With the Dutch housing market tighter than ever in 2026, buying an older property for a total renovation has become one of the smartest ways to secure the home you want. But where do you start?

Buying a fully modernised, turnkey property often means paying a premium that puts it out of financial reach. Older properties with lower energy labels are a different story but navigating building laws, energy label requirements, and municipal permits in a new country can be complex.

“LucKey Construction manages the entire build, from structural work and energy upgrades to bespoke kitchens and the finishing touches,” says Maria Surkova, director and co-owner of LucKey Construction.

“Most of our clients are international professionals. They don’t have time to chase contractors or manage a complex renovation in a language they don’t speak. We make sure they always know exactly what’s happening on site.”

Energy labels

Buying a property with a lower energy label –  E, F, or G – and commissioning a full renovation is increasingly common. The purchase price is lower, and a complete overhaul lets you design exactly what you need.

LucKey Construction provides fixed-price quotes after a full site survey. And given that prices for imported materials and cabinetry have risen in 2026, locking in a fixed price with your contractor early is the simplest way to avoid cost surprises mid-project.

Total renovations in the Netherlands typically start from around €1,000 per square metre, and the investment tends to hold well, as energy-efficient homes are in demand.

Changing layouts

Older Dutch houses tend to have smaller, separate rooms. This was practical for the time they were built, but less suited to how most people want to live now. Opening up the layout usually means removing load-bearing walls and installing steel H-beams.

This kind of structural work requires a permit from the municipality, submitted through the local authority Omgevingsloket portal. Although permit applications are the homeowner’s responsibility, LucKey advises its clients on exactly what they need and when.

Whether constructing a garden extension or transforming a dusty attic into a master suite with a dormer window (dakkapel), these changes fundamentally alter a home. High-end renovations often focus on bespoke kitchens and wet-room bathrooms.

Financial benefits

The Nationale Hypotheek Garantie, or NHG, is a Dutch government mortgage guarantee available on purchases up to a set limit. In 2026, that limit for buyers incorporating recognised energy-saving measures has risen to €498,200, allowing financing of up to 106% of the post-renovation value.

Government subsidies through the ISDE scheme have also expanded, covering a €400 ventilation bonus and premiums for sustainable, biobased insulation materials.

If you are considering buying a listed building or rijksmonument, keep in mind that from May 29, 2026 these properties will also require an energy label when sold which is worth factoring in early if you are planning to sell down the line.

Remember too, that since the Wet kwaliteitsborging voor het bouwen (Wkb) came into full force, structural work in the Netherlands requires sign-off from an independent professional that the homeowner engages alongside their contractor.

Dedicated manager

Every LucKey project also comes with a dedicated English-speaking account manager, available outside regular office hours because, of course, most clients are at work during the day.

From the first day on site to the final handover, LucKey coordinates the construction workers and contractors, manages the schedule, and keeps clients informed at every stage. For international homeowners who don’t speak Dutch, that continuity makes a significant difference.

Planning a renovation? Get in touch with LucKey Construction for a free site survey and price quote