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Real Estate in Sweden | Expat Exchange
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Real Estate in Sweden

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By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Mar 03, 2024

Summary: An expat looking to buy a home in Sweden should begin by researching the local real estate market. It is important to understand the different types of properties available, the prices, and the locations. Expats should also consider their budget and lifestyle when searching for a home. Foreigners are allowed to purchase property in Sweden, however, there are certain restrictions. For example, foreigners must obtain a residence permit in order to purchase a property. Additionally, foreigners are not allowed to purchase certain types of properties, such as agricultural land or properties located in certain areas. Homes in Sweden typically include amenities such as central heating, modern kitchens, and bathrooms. Many homes also have balconies or terraces, and some may include a garden or outdoor space.

How do I find a place to live in Sweden?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"My husband was very particular on where we would live. Believe it or not, there are slumps in Sweden and Swedes are so careful about where and how they live that "addresses" are important statements of their "class". We got a tip through some friends," said one person in Stockholm.

"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Sweden is to use online resources such as websites like Blocket, Bostad Direkt, and Hemnet. These websites allow you to search for available properties in Sweden and filter your search by location, price, and other criteria. Additionally, you can contact local real estate agents who can help you find a place to live that meets your needs. You can also look for rental postings on social media sites such as Facebook and Instagram. Finally, you can also look for rental postings in local newspapers and magazines," said one expat who made the move to Sweden.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Sweden?

"We live in a second hand rental apartment which came unfurnished, with a fridge, oven and an electric stove. The rental includes heating and a car park bay. The apartment is about 3mins to the train stop, 2 mins to the Lake Malaren, 8-10mins on train to Stockholm city and close the the forest. Most expats live in apartments. If they are career expats, they might be in paid for villas with 3-5 rooms, fully furnished," said one person in Stockholm.

"Expat homes and apartments in Sweden tend to be modern and well-equipped, with plenty of natural light and a neutral colour palette. Many apartments come with a balcony or terrace, and some even have access to a garden. Expats can expect to find a fully-equipped kitchen, a comfortable living area, and plenty of storage space. Most apartments also come with access to a laundry room and a shared outdoor area. Expats can also expect to find a variety of amenities in their neighbourhood, such as supermarkets, restaurants, and parks," said one expat who made the move to Sweden.

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What is the average cost of housing in Sweden?

If you are thinking about moving to Sweden, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The average cost of housing in Sweden is generally quite high, with prices varying depending on the location and type of property. In general, renting a one-bedroom apartment in a city center can cost around 10,000 SEK (1,000 EUR) per month, while a three-bedroom apartment in a suburban area can cost around 8,000 SEK (800 EUR) per month. Buying a property in Sweden can be even more expensive, with prices ranging from around 2 million SEK (200,000 EUR) for a small apartment to over 10 million SEK (1 million EUR) for a large house," explained one expat living in Sweden.

"I found the housing in Sweden to be outrageously expensive. For what we are paying for a 59sq unfurnished apartment with one bedroom, we could have had a fully furnished apartment or house with at least 1,200sq! Plus a garden and parking! We pay about 6,000sek here while an apartment in Malaysia (in a good area) would cost between RM2000 to RM3,500," said one person in Stockholm.

Should I buy or rent a home in Sweden?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Sweden, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"Buying a home in Sweden can be a great investment, as the country has a strong economy and a stable housing market. However, it is important to consider the costs associated with buying a home, such as the cost of the property, taxes, and fees. Additionally, it is important to consider the length of time you plan to stay in Sweden, as buying a home may not be the best option if you plan to move in the near future. Renting a home in Sweden can be a great option for those who are not ready to commit to buying a home, as it allows for more flexibility and can be more cost-effective in the short-term," said one expat in Sweden.

What do I need to know when buying property in Sweden?

When we asked expats what advice they would give a foreigner before buying a property in Sweden, they said:

"1. It is important to research the local area and the property market before making a purchase. 2. It is advisable to seek legal advice from a qualified lawyer before signing any contracts. 3. It is important to be aware of the taxes and fees associated with buying property in Sweden, such as the transfer tax and the land registration fee. 4. It is important to be aware of the different types of property available in Sweden, such as single-family homes, apartments, and condominiums. 5. It is important to be aware of the different types of mortgages available in Sweden, such as fixed-rate mortgages and variable-rate mortgages. 6. It is important to be aware of the different types of insurance available in Sweden, such as home insurance and life insurance. 7. It is important to be aware of the different types of financing available in Sweden, such as bank loans and government grants. 8. It is important to be aware of the different types of rental agreements available in Sweden, such as long-term leases and short-term leases. 9. It is important to be aware of the different types of tenant rights available in Sweden, such as the right to a safe and healthy living environment. 10. It is important to be aware of the different types of tenant rights available in Sweden, such as the right to a fair and reasonable rent," said one expat in Sweden.

Are foreigners allowed to own property in Sweden?

When we asked expats what advice they would give a foreigner before buying a property in Sweden, they said...

"Yes, foreigners are allowed to own property in Sweden. Non-residents of Sweden are allowed to purchase property in the country, however, they must obtain permission from the Swedish Tax Agency before they can do so. This permission is usually granted if the buyer can prove that they have sufficient financial resources to purchase the property. Additionally, foreign buyers must also register with the Swedish Land Registry and pay a transfer tax," explained one person living in Sweden.

What appliances are typically included in a rental?

We asked foreigners in Sweden what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included:

"Rental properties in Sweden typically include a refrigerator, stove, oven, and washing machine. Depending on the property, other appliances such as a dishwasher, microwave, and dryer may also be included," explained one person living in Sweden.

Additional Information about Searching for a Home in Sweden:

We asked foreigners in Sweden what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included...

"Expats can search for homes in Sweden by looking at online listings, such as those on real estate websites, or by contacting a local real estate agent. They can also search for rental properties on websites such as Airbnb or Craigslist. Additionally, expats can look for housing through social media networks, such as Facebook groups or expat forums," said one in Sweden.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

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