When buying a house in the Netherlands, many buyers wonder when the purchase actually becomes official. While buyer and seller may reach a verbal agreement, Dutch law requires the agreement to be written down before it becomes legally binding. Since 2003 this rule has been included in article 7:2 of the Dutch Civil Code, known as the Burgerlijk Wetboek.
This means that a house purchase is only legally valid once a written purchase agreement has been signed by both the buyer and the seller.
Why a Written Contract Is Required
A written contract protects both parties involved in the transaction. Everything that has been agreed verbally between buyer and seller must be recorded in the purchase agreement. This includes details such as the purchase price, transfer date, conditions and agreements regarding the property. If questions or disagreements arise later in the process, both parties can refer to the signed contract.
How Homes Are Often Sold in Utrecht
In cities such as Utrecht, properties are frequently sold using a deadline process. Buyers submit their bids before a specific date and time. After all bids have been received, the seller selects the preferred buyer. Once the seller accepts a bid, the next step is drafting the purchase agreement. However, even after a bid is accepted, the purchase is not yet legally binding. The agreement becomes official only when both the buyer and the seller have signed the contract.
What Happens Between Verbal Agreement and Signing?
The period between accepting a bid and signing the purchase agreement usually takes several days, often around one week. During this time the purchase agreement is prepared and reviewed. Although a verbal agreement shows the intention to proceed with the sale, it does not create a legally binding property transaction.
Can a Verbal Agreement Be Cancelled?
Yes. Both buyer and seller can cancel the verbal agreement before the purchase contract has been signed. Neither party is required to give a reason for cancelling during this stage. This rule applies when both parties are private individuals. When a company or legal entity is involved, different rules may apply. For this reason, the property purchase only becomes legally secure after the written agreement has been signed.
Buying Property in Utrecht
Understanding the legal steps in the Dutch buying process helps buyers avoid misunderstandings and delays.
Jager Real Estate assists expats and international buyers purchasing homes in Utrecht and surrounding cities. The company guides buyers through the entire process, from property search to signing the deed at the notary.
For questions about buying property in Utrecht, contact us: info@jagerrealestate.nl