netherlands, the ceremoniemeester is the go-to person for organizing the day, keeping things running smoothly, and often leading games or speeches. “The ceremoniemeester keeps everything on track! From the schedule to the surprises”, Sarah says.

Bitterballen
Who needs fancy canapés when you’ve got bitterballen? “They’re the ultimate Dutch party snack, nobody can resist them,” Sarah says. Don’t be surprised to see guests in their chicest outfits casually dipping these crispy meatballs in mustard!

Gifting
When it comes to wedding gifts, Dutch couples often keep things practical. It’s quite common for them to ask for money instead of traditional presents and no, this isn’t seen as rude at all!

“In the Netherlands, giving money as a wedding gift is completely normal”, Sarah explains. “Couples often use it for their honeymoon, something for their home, or simply to save for the future.”

If the couple prefers money, you’ll usually spot a subtle hint on the invitation, like a small envelope symbol.

And if they do have a gift registry? Go for it! Dutch couples appreciate guests sticking to their wishes. Unsure what to give? Asking a close friend or family member of the couple is always a good idea.

Ready to attend

By this time, you’re probably either very excited to attend or feeling a bit sceptical about all these unique traditions.

“Either way, no need to worry”, Sarah says. “By keeping an open mind, preparing well and embracing the ‘gezelligheid’, you’ll have no problem enjoying a beautiful Dutch celebration!”

Can’t get enough of Dutch weddings and hoping to plan one of your own? You can find information about traditions, fun ideas, bridal stores, planningtools and wedding venues on ThePerfectWedding.nl.

Live like a local, love the city – discover Eendracht Residence

Welcome to Eendracht Residence – a unique living concept in the heart of vibrant Rotterdam. This former townhouse at number 40 has been transformed into ten stunning city apartments ranging from 51 m² to 122 m². Whether you’re drawn to the Rotterdam skyline or the iconic Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen, each apartment offers exceptional views and a high-end finish.

The residences are fully finished and turn-key. Think oak floors, luxurious bathrooms, stylish wall finishes and Siemens-equipped kitchens – all ready for you to move in right away. Plus: every home is energy-efficient, thanks to individual heat pumps and solar panels.

Step outside and the city is at your feet – the Witte de Withstraat, museums, shops, parks, and public transport are all within walking distance.

Prices start from € 395,000.
Visit www.eendrachtsresidence.nl and start your new life in Rotterdam.

Location Highlight

Looking for the charm of city living with greenery right outside your door?
At Eendracht Residence, you get the best of both worlds.
Located on Rotterdam’s iconic Eendrachtsweg
10 luxurious apartments – available now

Interior / Turn-key Living

No need to paint, drill, or fix – just move right in.
Eendracht Residence features elegant oak floors, luxury bathrooms, a Siemens kitchen, and immaculate finishes.
Fully finished – ready to enjoy
Starting at € 395,000 (buyer costs)

Lifestyle Focus

Looking for a fresh start in a character-filled building with modern comfort?
Eendracht Residence blends city life, sustainability, and style in one unique address.
Stylish apartments in the heart of Rotterdam on Eendrachtsweg – close to everything that makes the city special
Learn more: www.eendrachtsresidence.nl

How Expats in the Netherlands Are Diversifying Their Digital Finances

The Netherlands has long been known for its financial savviness, and that mindset tends to rub off on newcomers, too. With a well-educated population and a steady stream of disposable income, people here—locals and expats alike—aren’t just chasing quick gains. Instead, they’re thinking a few steps ahead.

For expats living in the Netherlands, the local culture of long-term planning and asset control is shaping how they approach digital finance. Whether it’s branching out beyond traditional savings or exploring smart crypto strategies, today’s expats are diversifying with care. They’re not just storing wealth—they’re managing it with intent.

Crypto as a hedge and a diversification tool

Crypto isn’t just a hype train anymore—it’s become a permanent tab in many people’s finance apps. In the Netherlands, where tech adoption is pretty seamless, expats find it easy to get started. Dutch-based exchanges like Bitvavo make the onboarding feel local, secure, and hassle-free. That sense of familiarity helps lower the barrier.

Most expats aren’t going all-in. It’s not about flipping coins for fast gains—it’s about holding Bitcoin, Ethereum, or a few stablecoins alongside traditional investments. Diversification is the goal, and crypto just adds another layer to the mix. It gives people exposure to something different, which can be valuable in uncertain times.

