Freehold real estate (fastighet)
Real property, such as a detached house with its land, is governed by the Land Code (jordabalken). A purchase must be made by a written purchase document signed by both seller and buyer, containing a statement of transfer and the price. The buyer must then apply for registration of title (lagfart) with Lantmäteriet, the Swedish mapping, cadastral and land registration authority. Stamp duty is generally payable on registration.
Apartments held as bostadsrätt
Most owner-occupied apartments in Sweden are held as a bostadsrätt. The holder is a member of a tenant-owner association (bostadsrättsförening) that owns the building, and holds a right to use a particular apartment for an unlimited period. A bostadsrätt is therefore not ownership of the apartment as real property; legally it is movable property.
Transfers of a bostadsrätt are governed by the Tenant-Owner Act (bostadsrättslagen). The contract must be in writing and signed, and the buyer must be accepted as a member by the association. The financial position of the association should be examined before purchase.
Purchase contracts
Swedish property transactions often involve an estate agent, but the agent represents both parties in a balanced role and is not the buyer's legal adviser. Clauses concerning defects, inspection, conditions and liability should be reviewed carefully before signing, particularly by buyers unfamiliar with Swedish practice.
International owners
Sweden does not generally restrict foreign nationals from buying property. International owners should, however, consider questions such as matrimonial property, inheritance, taxation, and the management of the property while living abroad.
Ownership and co-ownership
Property owned by several persons is subject to the Co-ownership Act (samäganderättslagen) unless otherwise agreed. As a main rule, a co-owner may apply to the court for the property to be sold at public auction. A co-ownership agreement can help prevent disputes.
Frequently asked questions
Is a bostadsrätt the same as owning a flat?
No. A bostadsrätt is a right of use linked to membership of an association that owns the building.
Can I buy a holiday home in Sweden while living abroad?
Generally yes. Foreign residents may buy Swedish property, but legal and tax consequences should be considered in advance.
This page provides general information about Swedish law and is not legal advice. The outcome of any matter depends on its specific facts.