Neighbourhoods where internationals often live
The Hague combines city, dunes and beach. The Statenkwartier and the Archipelbuurt offer characterful homes close to the centre and the international zone. Benoordenhout is green and quiet, with good access to the A12 and Wassenaar. Scheveningen offers life by the sea, while Voorburg and Rijswijk give you more space at a short distance from the centre. Wassenaar, just outside the city, is popular with families who want a village feel. Your agent can explain differences in housing types, parking, owners’ associations and the condition of older buildings, so you can compare homes properly.
International schools in and around The Hague
The region has a wide choice of international education. Well-known schools include the British School in the Netherlands, the American School of The Hague in Wassenaar, the International School of The Hague, the European School The Hague, the Deutsche Internationale Schule Den Haag and the Lycée Français Vincent van Gogh. Each has its own curriculum and admission rules. Check availability, fees and waiting lists with the school directly, and let your preferred school help define your search area.
Working for an international organisation
Many internationals in The Hague work for organisations such as the International Court of Justice, the International Criminal Court, the OPCW, Europol or Eurojust, or for an embassy. Employment terms and tax status can differ from a regular Dutch contract, and that may affect your mortgage options. Discuss your situation with an independent adviser early. Our guide to an expat mortgage in the Netherlands explains the main points lenders look at.
Getting around
Den Haag Centraal and Den Haag HS connect you by train to Leiden, Rotterdam, Amsterdam and Schiphol. Trams and buses cover the city and the coast, and Rotterdam The Hague Airport is close by. The A4, A12 and A13 motorways link The Hague with the rest of the country. Cycling is often the fastest way to get around within the city, so check bike routes as well as public transport when you compare neighbourhoods.
How buying a house in The Hague works
Get a mortgage-in-principle first, so you know your budget. If you have just arrived, read about buying a house without a BSN and the registrations you need. After viewings, your agent negotiates on your behalf. Once you agree, a provisional purchase contract is signed; as a buyer of a home you have a three-day reflection period. Then follow the valuation, the final mortgage offer and the transfer at the notary. The deed is in Dutch, and the notary arranges a translation or interpreter if needed. For all steps, see buying a house in the Netherlands.
Costs and own funds
A Dutch mortgage can be at most 100% of the market value, so buyer costs are usually paid from savings. These include transfer tax, notary fees, a valuation report, mortgage advice and possibly a building inspection. In 2026 transfer tax is 2% for a home you will live in, and the 0% starter exemption applies once to buyers aged 18 to 34 for homes worth up to €555,000. Read about transfer tax in 2026 and estimate your costs with the buyer costs calculator.
Why choose your own buying agent
The selling agent represents the seller. A buying agent assesses the home and price, checks the Dutch documents with you and negotiates the price and conditions. For internationals with limited time, that support makes the difference between rushing and choosing calmly. Ons Soort Makelaars works with local agents and offers guidance in English, Polish and Ukrainian. Learn more about our estate agents in The Hague, visit our expat hub or tell us about your plans using the form below.
Frequently asked questions
Can diplomats or staff of international organisations buy a home in The Hague?
Yes, but tax status and employment terms can affect financing. Discuss your situation with an independent mortgage adviser who has experience with international organisations.
Which neighbourhoods are popular with expats in The Hague?
Many internationals look in the Statenkwartier, Archipelbuurt, Benoordenhout and Scheveningen, or in Voorburg, Rijswijk and Wassenaar. Schools and commute usually decide the final choice.
Which international schools are in the region?
Examples are the British School in the Netherlands, the American School of The Hague, the International School of The Hague and the European School The Hague. Always check admission with the school.
Do I need a BSN to buy a house?
For a mortgage and most practical steps you will need a BSN and a Dutch bank account. Registering with the municipality is usually the first step after arrival.
What does a buying agent cost?
Fees differ per agent and per service. Ask for the scope and fee in writing before you start, so you know exactly what is included.
Can I withdraw after signing the provisional contract?
As a buyer of a home you have a three-day reflection period after receiving the signed contract. After that, you can only withdraw under the conditions agreed in the contract.
