Formal appraisal & value

What is your home worth? A well-founded story for buyers and sellers in 2026

2 June 2026 · 2 min read

The housing market is changing fast. Since 1 April 2026, foundation information has been a mandatory part of every appraisal report (taxatierapport). This means that buyers and sellers get earlier and clearer insight into possible foundation risks, and that affects negotiations, financing and sales strategy.

Why these rules exist

Land subsidence, drought and ageing wooden pile foundations are causing increasing risks in many Dutch neighbourhoods. That is why a national system has been introduced that gives homes a foundation risk score and makes this information mandatory in appraisal reports. This should reduce uncertainty for buyers and make transactions more transparent.

How does the foundation score from A to E work?

Appraisers give a score from A (no issues) to E (clear risk, further investigation needed). Labels A and B require no further action. Label C calls for attention to factors such as year of construction and soil. Labels D and E often lead to advice for further investigation. Incidentally, a D or E does not automatically mean there is damage, but it does mean there is an uncertainty that needs to be investigated. In short: with A and B there is no effect on value, with C usually no downward pressure on value, with D the value may fall without investigation and with E investigation is needed and downward pressure on value is possible.

Practical tips for sellers

Be transparent: providing information early prevents delays and renegotiation. Prepare by gathering structural documents and perhaps consider a QuickScan. Back up your story, because a D with a clear investigation report sells better than no information at all. And bring in an expert, so that everything is properly in order and your local specialist is looking over your shoulder.

Practical tips for buyers

Ask about the foundation score during the viewing. Look at the appraisal report and ask for further investigation if in doubt. Negotiate on the basis of facts: maintenance estimates and financing risks become clearer with a label. And here too, with a local expert at your side you are in a stronger position.

Local points of attention: Helmond, Eindhoven and Brainport

The region has many pre-war homes, varying soil types and neighbourhoods with historical reports of subsidence. In Helmond and Eindhoven, and certainly in the wider Brainport region too, it is therefore advisable to get good support from someone who knows the subject. Always buy or sell together with a local estate agent who knows the soil and the construction years, and use neighbourhood data for an accurate assessment. That reduces uncertainty and protects value. The bottom line: buying or selling a home starts with a well-founded story, and clarity about the foundations brings peace of mind, confidence and a fairer negotiation process.

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