Turku student addresses housing stigma linked to parental ownership in Vantaa

Emmi Vlasov, a 21-year-old student studying in Turku, has sometimes felt embarrassed to share details about her living situation. The discomfort does not stem from her residence in Louhelan, Vantaa, but rather from the fact that her father owns the apartment. “Initially, I was concerned, as my situation is quite different from that of others. Sometimes I paid rent, and sometimes my father did,” she said.

Although Vlasov comes from an ordinary family, they were able to purchase the apartment when the opportunity arose. She jokes about inquiries into her wealth, noting that apartments in Louhelan are relatively affordable compared to other areas. Once her living arrangements became known, reactions were generally positive. “It’s important to be open about what options are available,” she added.

Currently, Vlasov lives in a rental unit with her partner while searching for a home to buy, likely with financial support from her father. Many real estate agents have reported a spike in home-buying activity in late summer, particularly among parents of students starting their higher education.

Tuomas Viljamaa, CEO of the Central Association of Real Estate Agents, noted a resurgence of interest in smaller apartments in major university cities. Despite a slower market compared to previous years, agents report increased activity and optimism. Carita Wihanto, a sales manager at Huoneistokeskus, emphasizes that the stereotype of only wealthy families buying properties is a myth; ordinary Finnish families also invest in real estate.

As of the summer months, the average sale price for a studio apartment in Turku was approximately €115,000, whereas prices in Helsinki and Tampere were significantly higher.