Living near Brainport: neighbourhoods to consider
Eindhoven is compact, so the choice is often between city life and more space nearby. Strijp-S and the city centre suit people who like apartments, restaurants and cultural venues within walking or cycling distance. Residential areas with family homes and gardens surround the centre, and many internationals look at nearby villages and towns such as Veldhoven, Best, Son en Breugel, Waalre and Geldrop. Veldhoven is practical if you work at ASML, while the south-west of the city is close to the High Tech Campus. Your agent can help you compare building age, energy performance and the future plans for a neighbourhood.
International schools in the Eindhoven region
The region has the International School Eindhoven, which offers primary and secondary education in English. Dutch schools, including some with bilingual programmes, are another option for families who plan to stay for a longer period. Check admission, fees and waiting lists directly with the school before you choose an area. Because Eindhoven is a cycling city, a safe and short route to school is often just as important as the house itself.
Commuting to ASML, the High Tech Campus and beyond
Most Brainport employers can be reached by bike, bus or a short drive. Eindhoven Centraal has direct trains towards Utrecht, Amsterdam and Schiphol, and Eindhoven Airport offers flights to many European destinations. The A2 and A67 motorways connect the region with the rest of the Netherlands, Belgium and Germany. Traffic around the ring road and towards Veldhoven can be busy at peak times, so try your route at the hours you would really travel before you commit to a location.
Buying a house in Eindhoven step by step
Start with an independent mortgage adviser and a mortgage-in-principle, so you know your budget before viewing. Our page on an expat mortgage in the Netherlands explains what lenders usually look at, including the 30% ruling and temporary contracts. New in the country? Read about buying a house without a BSN first. After viewings, your agent advises on the price and negotiates for you. When you agree, you sign a provisional purchase contract with a three-day reflection period for buyers of a home. A valuation, the final mortgage offer and the transfer at the notary follow. Our general guide to buying a house in the Netherlands covers each step.
Plan your own funds
A Dutch mortgage can be at most 100% of the market value, so buyer costs are normally paid from savings. Think of transfer tax, the notary, a valuation, mortgage advice and possibly a building inspection. For a home you live in, transfer tax is 2% in 2026; buyers aged 18 to 34 may qualify once for the 0% starter exemption on homes worth up to €555,000. See transfer tax in 2026 and try the buyer costs calculator.
What a buying agent does for you
The seller’s agent works for the seller. Your own buying agent checks the condition and price of the home, goes through the Dutch documents with you and negotiates the price and conditions, such as financing and inspection clauses. This is especially useful if you are combining a demanding job with a house hunt. At Ons Soort Makelaars you can discuss everything in English with a local agent who knows the Brainport region. Read more about our estate agents in Eindhoven and how to compare estate agent fees.
Start the conversation
Make a short list of your must-haves: number of bedrooms, garden or balcony, school, commute and moving date. Share it with us and we will discuss the guidance that suits your situation. Want to explore other topics first? Visit our hub for expats and internationals, or send us a message using the form below.
Frequently asked questions
Can I buy a house in Eindhoven on a temporary contract?
Often yes, but lender policies differ. Some lenders accept a statement of intent from your employer. An independent mortgage adviser can tell you which options fit your contract.
Does the 30% ruling affect my mortgage?
The tax-free allowance can affect how lenders assess your income, and the maximum allowance changes from 30% to 27% from 1 January 2027. Ask your mortgage adviser how your lender treats it.
Which areas are convenient for ASML employees?
Veldhoven itself, the south-west of Eindhoven and nearby places such as Waalre and Best are often practical. Test the commute at peak times before deciding.
Is there an international school in Eindhoven?
Yes, the International School Eindhoven offers education in English. Check admission criteria and waiting lists directly with the school.
Do I need to speak Dutch to buy a house?
No. Your agent can guide you in English. The notary deed is in Dutch, so the notary arranges a translation or interpreter if you do not understand Dutch well enough.
How long does buying a house in Eindhoven take?
It depends on the market, your financing and the agreed transfer date. Many buyers plan several months from first viewing to the keys, but your situation may differ.