You see, even within crypto, diversification matters. A solid portfolio isn’t built on one token alone. While the bulk of holdings might sit in established assets, there’s growing interest in setting aside a small portion for early opportunities like a crypto presale. It’s a calculated risk, not a gamble—and for many, that’s enough to keep things interesting without jeopardizing long-term plans.

From savings to stocks – broader investment horizons

Once expats settle into the Dutch system, saving is just the starting point. Banks here don’t just hold your money—they give you options. It’s pretty common for your banking app to show you how to start investing in stocks or ETFs, right next to your balance. It’s integrated into the system in a way that feels less intimidating and more like the natural next step.

ETFs and index funds are especially appealing here, mostly because of the low fees and the ease of getting started. People are less concerned with chasing the hottest stock and more focused on building something steady over time. The Dutch approach to finance is all about stability, and that attitude carries over into the way expats invest. No get-rich-quick energy—just small, smart moves with long-term payoff.

Local investing apps like BUX Zero are making everything even more accessible. The interface is clean, the fees are transparent, and the process is completely in English, which makes it easy for anyone new to the Netherlands to jump in. A few taps on your phone, and suddenly, you’re a shareholder. There’s no friction, and that matters a lot.

Real estate interest is growing – even among non-residents

In cities like Amsterdam, Utrecht, and even Eindhoven, rent prices have a way of getting your attention. So it’s not surprising that some expats eventually start looking into buying. It’s not just about escaping rent—it’s about turning that monthly expense into something with long-term value. And yes, even non-residents are getting curious.

Not everyone wants (or can afford) a whole house. That’s where things like REITs and partial property ownership start to come into play. These investment paths let expats participate in the real estate market without needing to drop a massive down payment. It’s a way to get exposure to the housing market without being tied to a specific address.

Dutch mortgage rules are surprisingly accessible for expats under the right conditions. If you’ve got a long-term work contract and a BSN number, some banks will take you seriously. It might still involve a mountain of paperwork, but it’s not off-limits. That changes the conversation completely—from “maybe one day” to “maybe this year.”

Currency diversification and international transfers

For most expats, income flows in euros, but life rarely stays that simple. Many are still tied to another currency, whether it’s paying off a loan back home, supporting family, or just keeping an eye on their old savings. So holding funds in USD or GBP isn’t unusual—it’s a way to stay flexible.

Tools like Wise and Revolut have become staples. You can send money between countries without the bank fees, and you see the exchange rate up front. These platforms fit perfectly with the expat lifestyle—everything’s digital, transparent, and fast. That kind of control over timing and cost makes a big difference.

During periods of euro volatility, some expats park part of their savings in other currencies. It’s not a massive move—it’s more like a hedge. If the euro dips and you’ve got a bit of USD tucked away, you’re less exposed. It’s a financial cushion, and it offers peace of mind.

Final words

Expats in the Netherlands aren’t just spending smarter—they’re thinking smarter. Surrounded by a culture of structure and long-term planning, they’re embracing tools that help them take control of their digital finances. From stocks to crypto and everything in between, diversification is not just a phrase – it’s a strategy.

Internet on all your devices with a prepaid eSIM

Let’s be real, constantly switching SIM cards, relying on slow or sketchy public WiFi, or turning your phone into a hotspot every time you need internet it gets old fast. It’s clunky, it drains your battery and let’s not even talk about how often it just doesn’t work when you really need it. Whether you’re living in the Netherlands full-time or just visiting for a few days, you just want a connection that works, without the hassle. That’s where SimWallet comes in. One app, one setup and you’re online in minutes no stress, no surprises.

What is SimWallet?

It’s basically a digital SIM you activate through an app. No plastic card, no visits to a store, no endless forms. Just open the app, choose how long you want internet a day or a month and boom, you’re online. An prepaid esim for the Netherlands works on smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, even laptops, as long as they support eSIM. There are three options at the moment. You can grab a pass for one day or 30 days with speeds up to 100 Mbit/s, or go for a slightly slower 20 Mbit/s option if you’re looking to save a bit. You’ll get unlimited data, with a fair use cap at 20GB per day. Hit that? No worries, your speed drops to 1 Mbit/s, but you won’t pay extra.

Who’s it for?

