Less zigzagging, more homes: how we move forward

Meanwhile, limiting mortgage interest tax relief (the Dutch rule that lets homeowners deduct mortgage interest from taxable income) is back on the political agenda. Exploring that option isn’t a bad idea, but do it predictably and in phases, with long transition periods. That avoids unnecessary shocks to confidence and monthly costs.

Everyone is calling for more affordable homes, understandably. But “affordable” isn’t magic: if rent or sale prices sit below the real cost of building, there’s a gap. You close that gap either with extra public funding or with lower land and construction costs (faster, more industrialised building, less hassle). If we don’t share that bill fairly, projects stall and housing output drops.

What does work is consistent, long-term policy. Lock in, for twenty years, where, what and how much we build, including the mix of price segments and basic standards. Speed up permitting and standardise where possible. That gives housing associations, municipalities and developers certainty, and certainty produces homes.

So what can you do now as an expat buyer or homeowner in the Netherlands? Calculate both your gross and net monthly costs, including scenarios if tax rules change, together with one of our advisers. Already own a home? Focus on what you can control: improve your energy performance and keep maintenance in shape.