Dutch homeowners cautiously optimistic about coalition housing plans

Dutch homeowners are cautiously welcoming the coalition agreement between D66, CDA, and VVD, but warn that key details remain unclear.

Vereniging Eigen Huis, the Netherlands’ largest homeowners’ association, welcomed the coalition’s pledge to build more homes. “The coalition agreement takes a hopeful step toward more stability for homeowners,” said Cindy Kremer, general director of Vereniging Eigen Huis. “But the cabinet still has a lot of work to do to truly give people certainty with these plans.” Two-thirds of the new construction will be affordable, and at least 25 percent will be affordable owner-occupied housing. The government also plans to promote factory-built homes and take a more active role in land policy.

The coalition has confirmed it will retain the mortgage interest deduction, which Vereniging Eigen Huis said provides important security for homeowners’ costs, particularly for those who recently bought a home.

Kremer noted that the government has taken into account the association’s call to review all fiscal measures in relation to the housing market crisis.

The association called for clarity on how homeowners can finance and practically implement sustainability measures. While the National Insulation Offensive was welcomed, practical solutions for cavity wall insulation remain limited because of bat protection rules.

Questions also remain about the financial attractiveness of solar panels after net metering ends and about mandatory hybrid heat pumps in areas without district heating. Other concerns include unfair bidding practices, foundation problems, and insufficient support for homeowners’ associations (VvEs).

The real estate association NVM also expressed cautious optimism. “The coalition agreement ‘Getting to Work’ reflects the urgency we have long called for. This is badly needed,” NVM said. “Today’s CBS figures, confirming that the 100,000-home target was again missed, underline the necessity of taking action. Commercial real estate needs fiscal clarity and less regulatory pressure, and our rural areas must be freed from nitrogen restrictions.”

NVM pointed out that there should be close collaboration between the government and market parties, including clear agreements on land allocation, construction pace, and target groups. “Only in this way can we accelerate housing construction, create space for work, improve the living environment, and strengthen the economy,” the association said.