ING invests in housing services by acquiring majority stake in Makelaarsland
20 February 2018
ING has acquired a 90% stake in Makelaarsland, a Dutch digital real estate platform. The acquisition contributes to ING’s ambition to empower people to stay a step ahead in life and in business by supporting customers at key moments in their lives with services that go beyond banking.
Makelaarsland is a digital platform that has changed the market for Dutch estate agents since its creation in 2005. Consumers can use the platform to buy and sell houses while saving on the usual broker fees
The website is visited by approximately 250,000 potential home owners and sellers every month. It provides useful information and multiple search options for people looking for a home. In 2017, Makelaarsland supported the sale of nearly 6,000 houses.
"Makelaarsland is an innovative, dynamic player in the brokerage world that fits ING's progressive character. Makelaarsland succeeded in putting a unique customer proposition on the market at a competitive price through a combination of personal contact and digital support. ING will help Makelaarsland to further develop this proposition. Our collaboration will contribute to delivering a better service to our customers," said Vincent van den Boogert, CEO of ING in the Netherlands.
Makelaarsland will continue to be a self-supporting and independent digital real estate platform after the acquisition. Makelaarsland founder and CEO Jeroen Stoop retains the remaining 10% stake.
“We are incredibly happy and proud. ING’s investment enables us to continue realising our dream of helping customers even better and further expanding our housing services,” Jeroen said.