HERMAN CAN MAKE MIRACLES HAPPEN

I was already looking for an apartment for a very long time when I came across Herman. At that point I was disappointed, stressed, exhausted and hopeless. I knew that I needed more than just a regular real estate agent. I needed someone who could help me in my desperate situation, with this impossible mission of finding a home in the Netherlands. I needed the best of the best. I needed Herman.

After I sent my first message he replied immediately (during the weekend!) and was very upfront about everything, which I really liked. Shortly after that we also met in person. From the first moment he was very nice, open and friendly, I had a feeling that I could talk to him easily like we already knew each other for a long time. We talked a lot, even though he is a very busy man (which I found out much later how busy he actually is), he took the time to get to know me and I just had the feeling that he "got me" when literally no one else did. He understood my situation perfectly and he was very empathetic. Sometimes I also felt like he could read my mind. He noticed everything and he remembered everything, even much later, about me, about others, about all the apartments, everything, I think he might have superpowers.

Herman is also very honest and direct, he always has an opinion on everything and is not afraid to share it. And he is always right. About everything. Now I know.

Furthermore, he is also very polite, respectful, and truly an old-fashioned gentleman. He treated me like I was more than just a client, he really went the extra mile for me, he cared about me, even though he has probably hundreds of other people to care about. He has an enormous group of friends and I can understand why; he cares deeply, he has a heart of gold, which is extremely rare nowadays and something to cherish.

Herman always had a very uplifting presence, I truly enjoyed the viewings with him. It really showed that for him this is more than just work, it is his hobby and he has fun while doing it. He was very laid-back, joking around but he also taught me a lot; pointing out things I didn't notice, patiently explaining things I didn't know. I was also very surprised how he barely had to look at the apartment, he knew and saw everything, and I mean absolutely everything down to every single little detail. That's what so many years of experience looks like. A true professional. He also flagged when something was wrong. I remember once we were in a viewing for an older apartment, I thought it was fine but he saw something about the heating and he said "I will not let you live here". And we walked out.

I think Herman knew exactly what I wanted and what I did not want. He knew it better than me even though I really thought I knew. He still knew it better. He could probably sense it when deep down I did not really want an apartment, so he did not waste much energy on it. In retrospective I know that that was it. In the moment I sometimes thought he was not paying attention to me but that was not the case. Quite the opposite actually. He just knew that something better was coming for me. He had my best interest at heart.

There were times when I was doubting if I will ever get a home in my life and those were very tough feelings to deal with. At times I was feeling devastated and losing all hope. Herman tried to cheer me up every time I lost a bid and he encouraged me to go on. I was doubting but somehow kept going. Then I was at the point of giving up completely when I finally won the bidding and got the apartment!!!

Then the process of arranging the documents was well-controlled by Herman, he managed everything quietly in the background and involved the right parties at the right time. I did not have to do much, just collect and sign documents and reply to some emails. Without Herman I would have been so lost.

All in all, this whole process was a bit of a bumpy road for me, an emotional rollercoaster with a lot of ups and downs, a lot of hoping and doubting, countless viewings and biddings, then a lot of worrying, but Herman was there and he helped me through all of it. He was always available to support me. And he was very calm and patient with me, dedicated a lot of time to me, handled my frustration and impatience perfectly, and he also managed well my need to control everything. And he never gave up.

In the end he made the biggest miracle happen; I got my dream home...no, wait...it is even better than in my dreams, it exceeded all my expectations, and it is truly the best apartment from all the numerous apartments I have seen during my long search. It is wonderful, it is perfect and it is mine. I could not be happier! I will be forever thankful to Herman, I know that I could have never ever succeeded without him. It's an indescribable feeling, I am still pinching myself, I cannot believe that after all this time I finally have a HOME.

One word that describes Herman – BRILLANT!

We first came across Herman as a recommendation from two of our best friends, they described Herman as original, but someone that gets the job done!

Herman is a forward-thinking property specialist at the top of his game, being witness to his in-depth understanding of the industry and how best to match us and our budget with suitable premises is a testament to his knowledge, skill, and personality.

