# What is a First-Hand Lease and How Do You Get One? *12 juli 2026* > A first-hand lease is the dream for many seeking housing in Sweden. Learn what it entails and how to increase your chances of obtaining one. ## What is a First-Hand Lease? A first-hand lease is the most sought-after form of rental agreement in Sweden. It means you rent your home directly from the property owner or landlord, without an intermediary. Holding a first-hand lease grants you strong rights and significant security. Unlike a second-hand lease, where you rent from someone who is themselves renting the property, a first-hand lease establishes a direct relationship with the property owner. This is a crucial difference that impacts everything from rent levels to your ability to influence your living environment. ### Benefits of a First-Hand Lease The advantages of a first-hand lease are numerous and substantial. The primary benefit is security. You have a direct contract with the landlord, reducing the risk of unexpected terminations or issues. The landlord is responsible for maintaining the property and ensuring it is in good condition. Furthermore, you often have more scope to influence your living situation, such as making renovations or certain adaptations to the apartment (with the landlord's approval). Another significant advantage is the possibility of subletting. With a first-hand lease, you typically have the right, with the landlord's permission, to sublet your home for a limited period. This can be practical if you need to move temporarily, work in another location, or wish to earn some extra income. However, the rules regarding subletting are strict and always require the landlord's approval to avoid forfeiture of the contract. The rent for a first-hand lease is often more predictable and can be lower than for second-hand rentals. Rent negotiations occur between the Tenants' Association (Hyresgästföreningen) and property owners, providing a degree of stability and protection against unreasonable rent increases. You also have stronger tenant protection rights, meaning the landlord has difficulty terminating your contract without a valid reason. ## How Do You Get a First-Hand Lease? Acquiring a first-hand lease in today's housing market, especially in major cities, can be challenging. Waiting lists for first-hand leases with municipal housing companies and private landlords can be extremely long, sometimes spanning decades. However, there are strategies and methods you can employ to increase your chances. ### Housing Queues The most common way to obtain a first-hand lease is by joining a housing queue. Most municipal housing companies have their own queue systems. Registering early is crucial, even if it feels like a long-term strategy. Some queues are free to join, while others require an annual fee. It's important to stay updated on the rules for the various housing queues you are registered in. Once you are in the queue, offers for contracts are often based on how long you have been registered. However, other factors may also come into play, such as point systems based on need or other criteria used by the landlord. Actively seeking information and understanding how the different queue systems work is therefore important. ### Private Landlords and Housing Agencies In addition to municipal housing companies, numerous private landlords and housing agencies rent out apartments. These may sometimes have shorter waiting lists or different selection processes. Monitoring their websites and applying directly can yield results. Some private entities use their own point systems or organize viewings where you can express your interest on-site. Housing agencies can be a valuable resource, as they aggregate many different landlords and properties in one place. However, be aware that some agencies may charge a fee for their services. ### Networking and Social Connections Do not underestimate the power of your own network. Sometimes, a first-hand lease opportunity can arise through acquaintances, colleagues, or by actively informing your social circle that you are looking for housing. While this is not a guaranteed method, it can sometimes lead to opportunities that are not publicly advertised. ### What to Consider When Applying When you get the chance to apply for a first-hand lease, it's important to be prepared. Landlords often require a credit check to ensure you can pay the rent. They may also ask for references from your current landlord or employer. Having a stable income and a good payment history is therefore crucial. Also, be prepared for apartments with first-hand leases to be rented out quickly, so act proactively when an offer appears. ## First-Hand Lease Rules and Pitfalls Although a first-hand lease offers significant advantages, there are rules and potential pitfalls that are important to be aware of. Understanding these rules can help you maintain your contract and avoid problems. ### Termination of the Contract As a first-hand tenant, you have strong tenant protection rights. This means the landlord cannot terminate the agreement arbitrarily. There must be valid reasons, such as you as a tenant mismanaging the apartment, not paying rent on time, or repeatedly disturbing your neighbors. If the landlord still terminates the contract, you usually have the right to contest the termination at the Rent Tribunal (Hyresnämnden). You, as the tenant, can terminate your contract with one month's notice, which expires at the end of the month. It is important that your notice is in writing and that you receive confirmation from the landlord. ### Subletting and Subletting Rules As mentioned earlier, you have the option to sublet your apartment with a first-hand lease, but it always requires the landlord's permission. If you sublet without permission, or if the subletting is not time-limited and approved, you risk losing your first-hand lease. The landlord may consider it an unauthorized sublet. Therefore, it is crucial to follow the formal requirements and obtain all permissions in writing. ### Rent Negotiations and Increases The rent for a first-hand lease is determined through collective negotiations between the Tenants' Association and property owners. This system aims to create a fair and predictable rent level. As a tenant, you have the right to be a member of the Tenants' Association and participate in negotiations indirectly. If you believe the rent is unreasonable, you can turn to the Rent Tribunal for a review. ### What Happens If You Misbehave? Mismanaging a first-hand lease can have serious consequences. This could involve not paying rent, neglecting the apartment, or disturbing neighbors. In severe cases, the landlord can apply for eviction through the Enforcement Authority (Kronofogden). It is therefore important to always fulfill your obligations as a tenant and to contact the landlord if problems arise, rather than letting them escalate. ### FAQ ### What is the biggest difference between a first-hand and a second-hand lease? The biggest difference is that a first-hand lease is a direct agreement with the property owner, while a second-hand lease is an agreement with someone who is themselves renting the property and subletting it. A first-hand lease grants you stronger rights and security. ### How long does it usually take to get a first-hand lease? It varies enormously depending on the location and landlord. In major cities, it can take anywhere from a few years to over 20 years to get a first-hand lease through municipal housing queues. In smaller towns, it can be significantly faster. ### Can I buy a first-hand lease? No, it is illegal to buy or sell first-hand leases. It is only permissible to charge a reasonable fee for furniture and fixtures in an approved sublet. Buying or selling a contract can lead to its forfeiture. ### What should I do if I'm having trouble getting a first-hand lease? Focus on accumulating queue points by joining several different housing queues. Also, explore private landlords and housing agencies. Consider moving to a smaller town where waiting times are shorter. Review your options for temporary housing, such as a student apartment or a room in a shared housing, while you wait. ### Is it more expensive to rent a home with a first-hand lease? Generally, the rent for a first-hand lease is lower and more predictable than for a second-hand rental. The rent is regulated through negotiations between the Tenants' Association and property owners, providing protection against excessive rent increases.