Got a family visiting from abroad and they need the internet for a few days? SimWallet’s perfect. Maybe you’re going to a festival and your own provider has no coverage, but SimWallet does. It’s also great for everyday moments. Like your kids watching videos during a road trip they get their own connection, and your data stays yours. Or trying 5G on your smartwatch while running. Or just doing some work or study at a café without trusting the free WiFi.

Set it up once, use it when you need it

The app is super straightforward. You can activate an eSIM directly on your phone, or generate a QR code to use it on another device. You can even keep multiple eSIMs in one app. That’s where the name comes from. It’s like a digital wallet full of SIM cards. Once the eSIM is installed, it stays active on your device for at least three months. You don’t have to use it right away, you can wait a week, or even longer, then just top it up when you’re ready. Want another one? Just set up a new eSIM. It’s all done through the app, available on Android and iOS.

No long term contract

There’s no contract. No “oops, extra fees.” No waiting around. You pay upfront using iDEAL or a credit card. Apple Pay and Google Pay are on the way too, but not quite there yet. It’s important to know: SimWallet is data only. So don’t expect phone calls or texts. But that also means it’s way more flexible. Use it when you want, on whichever device you like. Going on a trip? Need a backup connection? Want your own internet bubble on the go? SimWallet’s got you.

Grocery shopping in the Netherlands: here’s what you need to know

When moving to a new country, there’s a lot to get used to. Like different layouts in grocery stores, or shops not stocking your favourite snacks from back home. However, it can also be very exciting to try out all the new products and explore all the aisles with unknown goods. Are you moving to The Netherlands and want to know what to expect on your first shopping trip? In this article, we’ll tell you all about it.

Dutch supermarkets: does size matter?

If you’re coming from areas like North America, Canada or Australia, the size of Dutch supermarkets might surprise you. In both very rural and urban environments, the supermarkets tend to be quite compact. But don’t worry: the space they do have is used very efficiently, meaning you’ll still be able to find most of the things you need.

Between different supermarket chains, the products might vary. Haven’t found what you’re looking for? It’s worth to give another nearby supermarket a try, as they might have the products you’ve been searching for. There’s also bigger supermarkets that you can often find in more suburban areas.

No grocery store nearby?

If there’s no grocery store nearby, or you just don’t have the time to go visit one yourself, there are lots of options to get groceries delivered to your house. For example, if you search for grocery delivery in Amsterdam, you’ll find a variety of options. At some, you’ll have to order a couple of days ahead. At others, they could be at your door within an hour after placing your order!

Opening hours

Want to know when you can visit a Dutch grocery store? Opening hours are mostly pretty similar. Most stores will open early in the morning (around 7:00 or 8:00) and close later on in the evening, often at 21:00 or 22:00.

Grocery shops in more rural areas might close a little bit earlier, often shutting down around 18:00. In these environments, it’s also normal for grocery stores to have even more limited opening hours or to not open at all on Sundays and certain holidays.

Good to know

As an expat, there’s a couple of things you might not expect when first shopping at your local grocery store. Here’s a few examples that are good to keep in mind:

You have to pay for a plastic bag. This is often between 50 cents and 1 euro, but this can still add up overtime. This is why a lot of Dutch people bring their own reusable bags.
You might not be able to pay with credit card. This is not the case for all grocery stores, but some still do not accept (foreign) credit cards. For these places, you’ll need cash or a Dutch bank account.
There’s no liquor in Dutch grocery stores. You can find wine, beer and other low-percentage alcoholic drinks, but if you are looking for something stronger, you’ll have to visit a liquor store.
You can (and should) return your plastic bottles. Most of the bottles you buy at a Dutch supermarket can be returned, and you can even earn some money back from it. A perk for your wallet, and the environment!

New experiences

While visiting Dutch supermarkets can be confusing at first, you’ll quickly get the hang of how things work. Make sure to look up the opening times near you and explore the aisles to see if they have all the products you’re looking for. You’ll be a regular shopper in no time!

The Essential Guide to Using a Mortgage Calculator for Expats in the Netherlands

Purchasing a home in the Netherlands can be an exciting milestone, especially for expats adapting to a new country. To simplify your journey, using a mortgage calculator is an essential step. This invaluable tool, conveniently hosted by our partners at Hanno for ease of access, provides clear and practical insights into your financial options.

