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Netherlands – Finding Property to Buy

Popular Estate Agencies

  • Makelaarij
  • ERA
  • Engel & Völkers
  • JLL
  • Colliers International
  • CBRE
  • BVA Auctions

Qualifications and Licenses

for Estate Agents

In the Netherlands, estate agents must have a real estate agent license, which requires passing a national exam. They must also adhere to professional standards and codes of ethics set by the Dutch Association of Real Estate Brokers and Valuers (NVM).

Estate Agent Fees

Estate agents typically charge a commission based on the sale price of the property, usually ranging from 1-2.5% of the sale price. The exact amount may vary depending on the agent, the location and the type of property. Some agents also charge additional fees for advertising, photography, or marketing services.

Alternatives to Estate Agents for Finding Properties for Sale


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  • Online property portals such as Funda.nl, Pararius.nl and Huislijn.nl
  • Local newspapers and magazines, such as the Parool, NRC, and AD
  • Word of mouth and networking through expat groups and social media
  • Directly contacting property developers and owners for sale-by-owner listings.

Use of Buyer’s Agents

The use of buyer’s agents is not very common in the Netherlands. However, some agents offer both buying and selling services, and may provide a buyer’s agent service for an additional fee. A license is not required for a buyer’s agent in the Netherlands. The fee for a buyer’s agent service may vary, but usually ranges from 1-2% of the purchase price.

Organizations for Foreign Property Buyers

  • Nederlandse Vereniging van Makelaars (Dutch Association of Real Estate Brokers and Valuers, NVM)
  • Vereniging Nederlandse Bedrijfsruimte Adviseurs (Dutch Association of Business Space Advisors, VBO)
  • Dutch Umbrella Organization for Real Estate Companies (Nederlands Verenigingsplatform voor Makelaars in Vastgoed, NVM-VPFM)

These organizations offer support and information for foreign property buyers, including a list of licensed estate agents, legal and tax advice, and information on the Dutch property market.


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