Unfortunately, we find ourselves in a market wherein property owners sometimes feel forced to sell their rental properties in the Netherlands. For owners that don’t live near their property or speak an entirely different language, this can be even more difficult as they aren’t present to choose a realtor, get the property ready for sale or sit down with the solicitor. For a lot of these owners, it’s comforting to know that they can trust an internationally oriented realtor that speaks their language and has translations of all important documents.
Selling from a distance: how does that work?
At Interhouse we see more and more properties being sold while the owner is on the other side of the world. Whether it’s someone that is temporarily working abroad, has moved there or simply extended their stay – with the right approach, distance doesn’t have to be an obstacle.
Sometimes selling a property from a distance requires the realtor to be more creative and reach out to their network. A few examples:
From Hong Kong to Holland
A property that had been purchased for their daughter in college, was rented out for years. When the laws changed, the landlord – now living in Hong Kong and without a Dutch passport – decided to sell it. With a virtual intake of the property, full communication and processing through e-mail and Docusign and a cooperative solicitor, the transfer went smoothly.
No return ticket
An owner that was being treated for an illness in Southern Europe decided against renting out his property after the tenant left. Traveling to the Netherlands wasn’t an option. Through a Spanish solicitor, the Dutch power of attorney was arranged, making it possible to sell from abroad. The property was transferred including furniture – a condition clearly communicated with potential buyers beforehand. Result? The owner could fully focus on recovery.
Investment property in Australian perspective
An apartment that was once purchased as an investment, was not rented out again after termination. The owner, by now living in Australia and a client of many years, handled quickly through e-mail and Docusign. The power of attorney was arranged through a local office, so the sale could be arranged without the owner being in the Netherlands. Furniture was included, but an alternative option was also offered: professional clearance.
Temporary became indefinite
A landlord that moved abroad for four years, decided to stay indefinitely. When the temporary tenant terminated early, selling the property was the logical move. The apartment was done up under the watchful eyes of the realtor and was styled for the photographer and viewings. Everything was organized from a distance, including the power of attorney through the embassy. The property wasn’t vacant for a moment.
Selling from a distance? It can be done – with the right partner
Distance doesn’t have to be an obstacle when selling a property in the Netherlands. It all starts with trust in someone that knows your property, has the right network, is efficient, speaks your language and unburdens you on all fronts. Especially when the property was already rented out through Interhouse, the step to selling is surprisingly easy to make.
