The back story 1
In-depth stories behind the list.
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The back story
Buying in Amsterdam: the back story
Canal houses and apartments, the purchase agreement, the notary and the Land Registry: how buying works in the Netherlands.
7 of the best · Amsterdam, the Netherlands
Property in Amsterdam: Agencies, Neighbourhoods and How Buying Works
How buying works in the Netherlands, from the purchase agreement to the notary and the Kadaster, leasehold land, and agencies. We never publish prices.
Our 7 favourites, listed A–Z · Updated October 2026
What's onThis week in Amsterdam
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Insiders' picks
Three of our favourites from this list, vetted by people who know and love Amsterdam.
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Who completes the sale
The notary (notaris)
Every Dutch property transfer is completed by a deed signed before a civil-law notary.
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Check ownership and boundaries
Kadaster (the Land Registry)
The Dutch Land Registry, where ownership, mortgages and boundaries are recorded.
The full list: Property, A–Z
Neighbourhood
Agencies & official steps 6
Who to talk to, and what to check.
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Prime homes
Engel & Völkers
An international agency for prime homes, with offices in the Netherlands.
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For people moving to Amsterdam
IN Amsterdam
The city region’s official service for international newcomers: registration and practical help.
Strawinskylaan 1767, 1077 XX AmsterdamExplore View on map
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Check ownership and boundaries
Kadaster (the Land Registry)
The Dutch Land Registry, where ownership, mortgages and boundaries are recorded.
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Luxury homes
Netherlands Sotheby’s International Realty
Luxury homes across the Netherlands, among them Amsterdam canal houses.
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Who completes the sale
The notary (notaris)
Every Dutch property transfer is completed by a deed signed before a civil-law notary.
