Starting January 1, 2026, the NHG threshold, the maximum amount for which a mortgage with NHG (National Mortgage Guarantee) can be taken out, will increase from €450,000 to €470,000. For mortgages including additional energy-saving features, the threshold will be 6% higher, reaching €498,200. The one-time premium for taking out an NHG mortgage will remain 0.4%. This increase allows more homebuyers to apply for an NHG-backed mortgage.
What is NHG and Why is it Attractive for Buyers?
NHG provides a safety net for homeowners who can temporarily no longer afford their mortgage due to personal circumstances, such as unemployment, disability, or a relationship breakdown. Many lenders also offer a lower mortgage interest rate for NHG mortgages, as the risk for the bank is lower. In short, NHG offers more security and often lower monthly payments.
One NHG Threshold for All Home Types
From 2026 onwards, a single NHG threshold will apply to all types of homes. This eliminates the separate thresholds for caravans and pitches. Currently, the NHG threshold for caravans is €172,000 and for pitches €61,000. Starting in 2026, both will be included in the €470,000 threshold, ensuring equal access to NHG regardless of property type.
Affordable Homes: Threshold €420,000
The national government aims to build 100,000 new homes per year, two-thirds of which should be affordable. The threshold for affordable owner-occupied homes will be €420,000 in 2026, up from €405,000 in 2025.
National Fund for Affordable Homes (NFBK)
Developers can receive support from the National Fund for Affordable Homes to sell homes below market value to first-time buyers. The new application round, with a budget of €29 million, starts on October 20, 2025. This will allow more first-time buyers to purchase their first home at an affordable price.
What This Means for You
For homebuyers, the higher NHG threshold offers more options and security. Buyers can look slightly further within their budget, while sellers benefit from a larger group of potential buyers eligible for NHG.
As real estate agents and appraisers in Utrecht and the surrounding area, we see growing interest in NHG among buyers. While we do not provide mortgages ourselves, we work closely with certified mortgage advisors and can connect you with a specialist who can calculate exactly what this means for your situation.
Summary
▪ NHG threshold rises to €470,000 in 2026
▪ With energy-saving features: €498,200
▪ One-time premium remains 0.4%
▪ One threshold for all property types
▪ Affordable home threshold: €420,000
Want to Know More About Buying or Selling in Utrecht and Surrounding Areas?
As local real estate agents and appraisers, we are happy to assist you with purchase guidance, sales advice, or a reliable property valuation of your home. Feel free to contact us for a no-obligation consultation.
If you want to learn more about the possibilities of NHG, we can connect you with one of the experienced mortgage advisors in our network who can explain exactly what this means for your situation.
