Have you found a house that you like and have been invited for a viewing? Make sure you come prepared, so you are not overwhelmed in the moment and know what to look for. This article will help you inspecting a new property.

How to Inspect a Property

When you've found a house you like and are invited for a viewing, come prepared. Here's what to look for:

1. Location

  • Assess the neighborhood: safety, parking, facilities, public transport, schools
  • Walk around to get a feel for the area

2. Exterior

  • Check the roof condition
  • Examine window frames: material, paint condition, need for replacement
  • Note sun direction and outdoor spaces (garden/terrace)

3. Interior

  • Evaluate layout, room sizes, kitchen and bathroom conditions
  • Check walls, ceilings, windows, and doors
  • Look beyond current decor and furniture

4. Installations

  • Note heating and ventilation systems
  • Check electrical outlets
  • Ask about monthly heating and electricity costs

5. Sustainability

  • Check energy label
  • Look for insulation, double/triple glazing, solar panels, heat pumps

6. Get Professional Help

Consider hiring a purchasing real estate agent (aankoopmakelaar) to help evaluate the property and ask the right questions.

Additional Investigation

Buyer's Obligation

You're expected to investigate visible issues during the viewing. A purchasing agent can help spot these.

Seller's Obligation

Sellers must disclose known issues, but may not be aware of hidden problems.

Technical Inspection

Consider a technical inspection (bouwkundige keuring) for an independent assessment of the property's condition and future maintenance needs.

Special Clauses

Be aware of clauses in the purchase agreement like:

  • Old age clause
  • Non-occupancy clause

How to Negotiate with a Seller

  1. Develop a strategy based on market conditions and the seller's situation
  2. Consider factors beyond price: transfer date, movables, and dissolving conditions

Movables (Roerende Zaken)

Clearly agree on what's included in the sale to avoid later conflicts.

Dissolving Conditions (Ontbindende Voorwaarden)

Common conditions include:

  • Financing
  • Technical inspection
  • National Mortgage Guarantee (NHG)
  • Housing permit

Set these before making a bid to protect yourself.

Making a Bid

  1. Decide on your strategy and conditions
  2. Submit your bid clearly stating price and conditions
  3. Be prepared for a single blind bidding round or potential counter-offers

Remember:

  • The seller isn't obligated to sell, even if you meet the asking price
  • The asking price can change at any time
  • Other parties can make offers during negotiations

A purchasing real estate agent can be invaluable throughout this process, offering objective advice and knowledge of Dutch property buying rules.