The Netherlands has long attracted the attention of luxury investors due to its stable economy, high standard of living and strategic location in Europe. However, success in this market requires not only capital, but also a deep understanding of local peculiarities. In this exclusive Forbes guide, we will tell you how to maximize your investment in real estate in the Netherlands, highlight the best regions, provide analytics on returns and advice from experts.

Why the Netherlands is one of the top hubs for real estate investors

1. Stability and prospects of the market
The Netherlands is among the countries with the lowest risks for investors. Government policy is aimed at supporting the economy and encouraging international business. There are no sharp price fluctuations typical for other real estate markets, which makes this country an ideal choice for long-term investments.
Price Growth    : Over the past five years, the cost of luxury housing in Amsterdam has increased by 8-12% per year, outpacing even markets such as London or Paris.
Rent Income: The average rental income from luxury properties is 3-5% per annum, and when renting to short-term tenants, income can be as high as 7%.

2. Cosmopolitan atmosphere and the international community
Due to its status as the business and cultural center of Europe, the Netherlands attracts expats and entrepreneurs from all over the world. This creates a high demand for luxury apartments, private residences and commercial real estate, especially in cities of international importance such as Amsterdam, The Hague and Rotterdam.

3. Environmental friendliness and comfort
The Netherlands is one of the most advanced countries in sustainable construction. Investors have access to energy-efficient projects that not only meet modern environmental standards, but also become an important competitive advantage in the rental market.

Regional analysis: Where to invest

Amsterdam: The capital for elite investors
Amsterdam remains the undisputed leader in terms of attractiveness for international investors. It is home to major financial and cultural institutions, as well as prestigious residential complexes.
Elite districts: Jordaan , Oud-Zuid, Grachtengordel (canals). Here you will find historic mansions, which are in high demand among the world's celebrities.
Average price of luxury housing: €1.2-€3 million for apartments and €3-€7 million for houses overlooking the canal.

The Hague: Political and maritime center
Home to international courts and embassies, The Hague attracts investors looking for prestige and convenience. Its proximity to the sea makes it a particularly popular location for families.
Special feature: Exclusive residences near diplomatic quarters.
Average price of premium housing: €800,000-€2.5 million.

Rotterdam: City of the Future
This dynamic metropolis is famous for its architectural projects and the largest port in Europe. There is a growing demand for commercial real estate and high-class apartments in new residential complexes.
Investment attractiveness: High rental income from commercial space - up to 6%.
Average price for premium apartments: €700,000-€1.5 million.

Friesland: Tranquility and seclusion
For those looking for something different, the northern regions of the country offer luxury villas in the countryside. An excellent choice for private investors seeking privacy.

Financial and legal aspects for foreign investors

Investing in the Netherlands is accessible to foreigners, but requires an understanding of key nuances:
Transfer tax: 2% for residential properties, 8% for commercial properties.
Mortgage loans: Available to non-residents but require high financial transparency.
Legal verification: Transactions go through a notary, which guarantees their transparency.
 

Mortgage and financing: How to manage capital effectively

For wealthy investors, the purchase of real estate is often associated with the competent use of financial instruments. In the Netherlands, banks offer mortgages for foreign nationals, but the terms depend on a number of factors.
Key features of mortgages for non-residents

• Interest rate: For foreign investors, rates average 3.5-5% per annum, depending on credit rating and down payment.
• Down payment: Usually 10 to 30% of the value of the property is required. High liquidity of the property allows to reduce collateral requirements.
• Documents: Proof of income (from resident or other country). Financial history, including bank statements. Availability of assets that can be used as collateral.
• Mortgage consultants: Services of specialized brokers allow you to reduce the time for preparation of documents and select the best bank.

Case: Efficient use of mortgages
A German investor purchased a €1.2 million office building in Rotterdam using a €600,000 loan. The bank provided favorable terms due to the investor's assets in Europe. The result was a combination of rental income and an annual increase in property value of 6%.

How to choose a real estate object: Tips from experts
Selecting real estate is a strategic move that should take into account the investor's goals, investment time horizon, and expected returns.

