Welcome, Future Finns! Are you preparing to make Finland your new home? Whether you’re moving here for work, study, or simply to experience the unique Finnish lifestyle, finding the right accommodation is one of the first steps to feeling at home. Finland offers various housing options, but navigating the rental market can seem challenging, especially if you’re new to Finnish customs and resources. In this guide, we’ll cover different housing types, helpful websites for rental searches, essential vocabulary, and tips for securing accommodation. By the end, you’ll feel confident in your search for a place to live in Finland.
Types of Accommodation in Finland
When choosing accommodation, understanding the options available in Finland can help you narrow down your search. Here are the main types you’ll come across:
- Rental Apartments: Most common in cities and popular with individuals and families, rental apartments come in various sizes, from compact studios to multi-bedroom units. Apartments are available furnished or unfurnished, with unfurnished options generally costing less. Many rentals are handled by private landlords or property companies.
- Shared Apartments: Especially suitable for students or those on a budget, shared apartments allow you to split rental and utility costs with others. This setup is available both in private rentals and student housing, with shared kitchens and living spaces.
- Student Housing: Student housing foundations, such as HOAS (Helsinki), TOAS (Tampere), and TYS (Turku), provide affordable and convenient options for students. Rooms in shared flats or single studio units are available, often close to universities and with prices that are student-friendly.
- Single-Family Homes: Available in more suburban and rural areas, single-family homes offer more space and privacy, making them suitable for families. These can be harder to find in city centers and are generally pricier than apartments.
Choosing the right type depends on your lifestyle, budget, and location preferences. Let’s dive deeper into the cost of accommodation in Finland and where to find listings.
Where to Search for Accommodation in Finland
Finding reliable listings is key to a successful rental search. Here’s a breakdown of the most useful websites and platforms for finding accommodation in Finland:
- Oikotie.fi
Oikotie.fi is one of the most popular websites for rental listings in Finland. It provides a wide range of options from studio apartments to family homes and allows users to filter by price, location, property type, and more. Listings include high-quality photos, detailed descriptions, and clear pricing, making it easy to browse and shortlist properties. - Vuokraovi.com
Vuokraovi.com is another well-established website dedicated to rentals. Like Oikotie, it has a variety of listings across Finland, with helpful filters to customize your search. The site allows you to filter for pet-friendly properties, furnished or unfurnished units, and additional amenities. Vuokraovi.com also has an English version, which is particularly useful for non-Finnish speakers. - HOAS.fi (Foundation for Student Housing in the Helsinki Region)
HOAS is the main student housing provider in Helsinki and the surrounding areas. Its website is straightforward, with clear steps for applying and a list of available rooms. HOAS offers several types of accommodation, from shared flats to single-room studios. Housing is highly affordable and well-located, often close to universities and public transit. - TOAS.fi (Tampere Student Housing Foundation)
If you’re studying in Tampere, TOAS is a fantastic resource for student accommodation. It offers low-cost student housing options in various parts of Tampere, and the application process is relatively simple. The TOAS website lists available rooms, application requirements, and additional details about living in student housing in Tampere. - TYS.fi (Turku Student Village Foundation)
TYS provides student housing in Turku, with various options to choose from, including shared apartments, single studios, and even family apartments. The TYS website has clear application instructions and provides details about each property type, making it easier for students to find their ideal living arrangement. - Facebook Groups
Facebook groups are valuable for finding accommodation directly from landlords and current tenants. Groups like “Apartments in Helsinki,” “Expats in Finland,” and “Housing in Tampere” allow members to post rental offers and housing requests. Be cautious, though, as some groups may have listings that aren’t as thoroughly vetted as on other websites. - Real Estate Agencies
If you’re facing difficulty finding accommodation on your own, Finnish real estate agencies can help. Some popular ones include Vuokraturva and Kiinteistömaailma, which specialize in rentals. While agencies charge a fee, they can be beneficial in competitive housing markets like Helsinki, where apartments can be hard to secure. - Tori.fi
Tori.fi is a classified ads site often compared to Craigslist. It includes a housing section where private landlords post listings, which sometimes means more flexibility in rental terms. However, you should exercise caution and verify listings to avoid scams, as Tori.fi lacks the rigorous screening found on dedicated rental sites. - Airbnb for Short-Term Rentals
If you need temporary housing while you search for a long-term rental, Airbnb can be an option. Many listings are available in Finnish cities, allowing you to stay short-term in a place of your choice. While Airbnb is generally more expensive than regular rentals, it can provide flexibility and ease of use when you’re still settling in.