From our first meeting, we were quite impressed by his ability to quickly interpret what we are after and to help us develop a plan on how to get our results. Herman’s honesty and integrity are above reproach - these creditable qualities are commensurate with his positive reputation.

Herman is extremely knowledgeable on all facets of the property hence his success to date and continued success in the future.

Putting all the professional qualities aside, Herman found us our dream home in just 3 months! He has a heart of gold, and we now consider him as part of our closest friends. I would not have any hesitation in recommending Herman’s services to anyone we know.

There is no word to describe my deep appreciation to you. I can spend a whole day writing you papers and papers for the testimonials. You are unique and too good to be true :) Thanks a lot and I hope my below testimonial would make you smile and be proud of what you have done. You bring me lots of happiness.

Herman is more than just a ‘makelaar’. As an expat who has lived in the Netherlands for the past 5 years, and in that has had to move 6 times, I certainly know how difficult it is to find a place to call home in the challenging Dutch housing market. Therefore, when I decided to buy my first home, I knew I had to find someone to help me get everything just right from the start. Luckily I found Herman!I reached out to Herman in the beginning of 2022 and after 1 month, we found an apartment I previously could only have dreamed of. A beautiful home close to Amsterdam, which even had a garden! Both me and my family, and especially our dogs, immediately fell in love with the home.

Herman made the buying process go so smoothly that at one point I thought to myself that buying a house was easier for me than traveling during the coronavirus pandemic. He helped me to negotiate an amazing purchase price. The moment he told me that our bid won, was one of the best moments of my life.

Together with their amazing team, Herman and Lonneke helped me to secure a very advantageous mortgage. Herman and the team possess all the qualities necessary to help his clients get the dream home: market knowledge, great communication, patience, and people skills.

Above all else, after working with him, I not only get a home, but also a friend and a life coach.

“We don’t just buy bricks, but find you a home”

There is a lot behind this slogan, there are trust, honest, care, happiness, and love!. I can’t tell how much easy finding my home was with Herman!. Not just easy but also fun and memorable. Finding your home with Herman would be like hanging out with a good friend who really cares for you!. Before I meet Herman, I had unfortunate experience with two brokers which was so frustrating. But from the first message that I sent to Herman on WhatsApp, I felt and saw the difference. He listens carefully to your needs and gives you even more than what you would ask for.

Even though my case was tricky as I had limited time and I wanted to find my home before I travel abroad. Herman said we will do it and we did it in a very short time. Finding my lovely home was easy and possible with him. All he needed was trust and only trust and he will make you happy!.

Dear Herman, those words can’t show my appreciation enough for what you have done for me. Everybody searching for a home really deserves someone like you to help. I wish you make more and more people happy because I know how much you love and enjoy making people happy. I feel really special having you as a friend! Thanks.

I was already without hopes to find a place in Amsterdam when I met Herman. He was referred to me through a friend and everyday I thank the universe for that. The Amsterdam housing market is extremely difficult and deceitful, and you really need help from someone who has a lot of experience and is a great negotiator. By the first time I met Herman, I told him what I wanted, where I wanted to live and how my house would have to look like. It is funny to think that I was hopeless and I thought I would never find that, but in the end he found me a place exactly to what I described to him. I am extremely grateful to Herman for helping me to make my dream to have a place in Amsterdam come true! Herman took care of everything and the only thing I had to do was sign the papers. That was very important for me as I am very busy with work and just couldn't waste my time reviewing and collecting all documentation. The help of his team member, Vinícius, was also a great asset to me, as he could answer my questions or just talk to me when I was too anxious. Herman and the Expats at Home team are very competent and ethical professionals and I would recommend them to anyone who wants to buy a house.

Once again, thank you, Herman, for making my dream come true and I am really happy that besides having a new house, I have a new friend.

When thinking back in time, in March 2020, I believe I made one of my best decisions I ever made by contacting Herman. I got a recommendation from my friends that he is the right person to work with and I can't agree with them more after I got to know and work with Herman.

