Netherlands housing wealth transfer expected to reach 300 billion euros

An estimated 300 billion euros in housing wealth is expected to be transferred through gifts and inheritances in the Netherlands between 2024 and 2033. This transfer is driven by significant increases in home equity, which rose from 546 billion euros in 2006 to 1.373 trillion euros in 2024.

Experts note that family wealth is playing an increasingly decisive role in the housing market, assisting both first-time buyers and older movers. However, this trend risks exacerbating wealth inequality, as access to such family assets is not universal. Data indicates the wealthiest 10% of households hold over 56% of total wealth.

This inheritance wave may also create significant capital flows to other countries. For instance, as the first generations of Surinamese migrants in the Netherlands age, their accumulated real estate wealth may be passed to heirs living in Suriname. While much of the wealth will stay within the Netherlands due to family ties, substantial sums could move abroad through inheritance.