In Tilburg, real estate agents often charge key money in addition to broker fees, leading to double charging. The Brokers Regulation (Real Estate Agents Act) requires transparency in fee structures. As a tenant or buyer in Tilburg, you do not have to pay extra key money if it is already included in the agent's commission.
Recognize double costs: Invoices without clear specification or amounts above €150, typical for properties in popular Tilburg neighborhoods such as the Spoorzone or Oud-Zuid. Action plan: Compare invoices with local rates via the Tilburg Tenants' Interests Association and demand recalculation. For rentals: Report to the Human Environment and Transport Inspectorate or the Municipality of Tilburg Housing. For purchases: File a complaint with the NVM Complaints Committee or the local Real Estate Association Midden-Brabant.
Case study: A family in Tilburg-West paid €350 total for a rental property, of which €120 was pure key money. After a complaint to the municipality and NVM, they received €140 back. Legal basis: Unjust enrichment (Dutch Civil Code art. 6:203). Document all correspondence digitally, consult the Juridisch Loket in Tilburg for free advice, and engage a local lawyer for a formal demand letter. This way, you hold Tilburg real estate agents accountable and save significantly on the housing market.