Netherlands: selling property
The full process in 5 steps: the taxes you pay, what each stage costs and how long it takes (~60 days on average). Free guide, no account needed.
Process steps
1
Get the energy certificate
⏱ 3-7 days · 💰 €150-300
2
Sign the written purchase contract
⏱ 1 day · 💰 free
3
Buyer 3-day cooling-off period
⏱ 3 days · 💰 free
4
Final deed at Notary
⏱ 4-8 weeks · 💰 notary fees
5
Register in Land Registry
⏱ same day · 💰 included
Taxes & fees
capital gains
none on a private sale
transfer tax
2% own use / 8% investor — paid by the buyer
agency fees
1-2%
energy certificate
€150-300
⚠️ What costs you money if you miss it
There is no tax on the gain when a private person sells. The Netherlands taxes the asset every year instead (box 3), not the profit at the end. Coming from Spain, France or Italy, this is the biggest single difference.
The buyer pays the transfer tax, and the rate decides who can afford you. From 1 Jan 2026: 8% for an investor (down from 10.4%), 2% for someone who will live there, 0% for a first-time buyer under 35 up to €555,000.
A handshake is not a sale here. The contract has to be in writing, and after signing the buyer has 3 days to walk away without giving a reason or paying anything.
⚠️ Informational purposes only. Always consult a licensed local lawyer.
Check what a property here is actually worthOpen the free valuation