Useful Finnish Vocabulary for Rental Searches
If you’re browsing rental listings or communicating with a landlord in Finland, some basic Finnish vocabulary can be helpful. Here’s a list of common rental terms and phrases:
| Finnish Term | English Translation | Usage in Rental Context |
|---|---|---|
| Vuokra | Rent | “Kuinka paljon vuokra on?” (How much is the rent?) |
| Vuokrasopimus | Rental agreement | “Milloin voin allekirjoittaa vuokrasopimuksen?” (When can I sign the rental agreement?) |
| Vuokralainen | Tenant | “Vuokralainen on vastuussa siisteydestä.” (The tenant is responsible for cleanliness.) |
| Vuokranantaja | Landlord | “Vuokranantaja on mukava.” (The landlord is nice.) |
| Kalustettu | Furnished | “Onko tämä asunto kalustettu?” (Is this apartment furnished?) |
| Kalustamaton | Unfurnished | “Kalustamaton asunto on edullisempi.” (An unfurnished apartment is cheaper.) |
| Vakuus | Security deposit | “Vakuus on yhden kuukauden vuokra.” (The security deposit is one month’s rent.) |
| Vuokra-asunto | Rental apartment | “Etsin vuokra-asuntoa Helsingistä.” (I am looking for a rental apartment in Helsinki.) |
| Sähkö | Electricity | “Sisältyykö sähkö vuokraan?” (Is electricity included in the rent?) |
| Vesimaksu | Water fee | “Vesimaksu maksetaan erikseen.” (The water fee is paid separately.) |
| Huone | Room | “Kuinka monta huonetta asunnossa on?” (How many rooms does the apartment have?) |
| Olohuone | Living room | “Olohuone on tilava.” (The living room is spacious.) |
| Kylpyhuone | Bathroom | “Onko kylpyhuoneessa pesukoneliitäntä?” (Is there a washing machine connection in the bathroom?) |
How Much Does It Cost?
For a detailed breakdown of costs, including rent, utilities, and other living expenses, check out our in-depth post on the Cost of Living in Finland. This guide covers average prices in major cities and can help you budget more accurately when planning your move. Housing costs can vary widely based on location and property type, so knowing the full picture is essential to making informed choices.
Key Tips for Securing Accommodation
Finding housing in Finland’s popular cities, especially Helsinki, can be competitive. Here are a few tips to increase your chances:
- Start Early: Begin your search as early as possible, especially if you’re moving in August or January when demand is high due to new university semesters.
- Prepare Essential Documents: Finnish landlords usually require proof of income, references, and a security deposit. Having these ready in advance can make the application process faster.
- Consider Alternative Locations: City centers are competitive, so consider nearby suburban areas with good transport connections. These areas are often quieter, more spacious, and offer lower rental costs.
- Watch for Scams: Avoid listings with suspiciously low rent or requests for upfront payments without viewings. Stick to trusted websites, and avoid sending money before a lease is signed.
- Use Local Resources: If you’re a student, ask your university for housing resources or help. Many Finnish universities have dedicated housing offices to assist international students.
Understanding Rental Contracts
Once you’ve found a place, it’s essential to understand the terms in your rental contract. Here are a few key points to keep in mind:
- Lease Type: Contracts can be fixed-term or open-ended. Open-ended leases are the most common, but they require a minimum six-month commitment.
- Deposit and Fees: The security deposit is generally one to three months’ rent. Make sure to ask about any additional fees, such as cleaning charges.
- Repairs and Maintenance: Tenants handle minor repairs, while landlords are responsible for major issues. If you encounter any repair needs, notify the landlord promptly.
- Notice Period: Finnish leases have clear rules for notice periods. For open-ended leases, tenants usually give one month’s notice to end the contract.
Finding accommodation in Finland might take time, but by using the right resources, familiarizing yourself with Finnish rental vocabulary, and preparing essential documents, you’ll be well-prepared to secure the ideal home. Remember to start your search early, especially in popular cities, and stay vigilant for potential scams. Whether you’re drawn to vibrant city life or the peace of suburban areas, Finland offers a variety of housing options to suit every lifestyle. Welcome to Finland—your new home is waiting for you!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How hard is it to find accommodation in Finland?
Finding housing in major cities like Helsinki can be competitive, especially during peak times. Starting early and exploring multiple options, including student housing, can make it easier.
2. What documents do I need to rent in Finland?
Most landlords require proof of income, references, and a deposit. Having these ready can streamline the application process.
3. Are utilities included in Finnish rental prices?
Not always. Some rentals include heating, but electricity, water, and internet are often paid separately. Check your rental contract for details.
Thank you for reading my article! I hope you found the information helpful for your journey to Finland. Whether you’re moving, studying, or exploring, we´re all Future Finns and we all want to fulfill our Finnish dream.
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