Is it permissible to purchase a house in the Netherlands through an interest-bearing bank loan, knowing that the tax office pays the interest, and given the lack of other purchase options and the desire to own a home instead of renting for approximately the same monthly cost?

The fatwa we follow is that it is impermissible to purchase homes through bank financing that involves usury (riba), whether in Muslim countries or elsewhere, because borrowing with usury is one of the greatest major sins. Even if the tax office were to pay the usury, this does not permit entering into a usurious contract except in cases of extreme necessity, such as fear of perishing. Purchasing a home is not considered a necessity, as the need for housing can be met through renting or similar means.