Aankoopmakelaar: the buyer's agent (2026)
An aankoopmakelaar is a buying agent who represents you, not the seller. They find and value homes, advise your bid and negotiate. Fees are typically around 1% of the purchase price, or a fixed fee of roughly €2,500–€7,500. It's optional, but common in a competitive market where the seller already has their own agent. The fee is part of your buying costs and is not tax-deductible.
What they do
A buying agent screens listings, inspects properties, checks the asking price against comparable sales, advises your offer and any conditions (financing, survey), and negotiates on your behalf. In a seller's market their pricing and negotiation experience can save more than they cost — or stop you overpaying under pressure.
What it costs
Expect either a percentage (around 1% of price) or a fixed fee (roughly €2,500–€7,500), sometimes with a smaller retainer if you don't end up buying. Unlike some financing costs, the buying agent's fee isn't deductible — it's cash on top of your deposit. The calculator includes it as an optional line in your one-off buying costs.