Accommodation Sweden

Renting housing in Sweden can be a challenging task, especially in large cities where demand exceeds supply. 

 

Short-term rental

Short-term rental is usually easier but can be more expensive. Popular platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com offer accommodations for short stays, including apartments and houses. If you need housing for a few months, you could consider renting on the second-hand market through websites like Blocket.se or use the services of real estate agencies. It is important to clarify in advance if utilities are included in the rental price.

 

Long-term rental

For long-term rentals, different rules apply. In Sweden, there is a system of housing queues where people wait for years to receive permanent housing. However, for foreigners, websites like Bostadsförmedlingen.se and Bostadsportalen can offer rental options. It's important to be prepared for high competition, especially in large cities like Stockholm or Gothenburg. The principle of obtaining rental accommodation is that the longer you are in the queue, the better. You should also consider the family's income: the higher, the better.

 

Documents and application process

To rent housing, you will generally need:

- Proof of income or employment,

- Identification documents (passport or Swedish ID),

- Credit check (to confirm financial reliability),

- References from previous landlords (if applicable).

- Family composition certificate from the Tax Agency.

 

Having all these documents ready will speed up the rental process, especially if the property is in high demand.

 

Rental cost

Renting accommodation in large cities like Stockholm can range from 10,000 to 15,000 SEK per month for a one-bedroom apartment. In smaller cities, prices are lower, around 5,000 to 8,000 SEK. Utilities may not be included in the rental price, so it's worth clarifying this point separately.

 

Realtor commission

When renting housing in Sweden through a realtor, the commission varies depending on the agency and region. Realtors typically charge a commission equal to one month's rent, which is standard practice, especially for long-term rentals. In some cases, there may be additional fees, such as for document processing or other agency services.

 

For short-term rentals, fees are generally higher and can amount to 10-15% of the total rent for the stay. It's also worth considering that renting through platforms like BostadDirekt may involve an additional charge for tenant search services.

 

Renting directly from the owner

In Sweden, it is possible to rent housing directly from the owner without involving realtors. In such cases, tenants may look for ads on popular platforms like Blocket.se, Facebook groups, or local bulletin boards. Renting directly from the owner can be more cost-effective as it avoids paying a realtor's commission, which is usually equal to one month's rent.

 

However, caution should be exercised in such deals, especially when renting through private ads, to avoid fraud. It is important to always verify the legitimacy of the rental, for example, by ensuring that the owner has the right to rent out the property, and signing an official contract.

A rental or purchase agreement in Sweden is necessary for the legal protection of both the tenant and the landlord, or the buyer and seller. 

 

Rental agreement 

A rental agreement is used to officially document the rental terms between the tenant and the landlord. It protects both parties and regulates issues such as:

- Rent and payment terms,

- Duration of the contract, including termination conditions,

- Maintenance responsibilities (responsibility for repair and upkeep),

- Conditions for lease renewal.

 

In Sweden, tenants have significant rights. For example, landlords cannot arbitrarily increase the rent, and tenants are protected from eviction without substantial reasons. Rental contracts are usually in Swedish, but a translation can be requested. It's important to carefully review the contract to understand all terms: rent amount, contract duration, included services (electricity, water, etc.), and termination conditions.

 

The presence of a written agreement is important, even if relations between the parties are friendly, because in case of a conflict, the agreement will help avoid misunderstandings and protect both parties according to Swedish law. For renting housing on the secondary market, it is also important to have an agreement to avoid violations related to inflated rent and the absence of official rental permission from the landlord.

 

In Sweden, notarization of a rental agreement is not required for legal validity. A written agreement between the tenant and landlord, specifying the main rental terms such as the rental amount, rental periods, and termination conditions, is sufficient. However, for legal security, it is important that both parties sign the contract and that all key points are included.

 

Notarization may be needed only in special cases, such as in the event of disputes or for transactions with large commercial properties, but it is not a mandatory requirement for most rental agreements in Sweden.

 

 

Purchase Agreement

When buying a home in Sweden, whether a house or an apartment, a written purchase agreement is required, which records the transfer of ownership from the seller to the buyer. This document includes:

- Description of the property (address, area, etc.),

- Purchase amount,

- Date of property transfer,

- Signatures of both parties.

 

This contract is a mandatory document for completing the sale and obtaining ownership rights (lagfart). Without a signed contract, the purchase is not considered legally complete. After signing, the buyer must apply for registration of ownership with Lantmäteriet.

