Are you planning to buy a house and renovate it? One of the most common questions we hear at Newcurb Makelaars is: how much can I borrow for a home with renovation? The good news: in many cases, you can include renovation costs in your mortgage. In this blog, we explain exactly how it works, what to watch out for, and how to calculate your maximum mortgage.
How much can you borrow for a house with renovation?
In the Netherlands, you can typically borrow up to 100% of the property value. But when renovations are involved, lenders look at something different:
👉 The property value after renovation
This creates opportunities to borrow more.
Example:
- Purchase price: €525,000
- Renovation costs: €60,000
- Expected value after renovation: €600,000
In this case, you may be able to borrow up to €600,000—provided your income supports it.
💡 This is where many buyers gain additional financial flexibility.
What is a construction deposit (bouwdepot)?
When you finance a renovation through your mortgage, the renovation budget is placed in a construction deposit (bouwdepot).
Here’s how it works:
- The lender reserves the renovation funds
- You submit invoices (e.g. from contractors or suppliers)
- The lender pays these invoices from the deposit
This ensures the money is used specifically to improve the property.
What renovation costs can you include in your mortgage?
A common question is: which renovation costs are eligible for financing?
Value-adding renovations:
- Home extension or expansion
- Dormer installation
- New kitchen or bathroom
- Insulation (roof, floor, walls)
- Solar panels or heat pump
Other improvements:
- Plastering and painting
- New flooring
- Upgrading installations
Important: the renovation should increase the property’s value.
What costs are not included?
Not all costs can be financed through your mortgage.
These typically include:
- Property transfer tax
- Notary fees
- Real estate agent fees
- Mortgage advice and valuation costs
These costs usually require your own funds.
Borrowing extra for energy efficiency
If you plan to make your home more energy-efficient, there are additional options:
- Higher borrowing capacity for energy-saving measures
- Interest discounts for better energy labels
- Government subsidies and incentives
At Newcurb Makelaars, we actively advise clients on these opportunities because they directly impact both monthly costs and long-term property value.
What should you consider?
Buying a home with renovation requires careful planning. Keep in mind:
- Create a realistic renovation budget
- Ensure a proper valuation based on the future value
- Keep a financial buffer for unexpected costs
- Work closely with a mortgage advisor
Buying and renovating a home in your area?
Are you looking to buy a property and renovate it in Hilversum, het Gooi or surrounding areas? We’re here to help.
At NEWCURB Makelaars, we guide you through both the property search and connect you with a financial advisor from ING Mortgage bank or Rocket Hypotheken intermediair for your financial possibilities and make sure you are well prepared for buying your next home.
👉 Want to know more?
Get in touch