🏠

Housing and Accommodation

Overview of finding housing, renting apartments, and understanding tenancy rules in Orebro.

Sections

1. Types of Housing Available in Örebro

In Örebro, you’ll find a variety of housing options catering to different needs and budgets. These include:

a. Apartments (Lägenheter)

  • Rental Apartments (Hyresrätter): These are the most common type of housing for newcomers. They are owned by landlords or housing companies and rented out to tenants.
  • Tenant-Owned Apartments (Bostadsrätter): These are apartments that you purchase and own, but they are part of a housing association. You can sublet them with permission.

b. Houses (Villor)

  • Detached or semi-detached houses are available for rent or purchase, often located in suburban or residential areas. These are ideal for families or those seeking more space.

c. Student Housing

  • Örebro University offers student housing options, including dormitories and shared apartments, which are often more affordable and located near the campus.

d. Shared Housing (Kollektivboende)

  • Shared housing is popular among students and young professionals. You rent a room in a shared apartment or house and share common areas like the kitchen and bathroom.

e. Short-Term Rentals

  • For temporary stays, you can find furnished apartments or rooms through platforms like Airbnb or local rental agencies.

2. Average Rental Costs in Örebro

Rental costs in Örebro vary depending on the type of housing, location, and size. Below are approximate monthly rental costs:

  • 1-bedroom apartment in the city center: SEK 7,000–10,000
  • 1-bedroom apartment outside the city center: SEK 5,500–8,000
  • 3-bedroom apartment in the city center: SEK 12,000–15,000
  • 3-bedroom apartment outside the city center: SEK 9,000–12,000
  • Student housing (shared or dormitory): SEK 3,000–5,000
  • Houses (3–4 bedrooms): SEK 15,000–25,000, depending on location and amenities.

3. How to Find Housing in Örebro

Finding housing in Örebro can be competitive, especially for rental apartments. Here are some effective ways to search:

a. Online Platforms

  • Boplats Sverige (boplats.se): A national platform for rental housing.
  • Blocket Bostad (blocket.se): A popular site for private rentals and sublets.
  • Hemnet (hemnet.se): Primarily for buying property but also lists rentals.
  • Qasa (qasa.se): A platform for long-term rentals.

b. Local Housing Companies

  • Many rental apartments are managed by municipal or private housing companies. Examples include:
    • ÖBO (ÖrebroBostäder): The largest municipal housing company in Örebro.
    • Heba Fastigheter and Willhem: Private housing companies with properties in Örebro.

c. University Housing

  • If you’re a student, Örebro University provides resources for finding student housing. Apply early, as demand is high.

d. Social Media and Community Groups

  • Facebook groups like “Bostad i Örebro” or “Lägenheter i Örebro” can be helpful for finding private rentals or sublets.

e. Real Estate Agents

  • For those looking to buy property, real estate agents like Svensk Fastighetsförmedling or Fastighetsbyrån can assist.

4. The Rental Process in Örebro

Renting a property in Örebro involves several steps. Here’s what you need to know:

a. Application Process

  • Register with Housing Companies: For municipal housing, you need to register and join a queue system. The longer you’ve been in the queue, the higher your chances of getting an apartment.
  • Submit an Application: For private rentals, you’ll need to contact the landlord or agency directly and provide personal details, proof of income, and references.

b. Signing the Lease

  • Once approved, you’ll sign a rental agreement (hyresavtal). This document outlines the terms of the rental, including rent amount, deposit, and notice period.
  • Deposit: Typically, landlords require a deposit equivalent to 1–3 months’ rent.

c. Rent Payment

  • Rent is usually paid monthly in advance. Most landlords prefer bank transfers.

d. Move-In Inspection

  • Before moving in, an inspection is conducted to document the condition of the property. This protects both you and the landlord.

a. Rental Laws

  • Swedish rental laws are tenant-friendly. Landlords cannot evict tenants without valid reasons, and rent increases are regulated.
  • Subletting requires the landlord’s permission.

b. Queue System

  • The municipal housing queue system can be long, so it’s advisable to register as early as possible, even if you don’t need housing immediately.

c. Personal Identification Number (Personnummer)

  • Having a Swedish personal identification number is often required to sign a lease or register for utilities. If you’re new to Sweden, apply for a personnummer through the Swedish Tax Agency (Skatteverket).

d. Utilities

  • Rent may or may not include utilities (electricity, water, heating, and internet). Clarify this with the landlord before signing the lease.

e. Cultural Norms

  • Punctuality and clear communication are valued in Sweden. Be respectful and professional when dealing with landlords or housing companies.

6. Tips for Navigating the Local Housing Market

  • Start Early: The housing market in Örebro can be competitive, especially for students and newcomers. Begin your search well in advance.
  • Be Flexible: Consider areas outside the city center for more affordable options.
  • Network Locally: Ask colleagues, friends, or university contacts for housing leads.
  • Beware of Scams: Avoid paying deposits or rent before signing a lease. Verify the legitimacy of landlords and rental listings.
  • Learn Basic Swedish: While many Swedes speak English, knowing some Swedish can help you navigate housing websites and communicate with landlords.

7. Neighborhoods in Örebro

Here are some popular neighborhoods to consider:

  • City Center (Centrum): Close to shops, restaurants, and public transport. Ideal for professionals and those who enjoy city life.
  • Adolfsberg: A quiet, family-friendly area with parks and schools.
  • Brickebacken: Affordable housing, popular among students and young families.
  • Haga: A residential area with a mix of apartments and houses.
  • Tybble: Close to Örebro University, making it a great choice for students.

8. Additional Resources

  • Örebro Municipality Housing Information: orebro.se
  • Swedish Union of Tenants (Hyresgästföreningen): Offers legal advice and support for tenants. hyresgastforeningen.se

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to find suitable housing in Örebro. If you have any specific questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask!