The National Mortgage Guarantee (NHG) is a government-backed program in the Netherlands that offers financial protection for borrowers and lenders.

It helps first-time homebuyers by providing a discounted mortgage rate and safeguards in case of unforeseen events like unemployment, disability, death, or divorce. If you meet the eligibility criteria, an NHG mortgage can be a smart and secure option when buying your first home.

• Lower interest rates: NHG-backed mortgages often come with lower interest rates—as much as 0.5% which saves you in the long term.

• Financial protection: NHG protects you from residual debt in case of a forced sale, making it easier for you to manage unexpected financial situations.

• Protection from life events: NHG protects you from mortgage payment difficulties in case of unemployment, death, divorce or disability.

In 2025, the NHG limit is set at €450,000 for homes without energy-saving measures. However, if you make energy-efficient upgrades to your property, this limit can rise to €477,000. This limit ensures that more homebuyers can take advantage of the financial protection NHG offers, while also promoting sustainability.

To qualify for an NHG mortgage, you need to meet the following criteria:

• Primary residence: NHG applies only to your main home. It is not available for second or rental properties.

• Maximum property value: the total property cost (including purchase price, renovation costs, and transaction fees) must not exceed €455,000 in 2025. For homes with energy-efficient measures, this limit increases to €477,000 in 2025.

• Renovations: NHG applies to renovations as long as the mortgage amount remains within the NHG limit.

To take out an NHG-backed mortgage, you pay a one-time premium. In 2025, this premium is 0.4%. For example, if you buy a property for €445,000 in 2025, the NHG premium of 0.4% means you will pay a one-time fee of €1,780.

The NHG fee is tax-deductible in the Netherlands, so you can get some money back when you file your tax return.

• NHG protects you if you lose your job and can no longer make your mortgage payments.

• NHG offers support if you go through a divorce and face financial difficulties with your mortgage.

• NHG provides protection if you become unable to work due to disability.

• NHG helps if you or your partner pass away, easing the financial burden of the mortgage.

The NHG property value limit for 2025 is €455,000, or €477,000 for energy-efficient homes. If your total property cost exceeds this limit, you won’t qualify for NHG protection. This restricts the range of homes eligible for NHG, especially when prices are increasing.