Krimpen aan den IJssel: Houses on the Rotterdam Fringe

Krimpen is a mostly residential town with a waterfront, marinas and dyke-side streets, with Rotterdam and the port a short drive or ride away. Capelle aan den IJssel, directly across the river, offers a metro link into the city.

It appeals to Rotterdam workers who want a quieter life, and the river frontage gives it a distinctive feel. Check flood defences and parking.

Foreign buyers face no restrictions, but bidding can push prices above asking. Hire a buyer's agent and a notary, and note the three-day cooling-off period after the contract. Transfer tax is 2% for your own home and 8% otherwise.

River-clay soil means foundations deserve a survey. See our Netherlands buying guide and mortgage guide.

Krimpen sits behind dykes along tidal rivers and is managed by a regional water board, which charges an annual levy. Ask about foundation piles and pumps for houses near the water, and check which streets are close to the busy road bridges. The metro link in Capelle across the river is a selling point, so confirm how long it takes to reach from the specific street you are considering.

Capelle aan den IJssel, Ridderkerk, Nieuwerkerk aan den IJssel, Barendrecht, Alblasserdam and Hendrik-Ido-Ambacht are all in the Rotterdam region. See Netherlands property.