A notary when buying a house in the Netherlands

The role of a notary when buying a house

A notary is mandatory when you buy a house in the Netherlands — only a notary is legally authorised to transfer the property into your name. So whatever else happens during your purchase, the deal always passes through a notary's office. But what exactly does the notary do, and what do the notary fees cost? HuisAssist walks you through everything you need to know.

What does a notary cost when buying a house?

Notary fees are free-market rates (vrije tarieven), so they vary by notary and region — the hourly rate is around €105, but most quote a fixed price per deed. When you buy a home, the main notary costs are:

• Property transfer deed (leveringsakte): around €600 to €1,600 — this is what puts the house in your name
• Mortgage deed (hypotheekakte): around €500 to €1,200 if you buy with a mortgage arranged through a mortgage advisor
• Purchase agreement (koopovereenkomst): around €600 to €1,200 if you have a notary draw it up

On top of the notary fees you'll also pay 2% transfer tax (overdrachtsbelasting) on the home's value if you're buying a home to live in yourself (starters aged 18–34 may be exempt under a value limit, investors pay 8%). Only the mortgage-deed costs are tax-deductible. Because rates differ so much, it's always worth comparing a few quotes — see the full notary costs overview.

Tasks of a notary

A notary, when buying a property, has several tasks. Among them:

• Transfer of ownership: The notary ensures that the legal transfer of ownership is carried out correctly. This includes drafting and verifying legal documents such as the purchase agreement and the deed of delivery.
• Research and Verification: The notary conducts extensive research in areas that have legal consequences, such as mortgages or other legal issues that may hinder the transfer of ownership. This includes checking public records and land registers.
• Money flows: The notary manages the financial transactions between buyer and seller, ensuring that costs and duties are paid and oversees the proper payment of taxes and duties.
• Verification Identity: The notary verifies the identity of the parties involved to prevent fraud and ensure that all parties are legitimate.
• Legal Advice: Besides facilitating the transaction, a notary can provide legal advice on all aspects of the property transaction and closing the deal. If you don't speak Dutch fluently, you may need to hire a translator.

Advantages of a notary when buying a house

Not only is a notary mandatory, but using a notary when buying a property has many advantages:

• Legal certainty: The notary ensures that the property transfer is carried out legally and by applicable laws and regulations.
• Documentation: The notary ensures accurate and legally valid documentation, which is essential for future sales or transfers.
• Problem-solving: If legal conflicts arise, the notary can help find solutions and mediate.
• Trust: The notary acts as a third party that protects the interests of both parties and promotes a fair transaction.

In short, a notary is an indispensable professional when buying a property. Their expertise ensures a smooth and legally correct transfer of ownership, allowing you to enjoy your new home with confidence.

Frequently asked questions

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