Is a Foreigner Easily Able To Buy a House In Norway?
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There are few places on Earth as stunning as Norway. No matter what kind of traveler you are, Norway’s vast landscape and vibrant cities are sure to have something that appeals to you. In a place with such breathtaking scenery, many people dream of retiring or starting a new life in Norway. There is a lot of groundwork to lay first, though. If you’re thinking about making Norway your new home, you can do so in any number of cities, from Oslo to Drammen.
It’s natural to have concerns if you’re a foreigner considering a move to Norway. In this article, we will start with a discussion of whether or not foreigners can purchase real estate in Norway, followed by an examination of the potential costs and loans in Norway as well as an analysis of the property’s value, possible locations, and how to begin one’s search.
Things to keep in mind when buying house in Norway as a foreigner
Following are the few things that one should keep in mind when buying a house in Norway as a foreigner. But if you want to get the best deals, check out Norwegian online reviews to find the best services and agents.
1. Citizenship
Norway’s property market is open to non-citizens. Foreigners can buy property in Norway without restrictions. If you have your residence permit, you can buy it immediately. Without Norwegian citizenship, you can buy a second home in Europe. Owning property in Norway will only speed up citizenship and visa processing.
2. Mortgage Application
In Norway, a mortgage application is the first step in home buying. Most Norwegian banks offer mortgages. Hus bank, the Norwegian State Housing Bank, provides grants for new home construction and renovations. You can also consult different Norwegian finance companies to see what kind of mortgage you can get and what is the complete process.
3. Boplikt/ Residence Duty
The residence duty is a municipal law that compels house owners to have someone living there. The residency regulations are complicated, but you must live in Norway for at least five years and not utilize the property as a cabin or second house.
4. Classifications of Residences
Numerous housing types are available in Norway. Freehold properties, condominiums, and Leased-land properties are options. Learn what you need and what you’re required to have before you apply. You can also check online sites for Norwegian finance companies to get financial help or advice.
5. Property Tax and House Cost
Each Norwegian municipality can choose to impose a property tax, although it’s becoming frequent. Government sets the maximum property tax at 0.0004% of the property’s worth. Norway’s living costs vary by region. According to Statista, Oslo has the country’s highest housing prices, with the average cost of a home at 6,128,484 Norwegian Kroner in February 2022 — just over $636,000 in US Dollars or £508,500 in the UK.
Final Verdict
Living in Norway is like living in paradise. Anyone can buy any property in Norway because the market is unregulated. As in other countries, you make an offer on a property, and the sellers can accept it or wait for a better one.
It is money that rules for sellers, not nationality. A government seizure of your property is not a concern in Norway. Problems are more likely if you have broken the law or failed to pay your taxes, but if you’ve followed the law, you’re in good shape.