It was my biggest resolution of this year, to buy an apartment in Amsterdam, which wouldn't be achieved without the intervention of Herman. Not only do I feel that I bought the right one but I also had a lot of fun during the process.

Little I knew about the Amsterdam real estate market, but I did not get intimidated due to the fact Herman was there for me during all the steps. Buying an apartment, moreover the first one, can be imagined as a stressful process, but for me was nothing else than a relaxing process just because I had the right person by my side, Herman.

Herman, with his tremendous patience, had long and ongoing conversations with me, to get to know me and to know what I was really looking for and what could be the best match for me, without me actually knowing it.

As soon as I met Herman, he gave me the feeling that I could fully trust him and he knows what he is doing. He shares his thoughts in an open manner and he is honest when sharing his opinion on the property. He is loyal, caring and he is an unique human being.

I never thought that my "unusual" agent will get to be my buddy. Herman is an amazing human being that I had the pleasure to share this journey. I will always remember with a pleasure the process of buying my first apartment and the biggest part is because working with him.

As promised, here is my public apology for calling you arrogant when you claim you are the best. I take it back, you are not arrogant, you are just the best!!!

Thanks for everything and I will end my testimonial with an expression which I think suits you so much:

"You are entirely bonkers. But I'll tell you a secret. All the best people are.” - Alice in Wonderland

Precise and stubborn in a good way are the first things that you get when you work with Herman. And both of these things comes from over 2 decades of experience, expertise and skin in the game. And, it counts. After over 2 years of mindless searching, during our very first meeting which lasted few hours, Herman asked me precise questions not just about my preferences but also about my life plans, my personality and the reasons of making this step. And this clarified a lot of requirements and why for both of us. He took trouble to go over all my own research and help me get a headaway as to how I should be assessing a property rationally. Over time, the trust builds up and you start counting on his stubbornness.

And he really listened to my wishlish, and had my housing needs all clear. We had only 5 viewings and all almost similar to my taste, and soon I found my place just the way I wanted. He took the cues from my grin at the time of the viewing, and negotiated all the way to help me secure the bid. And, all along I had overwhelming thoughts on do I actually need a big place, could I afford it, what if I am making a mistake? Herman knew when to offer emotional support, and took his time to talk me through the specifics on numbers, and quality of living and how this is going to be a fine purchase. He lists out the facts how they are.

And the sheer effort that he put into securing the mortgage is exemplary. Always available, always approachable, always answering your 1000+ questions with the same poise and smile. Every bit of paperwork, and transfer process seemed like a breeze. It may seem he has thousand clients at a time and is always busy, but in the background there was a lot happening for my needs and that was reassuring. As a first-time home-owner, expat, alone,I am forever grateful for his professionalism topped with a friendly support and sage like advice at all moments of doubt/euphoria/impatience/anxiety.Thank you, Herman!

I cannot recommend his services enough. If you are looking to get a home, he is the guy to get on your speeddial. And of course, you will have to earn his time and trust and not only the other way around. But that's what is exciting about the whole process, making it less transactional and burdensome. Buying is an emotional roller coaster and if you are not careful it can be a nerve wrecking experience too especially in a supercompetitive real estate market. But If you have Herman in your corner, you can trust him to not just find a place but a home!

Before I even met Herman in person, I had already heard from multiple people that he was simply “the” guy to work with if you wanted to buy a place in Amsterdam fast. We had our first meeting at the office and, while we talked, there was a constant procession of people stopping by to greet him, hug him, shake his hand or set up their next appointment with him. Soon enough, I discovered first-hand that there were good reasons for his reputation among my colleagues at Booking. I was not disappointed in the slightest.

Before asking me about my requirements for an apartment or talking about business, Herman made sure he asked me all the important questions –what type of person I was, what sort of life I was envisioning for myself, and why I wanted to take this next step in my life. He wanted to get to know me first, before giving me any advice on such an important topic.