Luxury housing in cities
Who it's suitable for: For investors looking for stable capital growth.
Specialty: High demand among expat tenants working for international companies.
Tip: Check properties for a Class A energy certificate - it increases rental and sales values.

Commercial real estate
Who is suitable for: Investors with a focus on high rental income.
Specialty: Office buildings and retail space yield up to 6-7% per annum.
Tip: Choose properties in neighborhoods where infrastructure projects are planned.

Real estate under construction
Who     is suitable: For those who are willing to wait 1-3 years for increased returns.
Special: The value of the property may increase by 10-20% by the time construction is completed.
Tip: Research the builder and project rating carefully.

Taxation peculiarities: What is important for investors to know

It is important for wealthy investors not only to choose the right property, but also to minimize tax costs. The Netherlands has a taxation system that favors long-term investments.

Property transfer tax

•         For residential property, 2% of the value.
•         For commercial properties, 8%.

Annual taxes

•         Municipal tax (it depends on the region and type of real estate). The average rate for elite properties is 0.1-0.2% of the market value.

Exemptions and exemptions

•         Tax credits are available for energy efficient buildings.
•         Owners of properties rented out for more than 3 years may qualify for a reduced tax rate.

Real Estate Price Dynamics: Capital Growth and Returns

In recent decades, the Dutch real estate market has shown steady growth, making it one of the most attractive in Europe. This applies to both the residential segment and commercial real estate. The main drivers of growth include a stable economy, growing demand among expats and limited land resources.

Average annual growth in value

Elite housing: In the central districts of Amsterdam and The Hague, price growth reaches 8-12% per year, well above the European average.
Commercial real estate: In Rotterdam and Utrecht, the value of office buildings is increasing by 6-9% per year due to infrastructure development and an increasing number of tenants.
New Buildings: Projects under construction show a 10-20% increase in value upon completion.

Comparison with other markets
In terms of stability and profitability, the Netherlands is ahead of such popular destinations as France and Germany. For example, in Amsterdam the increase in the value of luxury housing in 2023 amounted to 11%, while in Paris - about 7%.

Success Stories: Real Investor Case Studies

Case 1: Luxury housing in the center of Amsterdam
A UAE investor purchased a historic canal mansion in the Grachtengordel neighborhood for €5.5 million. After three years, the property has increased in value by 22%, and renting it out has brought in an additional €300,000 over that period.
Lesson: Buying luxury real estate in central Amsterdam neighborhoods not only preserves capital, but also provides high passive income.
 

Case 2: Commercial building in Rotterdam
A Swiss entrepreneur invested in an office building for €1.8 million. In five years, the property generated rental income of €600,000 and its market value rose to €2.4 million.
Lesson: Investing in commercial real estate in strategic areas of the city allows you to combine stable income with capital appreciation.
 

Case 3: New building in Utrecht
An Australian couple invested €400,000 during the construction phase in an apartment in a developing area of Utrecht. Two years later, the property was already valued at €480,000, and short-term rentals were yielding 6.5% per annum.
Lesson: New buildings in active neighborhoods can be great short-term investments.

Strategies for wealthy investors

    1.    Portfolio diversification
Divide your capital between luxury housing, commercial real estate and new buildings. This will minimize risks and maximize returns.
    2.    Long-term investments
Given the stability of the Dutch market, holding properties for 5 years or more provides the greatest increase in value.
    3.    Focus on promising regions
Attention to developing areas, such as southern Amsterdam or the port areas of Rotterdam, can yield higher returns.

For real estate investors it is important not only to find an object, but also to receive first-class support at all stages of the transaction. VelesClub Int. offers exclusive services that will help turn your investment into the most comfortable and profitable process.
Investing in real estate in the Netherlands is not only preservation of capital, but also an opportunity to increase it significantly. Stable economy, prestigious market and international community make this country one of the best for investments.
Working with VelesClub Int., you get access to exclusive offers, personalized approach and security guarantees at every stage of the transaction. We will help you not just to buy an object, but to create a strategy that will become the basis for your financial growth.

Contact us today to learn more about the opportunities that come with investing in the Netherlands.