Transparency

    Calculation Methodology

    Complete transparency on how our mortgage calculator works. Every data source, assumption, and limitation—explained.

    Our mortgage calculator provides indicative borrowing capacity based on official Dutch lending criteria. We believe in full transparency about how calculations work and what they can and cannot tell you.

    Data Sources

    Nibud Woonquote Tables

    Annually (January)

    The official tables that determine what percentage of income can be spent on housing costs. We use the annually published tables without modification.

    Official source

    AFM Loan-to-Value Regulations

    Annually reviewed

    The maximum LTV of 100% is set by the Dutch Financial Markets Authority and reviewed annually.

    Official source

    Interest Rate Data

    Monthly

    Current mortgage rates are sourced from major Dutch lenders and updated monthly. We use indicative rates for 10-year fixed periods as the default.

    Tax & Transfer Rates

    Annually (January)

    Transfer tax rates and first-time buyer exemption limits from Rijksoverheid.nl.

    Official source

    Calculation Logic

    Step 1: Gross Income Calculation

    We calculate your gross annual income using:

    Gross Annual = (Monthly Salary × 12) + Holiday Allowance (8%)

    Holiday allowance is legally mandated and always included. For two incomes, we calculate each separately then combine for maximum capacity.

    Step 2: Woonquote Lookup

    Based on income and current interest rates, we look up the maximum financing percentage from Nibud tables. This determines the portion of income allowable for mortgage payments.

    Max Annual Payment = Gross Income × Woonquote Percentage

    Step 3: Mortgage Capacity

    We calculate the maximum mortgage amount that results in annual payments within the woonquote limit, using annuity mortgage calculations:

    Max Mortgage = Max Annual Payment ÷ Annuity Factor

    The annuity factor depends on the interest rate and mortgage term (default 30 years).

    Step 4: Deductions

    Existing debts reduce borrowing capacity. We apply standard reduction factors:

    • Student loans: 0.35% of original debt × remaining term
    • Personal loans: 2% of outstanding balance per month
    • Alimony: Full monthly amount deducted from income

    Key Assumptions

    30-year mortgage term (standard in Netherlands)
    Annuity repayment structure
    Property is primary residence
    No BKR negative registrations
    Employment probation period completed
    Income is stable and ongoing

    Known Limitations

    Our calculator cannot account for:

    • Individual bank policies (each lender has unique criteria)
    • Credit history beyond BKR (international credit reports)
    • Complex income situations (multiple employers, variable income)
    • Visa/permit-specific restrictions
    • Future interest rate changes during fixed period selection

    This is an estimate. Actual mortgage offers from banks may differ. Always consult with a licensed mortgage advisor before making decisions.

    Update Schedule

    Regular Updates

    • Monthly: Interest rate ranges
    • Annually (January): Nibud tables, NHG limits, transfer tax
    • Quarterly: Full methodology review

    Immediate Updates

    • Regulatory changes
    • Reported calculation errors
    • Official source corrections

    Last methodology update: January 2026. Next scheduled review: April 2026.

    Questions About Our Calculations?

    We're happy to explain how specific calculations work or discuss the limitations for your particular situation.