Expat guidance, English spoken
Finding your home in the Netherlands starts here.
Relocating to Haarlem or the surrounding area? We guide you through every step of buying or renting, clearly, personally, and in English.
Why HuisHaven
The Dutch housing market is complex. We make it simple.
As an expat you enter a housing market that is fast, competitive, and for outsiders often opaque. Rules, procedures, terminology and timelines all differ from what you are used to.
At HuisHaven Makelaars we guide expats who want to live in Haarlem or surroundings, with full support in English, from orientation to handover. You do not have to figure it out alone.
Our approach
Step by step to your new home.
Orientation & intake
We start with a conversation, in English. We listen to your situation, timeline, and budget, and explain how the Dutch housing market works.
Neighbourhood guidance
Haarlem has distinct neighbourhoods with very different characters. We help you find where you will truly feel at home, based on your lifestyle, commute, and preferences.
Housing search & viewings
We search actively, including off-market listings. We accompany you to viewings and point out what other buyers will miss.
Offer & negotiation
We determine the right bid strategy with you and negotiate firmly on your behalf. No surprises, no jargon, just clear advice.
Legal & administrative support
We guide you through the purchase agreement, building inspection, and notary process. We flag potential issues before they become problems.
After key handover
We stay available after the move. Questions about your municipality, BSN registration, local utilities? We point you in the right direction.
Haarlem
“30 minutes from Amsterdam. A city that feels like home.”
Why Haarlem
An international city on a human scale.
Connectivity
Haarlem is 15 minutes from Amsterdam Centraal and 20 minutes from Schiphol Airport. Ideal for expats working in Amsterdam or travelling often.
International schools
There are several international and bilingual schools in and around Haarlem, including options in Heemstede and Bloemendaal.
Expat community
Haarlem has a growing international community. From networking events to expat-focused clubs and activities, you are not alone.
Quality of life
Historic centre, parks, beach 20 minutes away, local markets, excellent restaurants. Haarlem offers everything Amsterdam offers, with more calm and space.
Your guides
You work directly with us.
Michelle de Graaf
Realtor & Co-owner
Interior design background. She understands what you are looking for, even before you can fully articulate it.
Azer Michael Mehrab
Realtor & Co-owner
Digital strategy background. Sharp, structured, and always direct, exactly what you need in an unfamiliar market.
Frequently asked questions.
Do you work in English?
Yes. All our communications, viewings, and guidance can be conducted fully in English. We understand that navigating an unfamiliar system in a foreign language adds unnecessary stress, so we remove that barrier completely.
What is the difference between buying and renting as an expat?
Both are possible, but each comes with its own requirements. To buy, you typically need a Dutch mortgage or sufficient own funds. For renting, landlords often request proof of income and sometimes a bank guarantee. We explain the specific requirements for your situation in our first conversation.
How competitive is the housing market in Haarlem?
Haarlem is a popular city with a competitive market. Good properties often receive multiple bids. Having an experienced buyer's agent by your side, who knows the local market and can act quickly, significantly increases your chances.
Do I need a Dutch bank account to buy a property?
Yes, for the mortgage and notary process a Dutch bank account is generally required. We can advise on which banks offer accounts for internationals and what documentation is typically needed.
What areas around Haarlem do you cover?
We are active in Haarlem and the surrounding municipalities, including Heemstede, Bloemendaal, Zandvoort, Velsen, and Haarlemmermeer. Contact us if you have questions about a specific area.
Ready for your next chapter?
Ready to find your home in Haarlem?
Let's talk. Tell us where you are, what you are looking for, and when you are planning to move, we'll take it from there.