More Certainty for Expats With NHG

Buying a home in the Netherlands can be exciting, but also overwhelming, especially for expats who don’t know local mortgage rules. One thing that often raises questions is the National Mortgage Guarantee, known as NHG. This Dutch system is unique and can have an impact on the safety of your mortgage. In this blog, I explain what NHG is, how it works, and why it matters for expats looking to buy a sustainable home.

What Is NHG?

NHG is a government-supported guarantee that protects the homeowner and the lender. If you unexpectedly lose your income due to circumstances like unemployment, illness or divorce, and are no longer able to pay your mortgage, NHG can step in. It offers a financial safety net by potentially covering the remaining debt if the house must be sold. This prevents buyers, especially expats without a local support system from facing long-term financial stress.

Who Can Qualify?

NHG is available only for houses below a specific price limit. In 2025, the NHG limit is €435,000, or €461,100 with energy-saving improvements. This means you may borrow more if your home becomes more energy efficient.

To qualify, you must buy within the price limit, meet Dutch borrowing regulations and live in the home.

Why NHG Matters for Expats?

NHG mortgages usually come with lower interest rates. Over the full mortgage term, this can save thousands of euros. Also, NHG provides strong protection if your financial situation changes. For example, many expats work on temporary contracts. NHG can offer reassurance when long-term job security is uncertain.

NHG also promotes sustainability. Expats can finance insulation, solar panels or heat pumps through NHG-approved borrowing.

My Vision as an Advisor

My approach is to help expat clients understand the rules and how NHG fits their plans fort he future. I believe that affordable, low-risk borrowing, forms the foundation of a good life in a new country.

Rather than selecting the lowest interest rate, I look at future income, career plans and how long you intend to stay in the Netherlands.

What This Means for You

NHG may be an excellent choice if you value:

• Lower monthly costs
• Financial security
• Protection against residual debt
• Greener, energy-efficient housing

However, NHG is not ideal if you are buying above the price limit or if you want more flexibility.

In practice, I often advise expats to consider NHG as part of a broader financial plan that includes savings, insurance and long-term housing goals.

NHG offers expats a combination of safety, affordability and sustainability. If you want to buy a home, I encourage you to explore whether NHG goes witth your goals. With the right guidance, you can make confident decisions and build a secure financial future in the Netherlands.