 

Both types of agreements are necessary to ensure the safety of real estate transactions and rentals, and their absence can lead to legal issues.

Renting housing in Sweden has its own features, which are important to consider for a successful rental agreement.

 

Contents of the Rental Agreement

The rental agreement in Sweden is governed by law and must be in written form. The contract specifies such key aspects as the amount of rent, rental period, renewal rules, and termination conditions. It is also important to note that the tenant and landlord have different responsibilities: the landlord is responsible for the maintenance of the housing, while the tenant is obliged to keep the housing in order and report any damages. In Sweden, there is an official termination period for housing agreements - 3 months starting from the 1st of the following month unless otherwise specified in the signed agreement. From the first day of moving in, it is recommended to inspect the housing and document any damages with photos, then send them to the landlord and get written confirmation from them to avoid future expenses.

 

Tenant Rights and Responsibilities

The tenant is entitled to safe and comfortable housing, including maintaining the apartment temperature between 20 and 23 degrees. If problems arise, such as appliance failures, the landlord is obliged to fix them. At the same time, the tenant must monitor the condition of the housing and compensate for any damage if it was caused by them.

 

Subletting Opportunities

The tenant can sublet the housing only with the landlord's permission. This is especially important in large cities where the demand for rentals is very high. In the case of unauthorized subletting, the tenant can be fined or evicted.

 

Deposits and Rent

Upon moving in, a deposit, usually amounting to one or two months' rent, is often required. This deposit is returned at the end of the rental period, provided the housing is in proper condition. The rent is fixed at the level agreed upon between the landlord and tenant and cannot be arbitrarily increased.

 

Repairs and Alterations in the Apartment

The tenant may make cosmetic changes to the apartment, such as painting walls, but any major alterations require the landlord's approval. The landlord is responsible for major repairs. Upon moving out, the landlord may require the walls to be repainted to their original color or holes from nails for photos or paintings to be patched.

 

In Sweden, housing can be rented either furnished or unfurnished, depending on the type of rental agreement and arrangement with the landlord.

 

Furnished Housing

Some apartments, especially those offered for short-term rentals or through the secondary market, may be rented furnished. These offers often include basic appliances, such as washing machines and refrigerators. Landlords may also include dishes, bedding, and other small household items, especially if the apartment is rented through short-term rental platforms like Airbnb or Blocket.

 

Unfurnished Housing

For long-term rentals, housing is usually rented unfurnished. However, the apartment typically includes basic appliances — refrigerator, stove, and sometimes a dishwasher and washing machine. Tenants need to purchase their own dishes and other household items.

 

Subletting

In the case of subletting, housing is most often rented furnished. However, if the apartment is fully furnished, the landlord has the right to increase the rent by 10-15% for the use of the furniture.

 

Caution Against Fraud

Unfortunately, cases of rental fraud are becoming more common. Never make advance payments for an apartment you haven't seen in person and always check if the landlord has permission to rent out the property. This is especially relevant when renting through secondary sources such as Blocket.se.

Buying property in Sweden is a process that involves several key stages. This process is available to both Swedish citizens and foreign nationals.

 

Searching for Property

The first step is to select suitable housing. In Sweden, there are popular platforms like Hemnet.se and Booli.se where you can find real estate listings. Additionally, you can use the services of real estate agencies, which assist with selection and arrange viewings.

 

Viewings and Property Inspection

Once suitable housing is selected, it is necessary to visit it for a personal inspection. It's important to thoroughly examine the condition of the property, as after signing the contract, the buyer is responsible for any possible defects that could have been discovered before the transaction. For assurance, many hire a professional inspector to conduct a detailed review of the property.

 

Buying Process: Contract Signing

After choosing the property, the bidding process begins, during which buyers offer their prices. If your offer wins, you sign a purchase agreement, making the deal legally binding. At this stage, a deposit is made, usually about 10% of the price. Full payment is made at the time of property transfer, when you receive the keys and become the official owner.

 

Registration and Ownership Transfer

In Sweden, the real estate purchase agreement is signed by both parties (buyer and seller), but the process of registering the agreement and property rights is performed through a government agency, Lantmäteriet. After signing the agreement, the buyer submits an application for ownership registration. This is a mandatory step to complete the real estate transaction. Registration confirms the transfer of ownership and makes the purchase official.

 

When buying an apartment, a share in a cooperative is purchased, not the apartment itself. However, there are also privately owned apartments.

