What Changes in 2025 If You Buy, Own, or Rent a Home

More Lending Options and New Housing Rules in 2025
The year 2025 brings significant changes to the housing market. First-time buyers, temporary workers, and single-income households will benefit from improved mortgage options, while tenants will see enhanced protections. Here’s an overview of the key updates.

Increased Borrowing for Lower Incomes
New lending rules allow lower-income households to borrow more for a home. If you earn less than €55,000 annually, you’ll be able to allocate a larger portion of your income to housing costs. Meanwhile, higher-income households may face reduced borrowing capacity. With a projected average salary increase of 4.3% in 2025, homebuyers could access an additional €7,000 to €17,000 in borrowing power.

Opportunities for First-Time Buyers
First-time buyers earning up to twice the average income will find it easier to purchase a new-build home through the National Affordable Housing Fund. Using the Koopstart scheme, buyers can benefit from up to €70,000 off the purchase price. Around 1,680 homes will be made available in the fund’s first year.

Additionally, the first-time buyer transfer tax exemption threshold is increasing. If you’re between 18 and 35 years old and purchasing your first home, you won’t pay transfer tax on properties up to €525,000, up from the previous limit of €510,000 in 2024.

Improved Mortgage Access for Temporary Workers and Singles
Temporary workers will find it easier to secure a mortgage. Starting in 2025, you can request a "prospect statement" after just 26 weeks of employment, compared to the current 52-week requirement.

Single-income households also benefit, with earning thresholds starting at €28,000. Eligible applicants could borrow up to €17,000 more in 2025 than previously possible.

Student Debt and Your Mortgage
Former students with outstanding loans will face a higher interest rate of up to 2.57% in 2025. This increase could affect the maximum amount you can borrow for a home. It’s essential to carefully evaluate your monthly expenses and consult a mortgage advisor to understand the impact on your financial situation.

Tax-Free Gifting for Home Purchases
Parents can continue supporting their children with tax-free gifts of up to €32,195 in 2025. This financial assistance is available for children under 40 years old. If you received a "jubelton" (tax-free donation) in the past, ensure you invest the funds in your home by the end of 2025 to avoid back taxes.

Changes to the NHG
The limit for the National Mortgage Guarantee (NHG) will increase from €435,000 to €450,000. For homes with energy-saving features, the cap rises to €477,000. The NHG offers lower interest rates and added financial security. Additionally, the NHG fee is decreasing from 0.6% to 0.4%, saving up to €900 on a €450,000 mortgage.

Affordable Rent Through New Legislation
As of July 2024, rent prices are tied to the quality of a home through a points-based system. In 2025, municipalities will gain enforcement powers to curb excessive rents, reducing average rental costs by approximately €190 per month.

Prepare for 2025
While 2025 introduces exciting opportunities for homebuyers and renters, challenges remain. Housing prices are high, and supply is still limited. If you have questions about the new regulations, feel free to contact us!