3 Hacks Finding Accommodation in Sweden as Foreigners

Suppose we choose Sweden as our new home; what a fantastic choice! However, many expats need help finding accommodation in Sweden amidst extreme competition for housing and increasing scam cases. In addition, we must consider a lot of time and awareness to avoid becoming homeless in this beautiful country.

Although finding accommodation in Sweden can feel confusing and overwhelming, especially in big three cities like Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö, JnD Readers should not be worried! Our practical guide will help you simplify the process and make it more accessible.

Finding Accommodation in Sweden: Understanding the Housing Scene

As a first step, JnD readers are recommended to understand the types of accommodation contracts in Sweden so that our finding accommodation in Sweden will be more focused. At least two types of contracts are most commonly used: first-hand and second-hand. Let’s discuss these contracts in more detail.

First-hand contract (Förstahandskontrakt):

In this type of contract, we guarantee long-term stability with an indefinite duration, and we can deal directly with the property owner or housing company. In addition, if we talk about legal protection, this contract offers much stronger legal safety, including the right to sublease (hyresgästföreningen). However, obtaining this contract requires much hard work, and we must regularly look at the municipality’s or housing company’s website to apply for this type of contract.

Second-hand contract (Andrahandskontrakt)

This contract is suitable for JnD readers who want to rent accommodation for a short period ranging from a few months to generally one year. This contract is offered directly between the tenant and the lessee. In addition, the rental fee may be higher than the previous type of contract, but this can be negotiated between the two parties. If we consider subletting, unfortunately, this is only sometimes allowed, and if permitted, it may require the consent of the direct tenant. Then, regarding the legal perspective, subletting tenants have fewer rights than direct tenants. We can visit platforms like Blocket, Bostadsportalen, and Qasa to see this accommodation type.

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Go-To Platforms for Finding Accommodation in Sweden

We already understand the types of contracts, and it is time for JnD readers to choose from the following platforms to select your dream accommodations. These platforms will make finding accommodation in Sweden for foreigners much easier and more targeted.

Blocket (bostad.blocket.se)

Blocket is one of the major classified sites in Sweden, with a wide variety of accommodation options, from rooms to apartments. The site also lets us choose based on our apartment preferences and location. They also offer furnished and unfurnished accommodation options so that JnD readers can choose according to their needs. Although it is quite safe, we advise avoiding possible scams by not selecting unauthorized ad options.

Bostadsportalen (bostadsportalen.se)

This site is for those of us looking for a direct contract. However, you need to know that there is a fee, and you need to register.

Qasa (qasa.se)

Like Blocket, this site specializes in second-hand and residential rentals. They also feature tenant reviews and offer secure online payments, so it’s an option we should consider. However, to maintain the needs of this site, they charge a subscription fee to their customers. In addition, they have also merged with Blocket so JnD readers can access them on the combined Blocket x Qasa site.

Samtrygg (samtrygg.se)

We got our accommodation through this platform. The site is very safe for re-renting and offers legal guidance and insurance. For those of you looking for a short stay in Sweden, this site is the ideal key as it offers a wide range of options, from rooms to apartments, as well as both furnished and unfurnished accommodation.

Exploring Other Paths

Apart from the platforms mentioned above, other alternative ways for finding accommodation in Sweden exist.

Facebook groups

City-specific groups in Sweden often post apartment rental opportunities, and we recommend joining groups relevant to our interests and location. But it would help if you were wary of this alternative, as the chances of a scam are much greater.

Student Housing

If JnD readers are students at one of Sweden’s universities, student housing can be an alternative option. We found many apartment options only offered to students on other websites. In terms of price, they are also quite cheap because they are intended for students. To get one, we need to prove that we are a student at a Swedish university.

Airbnb

Suppose you are visiting Sweden for a short duration. In that case, we recommend using AirBnB since several variety options are offered, and it can be a temporary shelter option while we look for long-term solutions. This platform is more expensive than others, especially for those in Sweden’s big cities.

Booking.com

Even though the prices are likely much more expensive than other sites, it can be our alternative solution for finding accommodation in Sweden since they offer short-term accommodation options.

The Act for finding accommodation in Sweden

We are already familiar with Sweden’s accommodation sites, so it is time to take action. Do this hack to make finding accommodation in Sweden straightforward and on target.

Start early

As JnD readers notice, the housing market moves quickly, especially if the accommodation is located in Sweden’s major cities and at attractive prices. Hence, starting your search as soon as possible is the best solution by actively searching through accommodation search platforms and registering an account on these sites.

Learn Swedish

We can stand out from other candidates if we already have basic Swedish language skills. Although most Swedes speak English, it will be great to learn Swedish since it benefits our future life in Sweden.

Network

Networking increases our chances of finding accommodation in Sweden more easily. Therefore, JnD readers seeking recommendations or leads from friends, colleagues or acquaintances are acceptable. If necessary, friends who can speak Swedish are certainly a great opportunity waiting for us.

Prepare documents

Renting a property in Sweden involves contracts, references and credit checks. We highly recommend preparing all the necessary documents, especially for credit checks. Generally, the property will check our bank status (Bank ID); they will install a deposit system if we don’t have a Bank ID. In our case, they asked for a deposit totalling 2 months of apartment rent.

Watch out for scams

In finding accommodation in Sweden, we are bound to be tempted by the number of offers we get, especially if the property is reasonably priced. While always be aware of possible scams. We recommend paying a down payment or fee with an official contract and viewing the place in person, or if that’s not possible, using a virtual view. However, finding accommodation in Sweden through the platforms we mentioned earlier. It will be much safer as they verify both parties’ IDs, thus minimizing fraud cases.

Conclusion

Many Expats face challenges finding accommodation in Sweden due to competition and increasing fraud cases. Therefore, to simplify the process, JnD readers should understand the types of accommodation contracts, including first-hand and second-hand contracts. While first-hand contracts offer long-term stability and legal protection, second-hand contracts are suitable for short-term stays. Platforms such as Blocket, Bostadsportalen, Qasa, and Samtrygg can make finding accommodation in Sweden much easier. These platforms offer various options, tenant reviews, secure online payments and clear legal guidance.