Overbidding in 2026: How much above the asking price is realistic?
June 12, 2026 Makelaar Team
The current housing market still sees overbidding. We show how much above the asking price is common by region and how to make a strong offer without overpaying.
# Overbidding in 2026: How much above the asking price is realistic?
The housing market in 2026 has cooled somewhat, but in popular regions, overbidding is still common. How much you should offer heavily depends on location, property type, and competition.
## Average Overbids by Region (Q1 2026)
| Region | Average above asking price |
|---|---|
| Amsterdam | +6.8% |
| Utrecht | +5.4% |
| Eindhoven | +4.9% |
| Rotterdam | +3.7% |
| The Hague | +3.2% |
| National average | +2.1% |
Source: NVM/Brainbay market figures.
## When overbidding makes sense
- **Many viewings** in the first weekend (15+) → multiple offers expected
- **Priced below market value** to attract bids
- **Scarce property** (single-family home with garden in a city)
- **Long queue** at open houses
## When NOT to overbid
- Property has been for sale for 4+ weeks
- Asking price is clearly too high (compare with neighborhood prices)
- Structural defects that provide negotiation room later
- Your financing is just barely sufficient
## Smart bidding without overpaying
1. **Compare with recently sold properties** in the street (Cadastre data)
2. **Bid strategically** — a round number (€510,000) often loses to €511,500
3. **Limit resolutive conditions** — keep financing, consider a building inspection
4. **Short response time** makes your offer more attractive to the seller
## Let a buying agent review
An experienced buying agent knows the local market and understands when a property is realistically priced. [Read more about our buying service](/aankoopmakelaar).