Terug naar Encyclopedie

Key Money in Home Purchases in Tilburg: Avoiding Hidden Costs

Learn to avoid hidden key money in home purchases in Tilburg. Legal requirements, steps for reclamation, and a practical example from Tilburg.

2 min leestijd

In the purchase of a home in Tilburg, key money is often disguised as 'transfer costs' or administrative fees, but this is legally contestable. According to the law on the sale of movable and immovable property (Dutch Civil Code Book 3 and 7), all ancillary costs, including key money, must be explicitly and transparently stated in the purchase agreement. In Tilburg, where the housing market is vibrant due to the city's growth and its appeal to students and young families, this issue arises more frequently in transactions in neighborhoods such as the Reeshof or around the Spoorzone.

Key money is not a standard fee, except for duplicates for multiple residents. Reasons for reclamation in Tilburg: If the seller promised to install new locks but reused old keys, or if the amount exceeds the market-conform price (around €80 in the Midden-Brabant region). Contact the local Chamber of Commerce or a Tilburg notary for current prices.

Procedure: Send a registered letter with a demand for repayment immediately within 14 days after the transfer date. If refused? Initiate proceedings at the Rechtbank Oost-Brabant, location Tilburg, via a writ of summons. This is efficient and cost-effective for smaller amounts.

Example: A buyer in the Tilburg neighborhood Het Zand demanded €160 back after it turned out that old keys were handed over without new locks, despite promises in the oral agreements. The judge in Tilburg ruled in favor of the buyer, referring to misleading information and breach of the purchase agreement. Tip: Have a notary from Tilburg, such as one from the city center, thoroughly check the deed for hidden clauses. This way, you avoid unnecessary expenses in your home transaction in this dynamic city.