Buying a Home in 2026: 10 Tips for a Successful Purchase

It’s very tempting to start looking right away, but the first step is to consult your bank or an independent advisor. Only once you know how much you can borrow and how much of your own money you’ll be putting in will you know which price range you’re realistically in. This will save you from disappointment and prevent you from scheduling viewings for homes that are out of your price range.

Please note that you must cover the buyer’s costs yourself. Transfer tax, notary fees, appraisal, and consulting fees can quickly add up to five to six percent of the purchase price. If you are under thirty-five years of age, you may be eligible for an exemption from transfer tax under certain conditions, which significantly reduces the amount of your own funds required.

Make two lists. The first should include the things you won’t compromise on: the number of bedrooms, the maximum commute time to work, and an outdoor space. The second should include the features that would make the place more pleasant but aren’t deal-breakers. Without making that distinction, you’ll end up comparing every home to an ideal that doesn’t exist.

In practice, we see that buyers who have clearly defined criteria find a home more quickly. They view fewer properties, but their searches are more targeted. What’s more, with a clear profile, you’re more likely to be notified as soon as a suitable property comes on the market—sometimes even before it’s listed online.

A sleekly styled home may look attractive, but it says little about its structural condition. Look for cracks in the masonry, moisture stains in the attic, the age of the boiler, and the condition of the grout. In pre-war buildings in The Hague, the ground floor is a recurring point of concern.

A structural inspection costs a few hundred euros and results in a report that includes a cost estimate for each defect. That report isn’t just for peace of mind—it’s also a bargaining tool. We routinely include an inspection as a condition precedent when the condition of the property warrants it.

A buyer’s agent usually pays for themselves—not just in terms of price, but especially in terms of the terms and conditions and the risks you avoid. We know the neighborhoods, recent transactions, and the practices of the other real estate agencies we negotiate with. That saves time and prevents beginner’s mistakes.

Finally: give yourself permission to say no. There will always be another home. If you settle for a house out of exhaustion that isn’t really a good fit, you’ll still be paying for it years later. Take your time, stick to your limits, and make sure the purchase fits your life—not the other way around.