Housing 101
Finding housing can be stressful in a new city, especially on a student budget. BUT HAVE NO FEAR. I have compiled this little guide to help prospective students with this stressful task. Hopefully this can relieve some stress so you can enjoy your first days in the city!
My experience (and therefore most of my information) comes from experience with HOAS apartments. I will explain more on this later, but understand that this information can change any time and that it's best to follow all directions that your apartment provider gives you.
STEP 1: WHAT APARTMENT DO YOU WANT?
The first thing you need to do is figure out what kind of apartment you are looking for.
Follow this chart to see what kind is best for your ideal situation.
*rent prices are based off of student apartment prices and are subject to change.
STEP 2: APPLY AS SOON AS POSSIBLE
The most popular source to go through is HOAS- an organization dedicated to helping students find affordable housing. Most students go through HOAS, so it's really important that you apply ASAP. It can take anywhere from weeks to months to hear if you got an apartment or not. Just be sure to pay attention to the application and re-submit it if it expires (usually after 3 months). For more information on HOAS, visit their official website at hoas.fi.
Other than HOAS, there are some private sectors to look into. Those are a little more difficult to go through and cost more money.
If you are worried that you haven't gotten an apartment placement, but your semester beginning is approaching, then you can also check out online resources like facebook groups (such as "Vuokra-asunnot Helsinki" or "Helsinki flatmate finder"). Just BE CAUTIOUS as there is always a small chance that the posts can be fake. (I do have to admit that I rented my apartment out for summer last year via this method and had no problem, but you should always be suspicious and make a contract).
STEP 3: ACCEPT/DENY
Finally, when the time comes to accept/deny your apartment match, DO IT ASAP. Punctuality is important and if you miss your deadline, you risk losing your apartment. If you deny your apartment match, understand that this means that you might not get another apartment option.
STEP 4: PICK UP YOUR KEY
If you are using HOAS, picking up your key will be a tale. If it's a month that most students move in on (August or January), then expect to wait in line a couple of hours. It's best to go to the office early, get your number in line and hang out. Be sure to take your ID and any paperwork that HOAS requires so that the process can go as smoothly as possible.
There will be A LOT of people there. BUT you will get your key and then you can focus on everything you have to unpack.
STEP 5: MOVE IN AND ENJOY
Once you move in, also check for any Facebook groups for the apartment complex and any tenant committee present. They will be the ones you can tell your issues to regarding the apartments and can help you adapt to your new home. If you live in a HOAS apartment, there will be a chance to join the committee as well. Be sure to be on the look out for info about that in Fall.
Finally, ENJOY! Say hi to your neighbors, don't burn down your apartment, have a great house-warming party and enjoy living in one of the greatest cities on Earth!
