Crossing the border for peace and profit: popular destinations for the Dutch

What was once a privilege for a select few has become a strategic choice for a growing group of Dutch people. Waking up in your own apartment by the sea or a villa in the hills is seen not only as a luxury but also as a smart investment.

At MASTERS EXPO, you were introduced to a wide range of international real estate companies capitalizing on the growing interest in living and investing abroad. This interest didn't come out of the blue. Since the coronavirus pandemic, demand for holiday homes has increased significantly, and the introduction of the new Box 3 regulation accelerated this trend. Savings that were previously safely kept in the bank are increasingly finding their way to properties abroad. According to Statistics Netherlands (CBS), approximately one in twenty Dutch households now owns a second home.

The most popular destinations for a second home?

5. Scandinavia

While Southern Europe is synonymous with sunshine, interest in tranquility and nature is growing in the north. Sweden has seen a significant increase in foreign real estate activity. European research shows that 67 percent of travelers now choose destinations based on relaxation and nature, a trend that benefits Scandinavia.

4. Italy

Italy offers diversity: from Tuscan farmhouses to modern apartments on Lake Como or a house for a euro. The market is broad and offers a wide range of price points. For lovers of culture, food, and nature, the country remains as popular as ever.

3.Dubai

A completely different playing field. The city combines a continuously developing economy with a rapidly expanding international real estate market. Its attractive tax environment and cosmopolitan character make Dubai attractive to those looking beyond Europe.

2. Spain

For decades, Spain has been a favorite among the Dutch. The climate, the food, and its easy accessibility keep it consistently at the top.

1. Portugal

Portugal is currently one of the most sought-after destinations. The combination of guaranteed sunshine, relatively stable prices, and growing international interest makes the country attractive. The Algarve and regions around Lisbon, in particular, are seeing a continued increase in foreign buyers.