Asuntokaupassa signs of cautious rebound

Signs of a cautious rebound are emerging in Finland’s housing market, with average sales times shortening across all property types in June, according to the Finnish Real Estate Federation.

“I have been expecting this turnaround for a long time,” said Tuomas Viljamaa, managing director of the federation. “While it may partly reflect seasonal variation, I believe we have reached a turning point.” He expects shorter sales periods to precede rising prices.

Nationwide, transactions in the first half of 2026 fell 13% compared with the same period last year. In Helsinki, the average time on market in June reached 110 days, up from 56 days in 2021; a balanced market typically sees about two months.

In Lohja, builder Petri Lilja reports growing activity after a sluggish autumn and winter. Half of the 18 units in a new block under construction have sold, and he expects demand to accelerate. Most buyers are older households moving from detached homes toward services.

In Hyvinkää, contractor Sami Vanteen’s Vilhelmiinankatu project has effectively sold out its six units, with multiple backup reservations. Toni Vanne, the firm’s managing director, cites the area’s reputation and spacious layouts—including 85-square-metre two-room flats—as key draws. Typical buyers are older couples downsizing for low-maintenance living.

Viljamaa notes a broader trend of retirees seeking proximity to amenities, a pattern he expects to intensify in coming years.