 

Registration includes the submission of the sales agreement itself or a document of full payment, which serves as confirmation that the entire amount has been paid. The buyer also pays a registration tax (1.5% of the property value) and a fixed fee for processing the application.

 

Additional Costs

Besides the property itself, buyers should consider expenses such as agency fees, property taxes, and possible costs for repairs and housing adaptation.

In Sweden, property insurance is not legally required. However, purchasing insurance is highly recommended to protect your property from various risks, such as fires, floods, vandalism, or theft. Having an insurance policy can save you from significant financial losses if something happens to your property.

 

If you have purchased real estate using a mortgage, your bank may require an insurance policy as a condition of the loan. In such cases, insurance becomes mandatory according to the terms of the contract with the bank.

 

Additionally, property owners might face insurance requirements from landlords or when renting commercial premises. Tenants are usually recommended to enter a personal insurance program, such as home insurance and third-party liability insurance.

In Sweden, utility services (electricity, heating, water, sewage, waste disposal) can vary significantly in cost depending on the region and type of housing.

 

Electricity

The cost of electricity is divided into two parts:

- Energy: This is the actual cost of the electricity you consume, and you can choose your energy supplier.

- Electricity Network: A fixed fee for connection to the electricity grid, charged regardless of your consumption.

 

Heating

Most housing in Sweden is heated via centralized heating, especially in apartment buildings. Heating costs are rising faster than the overall consumer price index. Depending on the region, prices may differ. In cities with low population density, heating can be more expensive due to higher infrastructure costs.

 

Water and Sewage

Payment for water supply and sewage services consists of fixed and variable parts. The variable part depends on actual water consumption. Prices for water supply are also rising, with bills in some municipalities significantly exceeding average values.

 

Waste Disposal

The cost of waste disposal can also vary depending on the municipality. In recent years, there has been an increase in waste management service prices, which can be quite significant in some regions. Incorrect sorting of waste may result in a fine.

 

Thus, the cost of utility services in Sweden heavily depends on location and type of housing. Total expenses can differ by more than 1000 kronor per month between various municipalities.

 

In Sweden, utility services can be paid online, which is the most common way. Most service providers offer e-billing or the possibility of automatic bank payments. This simplifies the process and ensures timely payment.

 

Monthly Payments

Utilities such as electricity, water, heating, and waste disposal are generally paid monthly. In some cases, bills may be sent every two months or quarterly, depending on the service provider's terms. Automatic payments or receiving bills via email help avoid missed or delayed payments.

 

Meter Reading Submission

Water and electricity meter readings are mostly submitted automatically through digital meters, which are already installed in most homes. However, in some municipalities or if old meters are present, you may need to submit readings yourself. This is done online through a personal account on the service provider's website. Typically, readings need to be submitted monthly or every two months.

Living in apartment buildings in Sweden is regulated by several rules aimed at maintaining order and comfortable conditions for all residents.

Noise and Disturbance

One of the most important aspects of living in an apartment building is observing quiet hours. In Sweden, it is prohibited to hold noisy events, drill, or engage in repairs during evening hours (from 8:00 PM to 7:00 AM on weekdays and from 8:00 PM to 10:00 AM on weekends and holidays). If you plan to have a party, it is advisable to notify your neighbors in advance.

Pets

Pets are allowed in most buildings, but they need to be carefully monitored to ensure they do not disturb neighbors. For example, animals should not run unsupervised in common areas or soil public places. Responsibility for their behavior lies with the owner.

Smoking

Smoking is prohibited in communal areas of the house, such as entrances, stairwells, and laundries. If you smoke on the balcony or in the apartment, it is important to ensure that the smoke smell does not disturb the neighbors. If the smoke gets absorbed into the walls, you may be required to pay for cleaning upon departure.

Use of common areas

An important feature of living in apartment buildings is the shared use of communal areas such as laundries and garbage zones. It is important to adhere to established schedules and rules for using these areas, as well as maintaining their cleanliness.

Changes in the apartment

Any changes in the apartment, such as installing a dishwasher or altering the electrical systems, require approval from the landlord. Changes without permission may result in penalties or even termination of the lease agreement.

Compliance with these rules helps create a comfortable and respectful environment for all residents of the apartment building in Sweden.

The real estate market in Sweden has several key features that are important to consider for those planning to buy or rent a home.

 

Stable demand and shortage of supply

The Swedish real estate market is characterized by a chronic shortage of housing, especially in major cities like Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö. This deficit is related to high demand for housing and limited new construction rates. As a result, housing prices remain quite high, and renters and buyers have to deal with competition.

