ACCESS NL > Housing in the Netherlands > Buying a house in the Netherlands > What does a notary do in the Netherlands?

Buying a house in the Netherlands

What factors should I take into account before buying a house or apartment?

What other costs should I consider before buying a house in Netherlands?

What costs are involved in buying a house or apartment?

Which process should I follow when buying a house?

Is it compulsory to have a written contract to buy a house or is a verbal agreement binding as well in the Netherlands?

I have made an offer and signed a ‘contract of sale’ for a house. Can I still withdraw the offer?

I am considering buying an apartment. I have heard that I will become a member of a VvE (Vereniging van Eigenaren, Association of Owners). Can you explain what this is and what they do?

What does a notary do in the Netherlands?

Notaries occupy a special place in the world of legal professionals in the Netherlands, alongside advocaten (attorneys-at-law), deurwaarders (bailiffs) and belastingconsulenten (tax advisors). Notaries are authorised to draw up deeds, especially concerning: family law, property law and corporate law

Under the Dutch legal system, a notaris (notary) is required to weigh up and balance the interests of all the parties to a legal transaction. A notary is independent of all parties. For example, when a property is transferred, a notaris acts for both the seller and the buyer.

How much do I pay for a notary service?

What legal services does a notary provide?