Record Demand for Rental Homes in Finland

SATO Corporation, a major player in Finland's rental housing market, reports a significant shift in housing preferences among the Finnish population, with more individuals considering the transition from owner-occupied apartments to rental homes. According to SATO's latest rental housing survey, conducted between May and June 2026, the demand for rental apartments has surged to a record high, with search activity on Vuokraovi.com increasing by 45% between January and July 2026.

The survey also reveals that one in four Finns currently residing in owner-occupied apartments is now looking for rental homes, marking a 5 percentage point increase from 2024. Laura Lahtinen, a housing expert from Vuokraovi, attributes this trend to the growing positive perception of rental housing, which is seen as more flexible, convenient, and adaptable in the face of an uncertain economic situation.

Rental housing providers, like SATO, are experiencing a rise in apartment showings. Between January and July 2026, SATO recorded an 8% increase in apartment showings compared to the same period last year. Laura Laamanen, Chief Commercial Officer at SATO, highlights that many home seekers are now prioritizing larger or more affordable homes, which rental housing offers without the burden of rising interest rates or the need to manage two homes.

The criteria for a dream rental home vary widely depending on the location. In Helsinki, for example, luxury features such as sea views and bathtubs are in high demand. In Tampere, there is a notable interest in renovated apartments, while searches in Turku are concentrated on specific neighborhoods like Herttuankulma, Portsa, Satama, and Kauppatori. According to SATO’s data, good transport connections, particularly rail transport, remain a critical factor for home seekers, especially in cities that have seen recent expansions in public transit.

Age also plays a significant role in the search criteria for rental apartments. For those under 30, modern kitchens and bathrooms are crucial. In contrast, those aged 60 and over prefer apartments with balconies and elevators. Digital services have become the norm for all age groups, with 63% of respondents preferring to sign their lease agreements electronically. However, 27% still prefer signing documents in person, and around a third of tenants prefer contacting their housing providers or reporting faults by phone or in person.

Laura Laamanen of SATO emphasizes that the smoothness of service is increasingly important when choosing a housing provider. "Most of our residents report faults through the OmaSATO digital service, but what matters most to them is that any issues are fixed promptly by their familiar House Expert," she said.

SATO Corporation, celebrating its 85th anniversary in 2025, continues to focus on providing sustainable and comprehensive rental housing solutions. The company aims to offer excellent customer experiences and a wide range of urban rental housing options with good access to public transport and services.