Rental agency founded by Virpi Aron in Seinäjoki thrives amidst supportive entrepreneurial culture

Lilja Vuokravälitys is a rental agency founded last year by Virpi Aron from Seinäjoki, focusing on housing rentals. Aron felt it was time to pursue her long-held dream before turning 50. “This has been exciting. Until now, I was always in salaried positions. Of course, I worried about making ends meet,” she reflects on her past feelings. Her concerns proved unfounded, as many clients have followed her into her new business.

Aron began her career in hotel customer service and gradually transitioned to rental property brokerage via sales services. In her last job, she held a managerial position overseeing other brokers. “I enjoyed my job, but I wanted to work directly with clients and independently.”

For several years, Seinäjoki has ranked highly in Finland for entrepreneurship friendliness, according to various barometers and surveys. Harri Jaskari from Finnish Entrepreneurs notes that the local entrepreneurs emphasize a supportive atmosphere, aided by the city’s swift decision-making and solution-oriented approach. “The culture of entrepreneurship seems ingrained here,” he comments, adding that the city’s size facilitates connections among residents, enhancing collaboration.

While Seinäjoki has been positively evaluated for its public sector initiatives, there is still room for improvement, particularly regarding competition with private businesses.

Jukka Pajunen, head of client services at Inton, Seinäjoki’s development company, emphasizes the importance of active dialogue between entrepreneurs and local organizations. Aron received substantial support from various local agencies when starting her business. She believes that regardless of where an aspiring entrepreneur seeks assistance, moving forward is the most crucial aspect—guidance will follow.

In her role, Aron experiences the full spectrum of life, often witnessing transitions such as first apartments and engagements. She loves the freedom her entrepreneurial path offers and names her agency after her energetic grandmother, who is her inspiration.