Why an Expat-Friendly Mortgage Calculator Matters

As an expat, you might face unique hurdles such as navigating different banking systems, understanding local financial jargon, and assessing your financial eligibility clearly. A mortgage calculator designed specifically for expats simplifies these complexities, helping you quickly determine:

Your borrowing capacity
Monthly mortgage payments
Impact of different interest rates and loan durations

Simple Steps for Quick Results

Using Hanno’s externally hosted mortgage calculator is straightforward and efficient. You only need to input a few essential details:

Your annual income
Desired property price
Preferred loan repayment duration

With these inputs, you instantly receive a detailed overview, including:

Estimated total mortgage amount available to you
Monthly repayments, clearly split into principal and interest
A quick glance at how varying loan conditions influence your payments

Advantages of Our Mortgage Calculator

User-Friendly Interface: Specifically crafted for expats, ensuring clarity and ease of use.
Immediate Financial Insights: Gain a rapid understanding of your mortgage options without any financial guesswork.
Flexible Decision-Making: Adjust different scenarios effortlessly to discover the best mortgage option tailored to your situation.

Empower Your Home Buying Experience

At every step, our aim is to make your home-buying process smooth and understandable. With Hanno’s mortgage calculator, you can confidently approach the Dutch housing market, fully informed and ready to make well-founded financial decisions.

Ready to find your perfect home?

Understanding Mortgage Calculators in the Netherlands: How to Secure the Best Mortgage Offer

Buying a home in the Netherlands involves careful financial planning, especially for expats navigating the local property market. A crucial tool in this process is a mortgage calculator, which provides valuable insights into your financial possibilities and helps you find the best mortgage offer. At Hanno, we emphasize empowering homebuyers with clarity and confidence, starting with understanding how mortgage calculators work.

What Does a Dutch Mortgage Calculator Consider?

A mortgage calculator in the Netherlands typically evaluates several critical factors to estimate the amount you can borrow, your monthly payments, and potential interest rates. These include:

Income and Employment Stability: Your annual income, type of employment contract, and income stability significantly influence your borrowing capacity. Mortgage calculators take into account fixed employment, freelance income, or temporary contracts differently, reflecting lenders’ criteria.
Debts and Financial Obligations: Existing debts or financial obligations, such as student loans, car loans, or credit card payments, reduce your potential mortgage amount. Mortgage calculators factor these obligations into your borrowing capacity.
Interest Rate and Mortgage Term: Calculators allow you to input expected mortgage interest rates in the Netherlands and terms (e.g., 10, 20, or 30 years). These details help determine your monthly payments and the total cost of your mortgage over time.
Property Value and Purchase Price: The calculator assesses the loan-to-value (LTV) ratio, comparing your desired mortgage amount with the property’s market value. This evaluation affects your required down payment and possible mortgage products.
Personal Circumstances: Specific circumstances, like residency status or whether you’re an expat or Dutch national, can impact lending terms. Mortgage calculators tailored for expats typically account for these nuances.

How a Mortgage Calculator Helps You Secure the Best Offer

Using a mortgage calculator effectively is essential to finding the most favorable mortgage offer. Here’s how:

Clear Financial Overview: Mortgage calculators provide a precise understanding of your financial capabilities, enabling informed decision-making regarding affordable property choices.
Comparison of Scenarios: By adjusting variables like interest rates, mortgage terms, or down payments, you can easily compare different financial scenarios to find the most cost-effective and manageable mortgage option.
Negotiation Power: With accurate knowledge of your borrowing capacity and financial limits, you gain confidence and leverage in negotiating better terms and interest rates with mortgage providers.
Time-saving: Calculators streamline the initial mortgage exploration process, quickly narrowing down your choices to suitable lenders and financial products, thus saving valuable time.

Hanno’s Tailored Mortgage Calculator Service

At Hanno, we understand that expats face unique challenges in securing mortgages in the Netherlands. Our specialized mortgage calculator incorporates specific factors relevant to expat situations, offering personalized insights and clear, actionable results.

Additionally, our experienced advisors use these calculations to assist you further, interpreting results in detail, and guiding you through the next steps in your home-buying journey.

Getting Started with Confidence

Whether you’re just beginning your property search or ready to finalize your dream home purchase, using a mortgage calculator is an invaluable step. It equips you with critical financial insights, streamlining your decision-making process and ensuring you secure the best possible mortgage offer.

Ready to explore your mortgage possibilities in the Netherlands? Reach out to Hanno’s specialist advisors today and use our tailored mortgage calculator to confidently take your next step toward homeownership.