haarlemsdagbladApr 25, 2026, 17:00

After 11 viewings, 9 bids and 8 rejections, Daan (28) lands his dream home in Haarlem: 'Below asking price'

Daan Geuke, a 28-year-old first-time buyer, successfully purchased a home on Houtplein in Haarlem after participating in eleven viewings and making nine bids. Despite a challenging housing market, he managed to secure the property for less than the asking price and is scheduled to move in by December 2025.

Economy Lifestyle Haarlem Netherlands

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Based on reporting by haarlemsdagblad. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

Farmer and toy seller: why be a farmer if you can't make a living from it?

The Houdijk family in Abbenes keeps their farm running by supplementing crop production with a successful toy shop and off-farm employment. Despite the financial instability of the agricultural sector, the next generation remains committed to continuing the family business because of their passion for the lifestyle.

ETIAS travel authorization not yet mandatory, but fake websites are already offering them

Authorities warn that over 150 fraudulent websites are currently offering fake ETIAS travel authorizations, despite the official system not yet being active. Travelers are advised that when the program launches in 2027, they should only use the designated official European Union website to avoid financial scams and data theft.

Westeinder campsite residents back in court: 'compensation too low'

Residents of Camping De Westeinder have returned to court in Haarlem to challenge the inadequate compensation offered by developer Kleen Estate for their forced relocation. Many residents rely on the park for permanent housing due to the local housing crisis and argue that the current offers are insufficient to cover relocation costs or provide alternative shelter.

Too Good To Go adds plants and shampoo to its magic boxes

The anti-waste platform Too Good To Go is expanding its 'Magic Box' offerings beyond food to include items like plants, shampoo, and home goods. Since its launch in the Netherlands eight years ago, the company has saved 40 million meals and aims to further reduce retail waste through new retail partnerships.

Chatterbox Roderik connects people with each other

Roderik Schaepman has launched the Week of the Conversation, an initiative aimed at encouraging social interaction to combat loneliness and declining communication skills. By setting up designated spaces at locations like the Haarlem train station, he encourages people to overcome social hesitation through simple steps like greeting and complimenting strangers.