Housing Crisis in the Netherlands Worsens Due to Political Plans
Top housing experts warn that misguided political proposals are worsening the Netherlands’ housing crisis, as reported by AD.
Despite housing being high on the political agenda since 2017, the situation continues to deteriorate. Four leading Dutch housing experts—Peter Boelhouwer, Friso de Zeeuw, Jan Rouwendal, and Desiree Uitzetter—are now sounding the alarm. In an open letter to politicians, they accuse both left- and right-wing parties of offering short-sighted, unrealistic solutions that risk deepening the crisis.
“I’m a bit shocked by some of the statements party leaders are making,” said Boelhouwer, professor of Housing Systems. “They spout off-the-cuff claims that may actually worsen the situation.”
Short-Term Thinking, Long-Term Problems
Boelhouwer pointed to the VVD’s plan to give first-time buyers financial support as an example of how well-intentioned measures could backfire. “It only increases price pressure without expanding the housing supply,” he told AD.
Left-wing parties also came under criticism for excessive regulation of housing prices and social housing construction. “There’s too much zigzagging in housing policy,” Boelhouwer added. “Meanwhile, permits for new construction are plummeting, and issues like nitrogen emissions, water regulations, and power grid congestion continue to stall development.”
The experts argue that without real investment and consistent leadership, the Dutch housing shortage will only get worse.
What Needs to Happen: A Realistic Roadmap
The group of experts proposes a straightforward but tough set of reforms:
Reinstate central government leadership on housing policy to replace piecemeal, city-led initiatives.
Plan 1.8 million new homes, using large-scale development strategies similar to the historical Vinex neighbourhoods.
Invest €1.5 billion annually in infrastructure and public transport—triple the current budget—to support housing expansion.
Simplify building regulations and permitting to reduce development delays.
Allow greater housing flexibility, such as room rentals, subdividing homes, and more industrialised construction methods.
One major sticking point is the current rule requiring two-thirds of new housing to be “affordable.” The experts argue this slows down overall supply and advocate returning to a one-third quota for social housing instead.
Breaking the Taboo: Ending Mortgage Interest Deduction
Perhaps their boldest proposal is to phase out the mortgage interest deduction—a politically sensitive tax benefit—over 15 years, starting with the most expensive properties.
“This could save up to €6 billion annually,” De Zeeuw told AD. “That money should go toward affordable housing, infrastructure, and compensating middle-income families.”
Though this move is unpopular with voters, the experts insist it's a necessary step to stop housing prices from spiralling further out of control. "That taboo really needs to be broken," said De Zeeuw.
“We Need Action, Not Promises”
The authors of the open letter warn that both sides of the political spectrum are drifting too far into extremes, risking a loss of public trust and deeper disillusionment among citizens. “We don't want more empty promises,” said De Zeeuw. “We want real steps toward real solutions.”
As the Netherlands prepares for its next election in three months, the experts hope their message forces politicians to shift from populist pledges to pragmatic planning. The alternative, they warn, is another five years of headlines—and hardship—for those stuck in the housing crisis.