Bridging Cultures: Lessons from a Dutch Investor in the UK Property Market
Entering a new real estate market is always an adventure, but for international investors, it’s also a cross-cultural experience. As a Netherlands-based investor, I’ve learned first-hand that cultural differences play a bigger role in property investing than many realize.
In the Netherlands, we tend to operate from what’s known as a “feminine culture”, one that values collaboration, equality, and consensus. The UK, by contrast, has a more “masculine culture,” where assertiveness, competition, and achievement are often the driving forces in business.
Neither is better or worse — but the difference can create unexpected friction if you’re unaware of it.
When Worlds Collide: Communication & Expectations
When I first started investing in the UK property market, I ran into several challenges. It wasn’t about bad intentions or unprofessional behavior, it was simply that we approached business differently.
For example, communication styles can differ: where Dutch investors value openness and direct dialogue, UK professionals might prefer a more reserved, relationship-based approach. Without recognizing this, it’s easy for misunderstandings to occur about timelines, expectations, or accountability.
A Real Example from the Field
During one of my early projects in Wales, I hired a contractor who wanted to keep his pipeline full, a common practice in the UK to ensure steady work and income for everyone involved.
However, this well-intentioned approach had consequences. The project, originally scheduled for three months, stretched to almost a year. This delay happened during the COVID period, when site visits were difficult and communication was limited.
It wasn’t about poor workmanship, it was about different ways of managing time and commitments. That experience taught me the importance of working with high-performing UK companies who take pride in their name and reputation. These are the partners who deliver on time, protecting both your investment and your financing structure, especially when projects are backed by bridging loans with tight deadlines.
Building Cultural Awareness into Your Investment Strategy
The lesson?
Success in cross-border property investment isn’t just about numbers, yields, and returns. It’s about understanding how culture shapes business behavior.
When we invest with cultural awareness, acknowledging our different roots and ways of working, we can build stronger partnerships, avoid costly delays, and create more sustainable success in the long term.