 

Rental market and property purchase

Sweden has a complex rental housing situation. There is a strict regulation system, and obtaining rented housing often requires years of waiting in line. Rental contracts can be primary or secondary, with the latter usually involving subleasing. Buying property, in turn, requires a significant initial deposit, which makes it difficult for young families and new immigrants to access the market.

 

Development of country housing

Following the pandemic, many city residents began considering the option of moving to rural areas or acquiring country homes. This led to an increase in demand for rural real estate, also affecting prices in some regions, especially in areas with good transport accessibility.

 

Long-term price trends

The Swedish real estate market exhibits both stable and changing trends.

 

Housing prices: Average house prices across Sweden have varied over recent months depending on the region. For example, in Stockholm, the average house price is about 3.193 million Swedish kronor, while in regions such as Gotland, prices can reach 3.090 million kronor. In some areas of the country, housing prices have decreased, especially due to the rise in mortgage rates in previous years, but stabilization is expected.

 

Price trends: After the price peak in April 2022, the market showed a decline of about 10.8% for houses. However, a slight price increase is forecasted for the year due to reduced mortgage rates, which should stabilize the market.

 

Future forecast: Experts predict that housing prices will slowly rise. This is due to the anticipated further decrease in mortgage rates and economic stabilization.

 

Sales: The number of real estate transactions also varies by region. For example, there is active market movement in the southern and central parts of the country, while activity is lower in the northern areas.

The cost of living in Sweden varies depending on the city and lifestyle, but overall, the country is considered one of the most expensive in Europe. Here are the main expenses people living in Sweden face:

 

Housing

Rental costs vary significantly by city:

- In Stockholm, renting a one-bedroom apartment in the center costs from 12,000 to 18,000 SEK per month. Outside the center, prices can drop to 9,000–12,000 SEK.

- In other major cities like Gothenburg and Malmö, rent is slightly lower, starting from 8,000–15,000 SEK depending on the area.

- Utilities (heating, electricity, water) for an apartment of about 85 square meters amount to approximately 1,000–2,500 SEK per month.

 

Food Products

Food prices may seem high, especially for imported goods. Here are some examples:

- A liter of milk costs around 13–26 SEK,

- 10 eggs — 30 SEK,

- A kilogram of chicken — 55–80 SEK.

Dining out also varies: lunch at an inexpensive restaurant will cost 130–200 SEK, while dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant costs from 800 SEK and up.

 

Transport

The cost of public transport varies by city:

- A single ticket in Stockholm costs 42 SEK,

- A monthly pass for 1 adult on public transport in Stockholm costs 1020 SEK.

Gasoline prices are also high — around 17–21 SEK per liter.

 

Healthcare Costs

The Swedish healthcare system is subsidized by the government, and the cost of medical services for residents is capped. A doctor's visit costs around 200–300 SEK, and the annual limit on personal medical expenses is about 1,400 SEK.

 

Entertainment and Leisure

Dinner for two in a restaurant can cost from 500 to 900 SEK, a cinema ticket — about 150–160 SEK. Coffee culture is popular in Sweden, and a cup of cappuccino costs on average 40–45 SEK.

 

Thus, Sweden offers a high standard of living, but this comes with high expenses, especially for housing and food.

Sweden has several government support and subsidy programs aimed at assisting in construction, rental, and improving housing conditions:

 

Investment Support for Rental Housing Construction

One of the key programs is investment support for housing construction, including rental apartments and student housing. This program aims to stimulate the construction of new residential properties and to improve the availability of housing for renters. Support is provided on the condition that rental rates remain below market levels, and the housing meets energy efficiency standards. The amount of subsidy depends on the region and can reach 7,100 SEK per square meter for Stockholm and about 4,800 SEK per square meter for other regions.

 

Housing Subsidies for the Elderly

There is a separate support program for the construction and adaptation of housing for the elderly. This subsidy is aimed at creating accessible and convenient conditions for elderly citizens, including special residential complexes with services and security.

 

Energy Efficiency

Additional subsidies are provided for projects focused on improving the energy efficiency of buildings. If a building uses less than 56% of the energy prescribed by Swedish building codes, the subsidy may be increased by 75% of the base support amount. This is particularly important for new construction projects that seek to minimize the ecological footprint.

 

These programs are designed to support affordable housing, improve energy efficiency, and ensure housing conditions for socially vulnerable groups.