In that first meeting, Herman promised me sincerity at all costs, and sincerity he has delivered ever since – which was exactly what I needed, given I was navigating this major life decision virtually on my own, being a young, single expat who had no idea about the intricacies of the Amsterdam housing market. He helped me throughout the whole process of weeding out apartments that would not suit me as a person, or that would not make for a good investment. He came to viewings with me and advised me wisely on what not to buy.

Then, finally, one day the two of us went to view an apartment which gave me butterflies in my stomach. I was smiling from ear to ear as I paced around the living room, and Herman immediately recognized how I was feeling without me having to say anything. As we walked out, I was enchanted, but at the same time all my worries started to flood me – this apartment was at the limit of my budget, what if I could not really afford it? What if I regretted my choice later? What if something was wrong with the house which I had not noticed? But Herman already understood how much I really wanted the place, how right it was for my needs, and he even had an amazing surprise in store. The next morning, he called me and informed me that he’d negotiated with the owners and bought me the place for asking price. He also did a fantastic job of reassuring me, and helping me reassure my parents (who had a lot of opinions of their own), until I finally started trusting the process.

It’s been a few weeks since that life-changing moment and, thanks to Herman, over this short period I have been able to secure a mortgage for my house (without me having to worry about anything other than to put my signature on a lot of paperwork) and I am already planning for my moving-in date (which is coming up in the next couple weeks). Without his practical and emotional support, I probably would not have had the confidence to actually follow through on such a major decision (or I would have made a mess in the process).

I will be forever grateful to Herman for his professionalism, his endless availability, his wise advice, and his willingness to truly go above and beyond for his customers. I could not recommend his services enough, and I know for a fact that, should I ever want to buy another house in the Netherlands, I would want no other broker than him.

Based on what we had heard about house hunting in Amsterdam, we never thought buying a house would be so simple- and quick. And we can’t thank Herman enough for making it a wonderful experience. It took mere 5 days from the first meeting to finalizing the house; and he was always available for any advice we wanted.

Knowing that he understood us well and had our best interests at heart, we could trust him completely throughout the process and that’s what made it so hassle-free. We are about to sign a beautiful apartment- and we can’t wait to move in. We had heard great things about Herman and all of them were so true. Despite being so busy, Herman gave us so much personal attention that we never felt like one of many customers. We are delighted that we had the opportunity to work with him.

Thank you Herman for everything

The first words that come to mind when I think of Herman are responsive and effective. These are qualities that you absolutely need in your corner when entering the Amsterdam real estate market.

I had approached Herman with a very narrow search area in central Amsterdam (Oud-West and De Pijp) and a tight timeframe. I wanted to purchase a place in the next 2 weeks. To add one more constraint, I was looking for a ‘deal’, i.e. a fixer-upper that would get my foot in the door in one of Amsterdam’s most happening neighborhoods.

Herman humored me, and accompanied me on a few of viewings of these ‘bargain’ properties. He pointed out structural and foundation issues of the property and the neighboring buildings. He also helped to rule out a few potentials entirely (saving me a viewing), because he knew that the leasehold was up for renewal too soon to land a mortgage. He was very clear in stating that if I wanted to buy a money pit, I’d have to find a different broker. You can trust Herman to steer you towards a good investment, even when you’re in the thick of viewings and dreaming of potential.

In addition to reading between the lines on Funda listings and patiently guiding me towards a solid investment, Herman’s expertise in negotiation and network connections within the Amsterdam makelaar arena ensured that I landed the apartment I wanted, narrowly beating out other bidders and investors.

The mortgage brokerage and signing process were seamless, as Herman offers a full service in this area, scheduling all appointments and handling the paperwork for you. If I had known buying in Amsterdam could be this painless, I would have called Herman sooner!

I’ve been living in Amsterdam for a few years before I decided to buy a place of my own. I thought that with the available information and asking friends, I could do it without an agent, Some ether friends made it. But after seeing 30+ places and a few failed offers, I felt overwhelmed and gave up. So when I decided to do this again in a heated real estate market, it was quite evident that I needed the professional help.

