Half of homeowners worry about affording their housing costs in the coming year

Nearly half of homeowners with a mortgage in the Netherlands expect to have trouble paying their housing costs in the coming 12 months, according to the latest Housing Costs Monitor by the National Mortgage Guarantee (NHG). Many are already cutting back on other things in order to keep paying their mortgage, energy bills, insurance, and home maintenance.

The NHG found that 45 percent of homeowners expect to have at least some trouble affording their housing costs in the coming year. Around 115,000 homeowners in the Netherlands fear major payment problems.

Many homeowners are already taking measures to be able to keep paying their housing costs. 23 percent have started working more, an increase of 7 percent compared to the previous measurement six months ago. 56 percent are cutting back on other expenses, mainly groceries, followed by restaurants, outings, and energy. Only two-thirds of homeowners seek help from financial specialists when facing money problems.

NHG chairman Cara Muters called the situation serious. “Many homeowners are worried about the affordability of their housing costs. These concerns are greater than many people think and the impact of financial worries on your health is big,” she said. “It is essential that we continue to pay attention to this group and offer support where possible. “

The NHG shares the data from its monitor, drawn up twice a year, with the government and market parties. “The aim is to jointly provide better support to homeowners who are at risk of getting into trouble,” said Muters.