Key takeaways
An NHG mortgage protects you against residual debt after a forced sale caused by unemployment, disability, divorce or death.
The trade-off is worth it for most starters: NHG-backed loans often carry rates up to 0.5% lower, against a one-time premium of 0.4% that is itself tax-deductible.
NHG applies only to your primary residence and only below the annual cost limit — which is the main reason buyers in expensive areas fall outside it.
This article, written by Toni our mortgage advisor at OHAO and explains how an NHG mortgage works, its key benefits such as lower interest rates and financial protection, and the latest NHG limits and requirements for 2025 and beyond. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or planning energy-efficient upgrades, Tony helps you understand how NHG can make your home purchase more secure.
What is a NHG mortgage?
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.
What are the key benefits of an NHG mortgage?
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.
NHG limit for 2025: what’s new?
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.
Please note: NHG limit increase in 2026.
What are the NHG requirements?
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. View the NHG requirements for 2026 here.
Renovations: NHG applies to renovations as long as the mortgage amount remains within the NHG limit.
How much does NHG cost?
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.
What are 4 situations where NHG offers protection?
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.
What is the disadvantage of NHG 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.
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Toni van der FlierAdviseur
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