The average equity of homes in the Netherlands has risen significantly due to continued increases in property prices. Market researcher Calcasa reports that the average home value is now
approaching €500,000, with the average equity per home reaching €220,000. This marks a substantial increase from two years ago, when the average equity—calculated as the difference between a home’s market value and the outstanding mortgage—stood at €175,000.
Calcasa highlights that the growing equity levels make a large portion of the housing market more resilient to potential future price declines. The Netherlands currently has over 8 million homes, with a combined market value nearing €4 trillion. Calcasa's equity calculations are based on existing homes sold since January 1, 1993—a total of more than 3 million properties valued collectively at over €1.5 trillion. The equity from these transactions averages €220,000 per home.
The researchers note that the actual average equity is likely even higher. Their calculations assume mortgages cover 100% of the purchase price, without accounting for any repayments made since the purchase. Additionally, homes sold before 1993 are excluded from the analysis, further emphasizing the conservative nature of these estimates.
Homes sold before 2000 typically boast the highest equity, benefiting from decades of value appreciation. In contrast, properties purchased around 2008 tend to have less equity due to price declines during the financial crisis.
Some municipalities, particularly those on the islands of Schiermonnikoog, Vlieland, and Ameland, have the highest relative equity levels. Few transactions have occurred on these islands since 1993, but the average equity as a percentage of the original purchase price is an impressive 90%. Similar percentages are seen in urban municipalities like Nieuwegein, Haarlem, and Utrecht.
In absolute terms, Bloemendaal leads the rankings with an average equity of €495,000, followed by Laren, Blaricum, Heemstede, and Wassenaar. Haarlem also performs strongly, with average equity at 85% relative to purchase price and an absolute figure of €306,000. Amsterdam’s average equity is €281,000.
This surge in home equity underscores the strength of the Dutch housing market, even amid fluctuating economic conditions.