"There are clear seasonal effects on the Dutch housing market"
At Viisi, we like to be clear about what’s involved in taking out a mortgage. In this section, we address common misunderstandings and also highlight some unique facts. This way, you’ll know what to expect and can distinguish facts from fiction.
“There are clear seasonal effects on the Dutch housing market”
Looking to buy a home? You’re probably checking Funda.nl regularly. The number of available properties fluctuates daily, weekly, and monthly. But did you know there are apparent seasonal effects on the Dutch housing market? It’s not a myth—it’s a fact, as we can see in data provided to us by Walter Living. The number of homes for sale can fluctuate significantly depending on the time of year.
Understanding these seasonal trends can help you navigate the market strategically.
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Find out if you are qualifiedKey seasonal patterns in the Dutch housing market
Spring surge
Between February and March, there’s a sharp increase in homes hitting the market. On average, 24% more properties are listed in March compared to February.
Summer slump
During July and August—the peak vacation season—housing inventory drops. Compared to May and June, there are typically 15–25% fewer homes available for sale.
September spike
After the summer break, activity picks up fast. Between August and September, the number of new listings jumps by around 40%, a trend that can be seen consistently year after year.
Winter dip
December usually shows the lowest number of homes for sale—about 37% fewer listings compared to January, when the market picks up again after the holidays.
Emmely van Grinsven, a home-buying specialist at Walter Living, summarizes:
“You can see a wave-like pattern in housing supply. The market slows down in summer and around the holidays, but then picks up strongly in September or just after New Year’s.”
What causes the seasonal fluctuations in the Dutch housing market?
Seller preferences and the advice of real estate agents primarily drive the seasonal effects on the Dutch housing market.
Spring is ideal: Homes look more appealing in the sunshine than during the dark winter months.
Buyer psychology: Longer daylight and a fresh start in the new year often put buyers in a more optimistic frame of mind.
Holiday slowdown: In December, both buyers and sellers are often distracted by the holidays, which can delay transactions until spring.
Reinforced trends: If agents consistently advise clients not to list homes in the summer, the market becomes even quieter in that period.
These dynamics create a self-reinforcing cycle that shapes the seasonal rhythm of the Dutch housing market.
How to use this knowledge to your advantage
By understanding seasonal effects on the Dutch housing market, you can plan your home-buying journey more strategically and act quickly when opportunities arise.
Emmely van Grinsven offers this insight:
“If you find your dream home in the summer, you may face less competition. That can give you an edge and even help you get a better deal.”
Pro tips for acting fast
Know when listings appear: New ads on Funda.nl usually go live between 3:00 and 4:00 AM. Don’t rush to call the agent that early—but be ready to move first thing in the morning!
Prepare financially
- Use Viisi’s free mortgage calculator to see what you can borrow.
- Get your documents in order: A recent employer’s statement or a perspective statement can help you act fast. Check out this trick for more information.
- Consider bidding without financing conditions: This makes your offer more attractive, but carries financial risk. Viisi’s Bidding with Certainty solution lets you do this without the usual risk.
- A bright start is half the battle. Join our free webinar to learn everything you need to know before entering the Dutch housing market.
Do: Monitor housing supply even in slower months. Some sellers are under pressure to sell outside peak seasons, because they’ve already bought a new place or need to sell an inherited home quickly.
Don’t: Underestimate your chances. With the proper prep, you can often boost your mortgage capacity, sometimes more than you think.
FAQ: Seasonal effects on the Dutch housing market
What are the seasonal effects in the Dutch housing market?
Seasonal effects refer to the predictable fluctuations in housing supply and demand throughout the year, such as the spring surge or the winter dip.
When is the best time to buy a house in the Netherlands?
It depends. Spring and September offer more listings, but summer may offer better deals due to reduced competition.
Is the housing inventory lower in December in the Netherlands?
Yes, December typically has the lowest housing supply due to the holiday season.
Why does the housing supply drop in the summer?
Many people go on vacation, and real estate agents often advise against listing properties during these months, resulting in fewer new listings.
Can I benefit from buying during a slow season?
Absolutely. Less competition may lead to better negotiating power and pricing flexibility.
How do I prepare for buying in a hot market?
Get pre-approved, collect the necessary documents early, and be ready to act quickly, especially when listings surge.