News

Over 14,000 properties are welcoming prospective buyers today for the NVM Open House Day between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM CEST, up from 9,000 in March. The substantial increase in participating properties reflects a larger national supply of homes for sale as private landlords continue selling off former rental units due to unfavorable tax rules. With dry weather expected and over 100,000 total homes listed on Funda, organizers hope visitor numbers will top the 52,000 recorded in March, even as higher mortgage rates moderate overall home price growth.

Nearly six tonnes of fireworks have been surrendered since a government collection campaign began in September. However, the total remains far below the amount seized by customs and police, highlighting the scale of illegal fireworks still in circulation.

Minister Sophie Hermans has backed plans for Eli Lilly to build a $3 billion pharmaceutical factory near Katwijk. The project is expected to create 500 jobs, but some local concerns remain despite strong support from the municipal council.

The court in Utrecht has ruled that the Ministry of Agriculture may publish farm data requested by environmental organisation MOB. Agricultural groups argued that farmers' privacy would be affected, but the judge found that the public interest carries more weight.

Dutch optical chain Hans Anders has suspended sales of Meta's AI-powered smart glasses as political and public debate over privacy concerns surrounding the technology continues to intensify.

Proposed changes to the Dutch Box 3 tax regime are drawing criticism from both investors and politicians, with concerns growing over investor uncertainty and the impact on long-term wealth creation.

The Dutch Association of Real Estate Agents (NVM) supports plans for a mandatory register for real estate agents but argues that registration alone is not enough. The organisation is urging the government to include education and professional competency requirements to better protect consumers and strengthen trust in the housing market.

New car sales in the Netherlands declined during the first nine months of the year, but a strong September performance suggests buyers are moving quickly before new tax measures take effect in 2027.