High Tech Campus Eindhoven (HTCE) is one of the most important innovation hubs in the Netherlands. Home to more than 260 tech companies and R&D centers, it attracts thousands of highly skilled expats every year. Many of them, looking to settle down, explore the option of buying property nearby.
📈 As of 2025, the Eindhoven housing market is steadily growing, especially in areas close to the campus like Gestel, Stratum, and Meerhoven.
Average property prices:
- Apartments (1–2 bedrooms): €280,000 – €400,000
- Townhouses and family homes: €450,000 – €650,000
- Luxury villas and high-end properties: €750,000 and above
Mortgage Challenges Expats Face — and Solutions
Expats in the Netherlands often face unique challenges when applying for a mortgage:
- Temporary residence permits
- Lack of Dutch credit history
- Salaries paid in foreign currencies
- Language and legal barriers
✅ The good news: most major Dutch banks now offer expat-friendly mortgage products, especially in tech hubs like Eindhoven.
Major Banks and Lending Conditions
🧾 Key banks offering expat mortgages:
- ABN AMRO
- Rabobank
- ING
- SNS
- Independent brokers specializing in expats
📊 Typical mortgage conditions in 2025:
- Down payment: 10–20%
- Interest rate: 3.4% – 4.1% (fixed 10 years)
- Term: Up to 30 years
- Monthly repayment (based on a €360,000 property): €1,450–€1,800
Note: Expats are often required to contribute more upfront if their employment contract is fixed-term or if they’ve been in the Netherlands for less than 6 months.
On-Campus Guidance for Expats
HTCE provides a range of support services tailored to international employees:
- English-speaking mortgage advisors
- Legal help with contracts and notary processes
- Housing and finance webinars
- Partnerships with local real estate agents
Some employers even offer letters of recommendation or financial planning support, making the mortgage approval process easier.
The 30% Ruling: A Major Advantage
One of the biggest financial perks for expats in the Netherlands is the 30% ruling, which allows eligible expats to receive 30% of their gross salary tax-free for up to 5 years.
This increases take-home income and improves mortgage eligibility significantly.
Requirements:
- Moved to the Netherlands from abroad
- Possess specialized skills
- Application approved by the Dutch tax authority
Renting vs. Buying: What’s Best for Expats?
🆚 Comparison Table:
| Factor | Renting | Buying |
|---|---|---|
| Apartment cost | €1,100 – €1,400/month | Mortgage ~€1,450/month |
| House cost | €1,800 – €2,500/month | Mortgage ~€1,800–2,300/month |
| Flexibility | High | Moderate |
| Capital growth | None | Yes |
| Initial cost | Low | High (down payment + fees) |
📌 If you’re planning to stay in the Netherlands for more than 3 years, buying may be the smarter choice, especially with rising property values.
Emotional & Lifestyle Benefits of Owning
For many expats, owning a home is more than a financial decision — it’s about stability and belonging.
🏡 Benefits include:
- Personalization and renovation freedom
- Stability for families
- Integration into the local community
- Peace of mind for long-term residency
This is particularly important for families or professionals planning to stay in Eindhoven long-term.
✅ Conclusion
Getting a mortgage near High Tech Campus Eindhoven is realistic and increasingly accessible for expats. With supportive banks, financial consultants, and tax benefits like the 30% ruling, the process is smoother than ever.
✔ Why buying makes sense:
- Competitive mortgage rates
- Growing real estate market in Eindhoven
- Tax advantages for expats
- Institutional support from HTCE and employers
- Equal or lower monthly payments compared to rent
📍For international professionals working at HTCE, buying property isn’t just practical — it’s a step toward building a stable, prosperous life in one of Europe’s leading tech regions.
