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26 October 2026

Why We Focus on Existing Homes: Our Policy on New-Build Representation

If you are looking for guidance when buying a home, clarity matters from the start. Why We Focus on Existing Homes: Our Policy on New-Build Representation comes down to one simple principle: we choose to concentrate on the part of the market where our expertise, process and day-to-day experience create the most value for clients. At Spijker Makelaardij, that means existing residential properties in Almere.

We regularly help buyers and sellers navigate important decisions, pricing, negotiations, documentation and the route to transfer at the notary. But when it comes to new-build (off-plan) projects, we do not represent buyers. That policy is deliberate. It reflects the fact that new-build transactions involve different contracts and procedures and that our firm prefers to focus its expertise on the existing housing market.

In this article, you will learn what this policy means, why it exists, what kind of support we do provide, and how this focus benefits clients who want experienced guidance in Almere’s existing homes market.

What Is Our Policy on New-Build Representation?

Spijker Makelaardij does not represent buyers in new-build (off-plan) projects.

That means:

This distinction is important because buyers often assume that all residential purchases follow the same route. In practice, they do not. Existing homes and new-build properties may both end with a transfer, but the path there can differ significantly.

Why We Focus on Existing Homes

Our decision to focus on existing homes is rooted in specialization. Real estate advice is strongest when it is grounded in the market, the transaction type and the local context.

Spijker Makelaardij has been active in the Almere housing market for 30 years. Our experienced NVM real estate agents specialize in:

That focus is supported by extensive knowledge of Almere, its neighborhoods and local market developments. We combine practical market experience with professional expertise to provide well-founded advice throughout each transaction.

Existing homes require sharp local insight

When buying an existing home, the details of the immediate market matter. Price positioning, comparable properties, neighborhood appeal, supply and demand, transaction speed and the condition of a property all influence decision-making.

At Spijker Makelaardij, we look beyond average selling prices. We analyze:

We combine those insights with our daily experience in Almere to advise clients on price, positioning and timing. That kind of hands-on, local support is especially relevant in the market for existing homes.

New-build follows a different framework

New-build transactions involve different contracts and procedures. Because of that, they require a different type of representation. Rather than stretching our service into an area with its own structure, we choose to stay focused on the segment where our expertise is most established and most practical for clients.

That is not a limitation in quality. It is a choice for clarity, consistency and specialization.

What We Do Offer Buyers of Existing Homes

For buyers in the existing homes market, we provide comprehensive support from the first orientation to the final transfer.

Purchase guidance with a clear fixed fee

Our fee for purchase support is a fixed rate of €2,950 including VAT.

This applies whether you choose:

A portion of that fee is invoiced upfront as a registration amount, and the remainder is settled at completion via the notary.

What our purchase support includes

Our guidance for buyers includes support such as:

We do not offer a separate first-time buyer package, but first-time buyers do receive full support throughout the purchase process.

How Our Focus Benefits Clients

A clear service scope benefits clients in several ways. When you know exactly where an agency’s expertise lies, expectations are aligned from the beginning.

1. You get specialized guidance

By focusing on existing homes, we can give clients advice that is closely tied to the realities of that market in Almere. We understand neighborhood differences, local dynamics and what can influence living experience and property value.

We also look at the surroundings of a home, including:

That broader neighborhood view helps buyers make informed choices about more than the property alone.

2. You know what to expect

Our policy on new-build representation is straightforward. We do not handle that type of purchase representation, and we do not maintain a separate fee or service model for it.

For existing homes, the proposition is equally clear: a fixed purchase fee, defined guidance and personal support throughout the transaction.

3. You work with a team that is deeply rooted in Almere

Spijker Makelaardij was founded in 1996 and works in Dutch and English. We have built a strong local reputation in Almere, supported by high customer ratings, positive reviews and many assignments that come through recommendations from previous clients.

Our approach is personal and hands-on. We begin with a consultation to understand each client’s situation, goals and expectations. From there, we tailor the strategy to the client, the property and current market conditions.

What Sets Our Approach Apart

A real estate transaction is not just about listing or viewing a home. It is also about communication, judgment and careful guidance at each step.

Personal involvement

At Spijker Makelaardij, clients receive:

This personal involvement is part of our identity. We are known for strong client involvement, full-service support and good accessibility.

Professional standards and compliance

As an NVM real estate agent, we work according to professional quality standards. We also ensure that transactions are handled in accordance with applicable Dutch laws, regulations and NVM professional standards.

Our guidance includes attention to:

Where needed, we refer clients to specialized professionals.

In addition to sales and purchase guidance, we also provide NWWI-validated valuations. Our professional registrations include NRVT and VastgoedCert.

This broader expertise supports our practical understanding of pricing, property value and market positioning in Almere.

Frequently Asked Questions About This Policy

Does Spijker Makelaardij represent buyers in new-build projects?

No. Spijker Makelaardij does not represent buyers in new-build (off-plan) projects.

Why not?

Because new-build transactions involve different contracts and procedures, and we prefer to focus our expertise on the existing housing market.

Do you have a fee for new-build purchase representation?

No. Because we do not represent buyers in off-plan projects, no fees or service conditions are available for that service.

Do you help buyers of existing homes?

Yes. We offer purchase guidance for existing homes at a fixed rate of €2,950 including VAT.

Do you help expat clients?

Yes. We are experienced in assisting international buyers and sellers and communicate in English and Dutch. The same transparent pricing and service conditions apply to expatriate and Dutch clients.

Practical Tips for Buyers Deciding Between Existing Homes and New-Build

If you are comparing different routes to homeownership, it helps to define your priorities early.

Ask yourself these questions

  1. Do you want guidance in the existing homes market?
    If so, a local specialist with daily experience in Almere can help assess value, neighborhood fit and negotiation strategy.

  2. Are you considering a new-build project specifically?
    Then it is important to work with the right type of specialist for that transaction model.

  3. How important is neighborhood insight?
    Existing homes often require a detailed understanding of the street, district and comparable properties nearby.

  4. Do you want support from viewing to transfer?
    A full-service process can make complex decisions more manageable.

What to prepare before your first conversation

To make a consultation more productive, it helps to think about:

These basics create a strong starting point for practical, tailored advice.

If this policy is relevant to your search, you may also want to explore related topics such as:

Together, these services reflect the area where our expertise is strongest: residential property transactions in Almere’s existing homes market.

Conclusion: Clarity Creates Better Guidance

Why We Focus on Existing Homes: Our Policy on New-Build Representation is ultimately about being clear about where we add the most value. Spijker Makelaardij does not represent buyers in new-build (off-plan) projects because those transactions involve different contracts and procedures. Instead, we focus on what we know best: existing residential properties in Almere.

That focus allows us to offer practical advice, local market insight, personal guidance and a clear purchase service at a fixed rate of €2,950 including VAT. For buyers and sellers who want an experienced, approachable and locally rooted real estate partner, that specialization matters.

If you are planning to buy or sell an existing home in Almere, or if you need a NWWI-validated valuation, contact Spijker Makelaardij for a personal consultation. You can visit us at Marktmeesterstraat 45, 1315 GA Almere and discuss how we can support your next step with clear advice and hands-on guidance.