Congratulations, your offer has been accepted! But when does the home officially become yours? There are still a few steps to go through before you get the keys.

From offer to purchase agreement

The terms you’ve agreed are recorded in a written purchase agreement (koopovereenkomst). It sets out the purchase price, the transfer date, any conditions under which the agreement can be cancelled and the condition in which the property must be handed over.

In a typical residential purchase by a private buyer in the Netherlands, a written agreement is required for the sale to become binding. Verbal acceptance of your offer alone is insufficient.

The statutory cooling-off period

As a private buyer, you generally have a three-day statutory cooling-off period once you receive the purchase agreement signed by both parties. Specific legal rules determine how those days are counted.

Mortgage, valuation and deposit

Next, you arrange your financing and, if needed, a property valuation. Depending on the terms of the purchase agreement, you may also need to pay a security deposit or arrange a bank guarantee.

Final inspection and notary appointment

Shortly before the transfer, you’ll usually do a final walkthrough. This is your chance to check that the property is being handed over in the agreed condition.

You’ll then sign the deed of transfer and, if you’re taking out a mortgage, the mortgage deed at the notary’s office. Once ownership has legally transferred and you’ve received the keys, you can move in.

How does OZQUR support you?

Having your offer accepted is a big step. From there, OZQUR helps you keep track of the paperwork, deadlines and agreements involved in completing your purchase.

Has your offer been accepted? If you’d like help with the next steps, OZQUR can guide you from offer to key handover.

Yücel Samanci
Buying and selling agent at OZQUR Makelaardij, specialising in home-buying strategy, negotiations and guiding Dutch, Turkish and expat clients through the property process.