Herman came highly recommended, as I was told that he found a place for in about two weeks. My process took a bit longer, but not for lack of trying. I had a few conditions, and with such an investment I was quite picky.

But throughout all that, Herman was extremely helpful and patient. At some point I was feeling guilty for not going forward with a place, but he was very reassuring and encouraged me to do what feels right. And this made all the difference. Because in the end, I managed to find the perfect place, in the perfect area, for a price I couldn’t have negotiated on my own.

So the extra investment more than paid for itself. He took care of everything related to papers and taxes and other arrangements, so I didn’t have to worry about anything.

Buying a house is a stressful process, but I’m happy I had Herman to guide me through it.

Description text goes hereTo put things short for lazy readers we can say: Do it with Herman! He doesn’t just buy you bricks but a house and he means it.

For diligent readers we share our story… Herman was not the first advisor we approached. Previously we talked to a few who made us believe that our case was to keep renting for as long as market in the Netherlands is unsettled. Does anyone here foresee the Dutch real estate market to settle any time soon? No, neither did we.

We found Herman thanks a friend’s advice. Our first contact with him was on July 11th and on August 9th we were igning the purchase contract for our beautiful house – fitting all our expectations and budget, and just 20km away from Amsterdam in a quiet and lovely neighbourhood of Purmerend. Despite the small amount of time between initial contact and purchase, Herman devoted much time to us. He paid us a few visits trying to understand our family, our needs, as well as the needs of our then 6 year old daughter. He really feels what will suit you. Just keep your cards open and you will get the dream house you truly deserve. Once we were decided about our choice, he made the magic happen and got a house sold to us at the requested and expected price. It appears buying a house can actually be no stress. Besides being professional in purchases, Herman also gives professional advice in all bank, finance, mortgage, insurance, etc issues. So, really no headache for you. He will cover it all. We really enjoyed and are thankful for our cooperation. Wishing all the future house owners’ the same luck with Expats at home!

I started my year thinking about buying a property in Amsterdam to live in, without full certainty about commiting for such a big decision.

After meeting Herman Gommer, from Expats at Home, for an introductory coffee, he helped me find the answers to most of the questions that were in my mind. He advised me on what the implications of buying in Amsterdam are, what my mortgage could be, but most important: he took the time to get to know me well, so he knew better than me what I was looking for.

This was great! As he also guided me in the process of searching websites such as funda, on the search for a place.

Only 2 weeks later, and no more than 2 house viewings, I got my place!!! Asking price, 12min from the station, huge space and with the “gezellig” (as dutchies say for “cozy”) feeling of home; this is what he does: he helps expats find a home rather than just a house.

Herman helps you right from the start of knowing what you want, to the big day when signing and getting your keys. He makes the whole process for you effortless by taking care of the paper work, mortgage, bidding, and much more!

He has a big heart and truly cares about all his clients, which I believe at the end become good friends as well :)

I definitely recommend you write Herman a message and have a coffee with him - he will get back to you on whatsapp as well!

Shortly after Verna & I moved from Shanghai to Amsterdam we started thinking about buying a property, as rent in Amsterdam is extremely high and interest levels at an all-time low. We had a look at some properties, but got lost in the processes of bidding wars, and the resulting slim chances to get the apartment we wanted. After keeping ourselves busy with work and other things for another 2 years, we finally got searching again for a potential object to buy.

After 2 failed bidding attempts, I got to know Herman at an apartment viewing and we sat together immediately to discuss our wishes and his proposed services! 4 weeks (!!!) later we signed the purchasing contract of the apartment we live in now! We are very happy with the apartment and having made this big step in our lives! Herman is extremely knowledgeable and efficient about all the process: Filtering for appropriate properties, arranging the viewings, getting into the negotiations, bid placing and even at organizing the mortgage, notary appointments up to the final key hand-over!

While of course everything was new and emotional for us, he was always at our side, to support us with his expertise, but also his spirit! It is very comforting to have someone, who is fighting for your cause like he does!

We are very grateful to have met Herman as our advisor, but also as the special person he is!