Dutch Elections 2025: What expats need to know about housing and mortgages

Housing is the defining issue of the upcoming Dutch parliamentary elections on 29 October 2025.

Expats may not have the right to vote, but the political choices made in The Hague will directly affect life in the Netherlands, from rental supply and property prices to mortgage conditions and taxation.

Being informed helps you make smarter financial decisions, whether you’re renting, considering buying, or building long-term plans in the Netherlands.

Why the elections matter for expats

The Dutch housing market is already one of the tightest in Europe. Political decisions in the coming years could make it easier — or harder — for internationals to secure a place to live. Here are four areas to watch:

1. Housing supply & affordability 🏘️

  • Many parties promise to build more homes, but they differ on how.
  • Some emphasize government-led construction and stricter rent controls.
  • Others want to stimulate private developers and relax building rules.
  • Outcome: could influence both rental availability and house prices.

2. Mortgage rules 💶

  • Parties propose measures to support first-time buyers, such as better loan conditions or higher NHG limits.
  • While often targeted at Dutch citizens, changes in affordability criteria also affect expats applying for mortgages.
  • Tighter or looser borrowing standards can directly impact your ability to obtain a loan.

3. Taxes & deductions 📊

  • The future of the mortgage interest deduction remains a topic of debate.
  • Some parties propose tax changes for landlords or housing corporations.
  • Adjustments in Box 3 (wealth tax on savings and investments) could impact expats with assets in the Netherlands.

4. Sustainability & energy rules 🌱

  • Energy efficiency is a top priority.
  • Homeowners may face stricter requirements for energy labels.
  • Subsidies for renovations and sustainability measures may expand.
  • These shifts matter for both owners and renters: better isolation often means higher comfort but also an upfront investment.

The fundamental political question: Right or Market?

The housing debate begins with a philosophical divide:

👉 Is housing a fundamental right, similar to healthcare or education?
👉 Or is housing best managed as a market of supply and demand?

Some parties argue that only stronger government intervention can keep homes affordable and accessible. Others believe the market will solve the shortage if restrictions are reduced.

Where parties land on this spectrum influences their stance on rent regulation, mortgage conditions, and building policy.

What this means for expats

Although internationals cannot vote, the outcome of these elections will determine the direction of Dutch housing policy for the coming years. Practical consequences may include:

  • Rental options: stricter rent controls could limit supply in the free sector, while subsidies might improve affordability for some.
  • Property prices: building programs and market incentives will affect how fast supply can catch up with demand.
  • Mortgage access: easing or tightening lending criteria could open or close doors for expats looking to buy.
  • Taxes: changes in deductions, Box 3, or landlord levies may indirectly impact expats as buyers, renters, or investors.

At Viisi, we see it as our role to translate political developments into clear insights for internationals. That way, you don’t just hear about Dutch politics in the abstract — you understand what it means for your home, your mortgage, and your future.

Our approach

We’ve reviewed all election programs from parties currently represented in parliament. Over the coming weeks, we’ll share clear visuals and short summaries highlighting where they stand on housing and mortgages.

We don’t give voting advice; that’s a personal choice. But we do like to provide clarity about how Dutch politics shapes the housing market.

Stay informed

Want to dive deeper?

👉 Read our complete analysis here (in Dutch)
👉 Follow Viisi Expats on LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube for updates.