Buying a Home in Finland: Essential Practical Guide for Expats

Purchasing property in Finland is an accessible, well-regulated process that many expats find reassuring. This guide walks you through the key steps, financing options, legal considerations, and practical tips to help you buy with confidence — whether you’re looking for an apartment in Helsinki, a family home outside the city, or a seasonal cottage.

Why Buy in Finland as an Expat?

Finland offers stable property markets, transparent transactions, and a high quality of life. As an expat, buying can be an excellent way to settle, build equity, and integrate into the community. Local services are efficient, contracts are straightforward, and the Finnish system emphasizes clear disclosures and consumer protections.

Understand Finnish Property Types

Finnish residential properties typically fall into three categories:

Owner-occupied apartments (asunto-osake): Share-of-stock apartments in housing companies; you own a share in the company which entitles you to the apartment.
Detached houses (omakotitalo): Full ownership of both home and land.
Row houses and semi-detached homes (rivitalo/paritalo): Hybrid options with shared walls and often shared responsibilities.

Financing and Mortgages

Most buyers rely on mortgage financing. Finnish banks typically require a down payment (often 10–20% for residents; more for newcomers) and evaluate your income, employment history, and credit. Mortgage terms are competitive and well-regulated.

Smart financial habits matter: compare interest rates, fees, and loan terms. For guidance on responsibly using premium credit products or managing card-related costs while preparing for a down payment, consider reading Remember Gold: benefits, costs, and safe card use which outlines how to weigh benefits versus costs and keep cards secure.

Typical costs to budget for

Down payment (10–20% or more)
Mortgages arrangement and bank fees
Transfer tax (for older buildings)
Notary, registration, and legal fees
Home inspection and renovation reserves

The Buying Process Step-by-Step

1. Research and viewings

Start with online portals and local agents. Visit multiple properties, ask about maintenance records, and check the housing company’s meeting minutes if buying an apartment.

2. Financing pre-approval

Obtain a mortgage pre-approval so sellers know you are a serious buyer. A pre-approved loan helps with negotiations and sets realistic budget limits.

3. Making an offer and reservation

Offers are usually written. Sellers may accept, reject, or negotiate. When accepted, a reservation agreement or purchase contract outlines terms, deposit, and closing date.

4. Due diligence

Arrange a building survey, confirm the property’s legal status, and review any shared maintenance plans. For general guidance on buying a home and the importance of understanding the process and protections in place, the HUD guide to buying a home is a useful reference for core concepts, even if some specifics differ from Finland’s system.

5. Finalize mortgage and sign the deed

Complete your mortgage application, sign the purchase deed, pay the balance, and ensure proper registration. In Finland, deeds and transfers are recorded to secure ownership.

Legal and Practical Considerations

Working with a bilingual real estate agent and, when needed, a legal advisor is strongly recommended. Key considerations include:

Residence status: Non-EU buyers can own property, but mortgage terms may differ based on residency and income documentation.
Housing company rules: Read the yhtiöjärjestys (housing company bylaws) to understand maintenance charges and renovation rules.
Tax and reporting: Know capital gains implications and annual property taxes. Many foreigners get professional tax advice to ensure compliance.

Neighborhood, Transport, and Lifestyle

Location matters: balance commute times, schools, and amenities. Public transport is excellent in Finnish cities, which often reduces the need for a car. Consider proximity to healthcare, parks, and community services — and if you plan to work in healthcare or are following a partner’s career path, there are helpful local articles such as Studying and practicing nursing as an expat in Finland that explain how professional life can shape your housing choices.

For expats new to working life here, cultural norms affect workplace schedules and expectations; see FAQs about the Work Culture in Finland Answered for practical pointers on work–life balance and how they might influence where you want to live.

Practical Checklist for Buyers

Obtain mortgage pre-approval
Request maintenance records and housing company minutes
Commission a qualified building inspection
Confirm total transaction costs and taxes
Arrange insurance effective from the closing date
Plan for furnishings, renovations, and emergency reserves

Final Tips

Take your time. Finland’s property process is deliberate and favors transparency — use that to your advantage. Build a local support team (agent, bank contact, legal adviser), understand long-term costs, and prioritize properties that match both your lifestyle and financial plan.

Buying a home is a major step toward feeling at home in Finland. With preparation and the right professional help, you can make a confident, informed decision that supports your life here.