For most people, buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions they’ll ever make. Fortunately, in the Netherlands there are several schemes and guarantees that can make the process easier and safer.

Some of these programs allow you to borrow more, reduce your monthly payments, or protect you from potential financial risks in the future. These benefits are especially useful for first-time buyers and those with a limited budget.

The NHG (Nationale Hypotheek Garantie) acts as a financial safety net for homeowners. If you take out a mortgage with NHG, you get more security. For example, if you're unable to pay your mortgage due to job loss or divorce, NHG can step in to help.

In addition, many lenders offer lower interest rates on NHG-backed mortgages, as it reduces their risk.
Note: There is a maximum purchase price to qualify for NHG — currently €450,000.

The Starter Loan is designed for people buying their first home who are just short of the amount needed to buy. It bridges the gap between your maximum mortgage and the purchase price.

This loan is attractive because:

• You don’t pay interest or repayments during the first three years.

• After three years, your income is reassessed to determine how much you can start repaying.

• It’s available for both newly built and existing homes.

The Starter Loan is offered through local municipalities and administered by SVn (Stimuleringsfonds Volkshuisvesting). Not all municipalities offer this scheme. You can check the SVn website to see if it’s available in your area.

Stimuleringsfonds Volkshuisvesting (SVn)

SVn is the organization behind many local buying and financing schemes. Municipalities, provinces, and the national government work with SVn to offer tailored solutions.

In addition to the Starter Loan, SVn also provides:

• Sustainability loans for energy-saving upgrades.
• Purchase subsidies for lower-income buyers.
• Residual debt loans or financing for home modifications.

SVn handles the application process, checks your information, and issues the loan if you meet the requirements.

These financial programs are especially helpful for:

• First-time buyers who can’t borrow enough through the bank

• Homebuyers with lower or middle incomes

• People looking to improve their home’s energy efficiency without enough savings

• Buyers who want more financial security and less risk

Whether you qualify depends on your income, the purchase price of the home, your borrowing capacity, and the policies of the municipality where you plan to buy.