How to Rent a Home in Finland

Navigating the process of renting a home in Finland for the first time can feel overwhelming. Numerous questions might arise: Should I consult a lawyer? Are appliances typically included in rentals? How can I discover quality rental properties? Which neighborhoods will best suit my needs? These are just the tip of the iceberg. Dive in for answers to these pressing questions and gain insights from our members who've made Finland their home.

"Relocating to a new country can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to finding a place to live. If you're planning to move to Finland, this guide will provide you with all the necessary information about renting an apartment. From finding a rental property to understanding the legalities, we've got you covered.

How Do You Find a Rental Property in Finland?

There are several ways to find rental properties in Finland. Online platforms such as Oikotie, Vuokraovi, and Forenom are popular among locals and expats. You can also find listings in local newspapers or through real estate agencies. It's advisable to start your search early, especially in larger cities like Helsinki where the demand for rental properties is high.

Does Finland Have an MLS Type System?

Finland does not have a Multiple Listing Service (MLS) system like in the United States. However, most real estate agencies and online platforms provide comprehensive listings of available properties. These platforms are regularly updated and provide detailed information about each property, including photos, location, size, and price.

Do Brokers Have Licenses and How Do I Know if They Are Licensed?

In Finland, real estate brokers are required to have a license issued by the Regional State Administrative Agency. You can verify a broker's license by checking the public register on the agency's website. It's important to ensure that you're dealing with a licensed broker to protect your rights and interests.

Should I Buy or Rent in Finland?

The decision to buy or rent depends on your personal circumstances and long-term plans. Renting is a flexible option and requires less upfront capital, making it a popular choice for expats. However, if you plan to stay in Finland for a long time, buying a property could be a worthwhile investment.

What Documents Are Required When Renting an Apartment in Finland?

When renting an apartment in Finland, you'll need to provide your passport or ID, proof of income or employment, and sometimes a reference from a previous landlord. If you're a student, you may also need to provide a letter from your university. It's important to have these documents ready to speed up the rental process.

Do I Need a Lawyer When Renting an Apartment in Finland?

While it's not mandatory to have a lawyer when renting an apartment in Finland, it can be helpful, especially if you're unfamiliar with Finnish rental laws. A lawyer can review your lease agreement and ensure that your rights are protected. The cost of hiring a lawyer varies, but you can expect to pay around €200-€500.

How Long is the Typical Lease For?

The typical lease in Finland is for one year, but it can be shorter or longer depending on the agreement between the landlord and tenant. After the initial period, the lease usually continues indefinitely until either party terminates it.

Do I Have to Pay a Deposit?

Yes, it's common practice in Finland to pay a security deposit when renting an apartment. The deposit is usually equivalent to one to three months' rent and is returned to you at the end of the lease, provided there are no damages or unpaid rent.

What Other Upfront Costs Are There When Renting?

Other than the security deposit, you may also need to pay the first month's rent upfront. Some landlords may also charge a small fee for drawing up the lease agreement. It's important to clarify these costs before signing the lease.

Are Utilities Included?

Utilities are typically not included in the rent and are paid separately by the tenant. These include electricity, water, internet, and sometimes heating. The cost of utilities varies depending on the size of the apartment and usage, but they are generally affordable.

Are Furnished or Unfurnished Rentals More Popular?

Both furnished and unfurnished rentals are available in Finland. Furnished apartments usually include basic furniture and appliances such as a bed, sofa, refrigerator, and stove. Unfurnished apartments, on the other hand, may not include any furniture or appliances. The choice between furnished and unfurnished depends on your personal preference and budget," said one expat living in Finland.

Expats Talk about What Type of Housing They Live In

"Tower block in the suburbs but not nearly as grim as I imagined. It's clean, modern and there's even a washer and sauna room. Might be because it's subsidised young people's housing. All the other ex pats I know have had to take jobs as nannies/au pairs so they live with their employers," said one expat living in Helsinki.

Expats Talk about How they Found their Home

"I moved in with my partner so that was fairly simple. He's lived here most of his life," commented an expat living in Helsinki.

"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Finland is to use online rental platforms such as Vuokraovi.com or Tori.fi. You can also search for rental properties on the websites of local newspapers, such as Helsingin Sanomat or Aamulehti. Additionally, you can contact local real estate agents who specialize in rental properties. Finally, you can also look for rental properties on social media platforms such as Facebook or Instagram," said an expat in Finland.