Real Estate in Norway

"The best way to find a place to live in Norway is by researching online. You can check popular websites such as Finn.no, Boligbygg, or Leilighetsnett for available housing in the particular area you are interested in. Additionally, you could reach out to local housing agencies and real estate specialists to help with your search. Another option is to get in contact with colleagues and friends in Norway who may know of potential opportunities or could help you in your search," said one person in Norway.

"We live in the center of Oslo because it is close to the train and bus stations for us to get to work- it also has a great balcony. We also wanted two large bedrooms, and a w/d in the flat which can be tricky to find in older flats," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Oslo.

"I live in a huge former old peoples' home except I don't live in it. There's no work for me near the house and I don't live in Norway though I work there and pay tax there. 22 years in Norway and I've had a residence permit for about 9 months. Most expats in the area? Most live in "normal" houses. I didn't have much choice," explained one expat living in Skei i Jolster, Norway.

"The average cost of housing in Norway is generally quite expensive, with prices in the major cities typically above the national average. Renting accommodation can be especially costly, while purchasing a home is also quite expensive, partly due to high property taxes," said one expat in Norway.

"I've never owned a house in the UK, just a holiday home. My house in Jolster is classed as a holiday home as well but it would be unfair to compare them. I'm quite certain my housing costs are massive compared to the UK. I'd estimate you need four times your UK salary to have the same standard of living in Norway. 38% will go in tax. Staple foods are twice the price. Winters are long and cold and much water is frozen driving up the price of hydro electricity. If you put a value on the time you will have to spend working out if you live in Norway or the UK, dealing with residency and citizen issues, translating documents, dealing with legacy issues from the UK that are hard to resolve until residency and citizenship issues in Norway have been settled (in my case, not settled after 22 years) you need to earn 6 times the UK salary and forget having the time to take a holiday (which would invalidate any claims you might have to living in Norway anyway)," remarked one member in Skei i Jolster.

"When it comes to living in Norway, buying a home may be the most cost effective and flexible long-term option. Home ownership can give you the stability and freedom to make your home a reflection of your own personal style. On the other hand, renting a home in Norway typically has lower upfront costs and offers more flexibility as you can move frequently if necessary. You should assess your lifestyle and financial situation to decide which option is right for you," said one person in Norway.

"1. You will need to get a Norwegian tax number and register yourself with the Norwegian Tax Administration. 2. There are different regulations for foreigners buying property in Norway. Make sure to check these before proceeding. 3. It is recommended to get a professional, such as a lawyer or a notary, to help you secure the property and ensure that all legal requirements are met. 4. You will need to consider the cost of utilities, such as water, electricity, heat and sewerage, when determining the purchase price of a property. 5. Buyers must pay a transfer tax, called stamp duty, which is levied on the purchase of most property types in Norway. 6. You will need to consider any additional fees and taxes, such as capital gains tax, property tax, and transfer fees. 7. When negotiating the purchase of a property, it is advised that you get an independent property valuation to ensure that the price you are paying is reasonable. 8. You should be prepared to pay a deposit upon signing the purchase agreement, and the balance within a specified period afterwards," said one in Norway.

"Yes, foreigners are allowed to own property in Norway. However, they must obtain permission from the Norwegian government before they can purchase real estate. This permission is usually granted if the foreigner can demonstrate that they have a legitimate reason for wanting to purchase property in Norway, such as having a job or business in the country. Additionally, the property must be used for personal use and not for commercial purposes," said one in Norway.

"In Norway, rental homes typically include a refrigerator, stove, oven, dishwasher and a washer and dryer. In some cases, the rental may also include other small kitchen appliances such as a microwave or coffee maker. In addition, many rental properties will come with air conditioning, heating, and other amenities such as TV, cable, and internet access," explained one person living in Norway.

"Expats can search for homes in Norway by looking at online listings, contacting real estate agents, and attending open houses. They can also search for rental properties by looking at classified ads, asking friends and family for recommendations, and searching online for rental listings. Additionally, expats can look for furnished apartments or homes through short-term rental websites," explained one expat in Norway.