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Real Estate in Denmark | Digital Nomad Exchange
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Real Estate in Denmark

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By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Feb 06, 2024

Summary: An expat looking to buy a home in Denmark should begin by researching the local real estate market. They should look into the different types of properties available, such as single-family homes, apartments, and townhouses. They should also consider the location of the property, as well as the amenities it offers. Foreigners are allowed to purchase property in Denmark, but there are some restrictions. For example, foreigners must obtain permission from the Danish Ministry of Justice before they can purchase a property. Homes in Denmark typically include amenities such as central heating, modern kitchens, and bathrooms. Many homes also have balconies or terraces, and some may have access to a garden or outdoor space.

How do I find a place to live in Denmark?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Denmark is to use online resources such as BoligPortal, which is a Danish website that allows you to search for rental properties in Denmark. Additionally, you can also use websites such as Lejebolig, which is a Danish rental property website, or Danskeboliger, which is a Danish real estate website. You can also use social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram to search for rental properties in Denmark. Additionally, you can also contact local real estate agents or property management companies to help you find a place to live in Denmark," said one expat in Denmark.

"We needed to rent a furnished apartment or home. That narrowed down our search to only one decently sized townhouse (rakehaus). In hindsight I wished that we had just sucked it up and purchased Ikea furniture to open up our choices. The townhouse was ok but I kicked myself for not listening to my gut instinct that one main bathroom for a family of four just wouldn't work for us. It didn't. And it was a supreme source of frustration because that one bathroom had a shower leak that the owner refused to fix until we moved out and charged us for the repair and cleaning of all the lime buildup. That's common in Denmark -- the owners of rentals will charge you for fixing things they should have fixed while you lived there," remarked one member in Copenhagen.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Denmark?

"My boyfriend who i stay with lives in a share-housing building. Seems it is very rare these days in Denmark/Copenhagen. I guess in the states it would be cooperative living as best translated. People in the building own the building and put in for the up keep of the building. They have a committee that meets about building issues and also meetings where all people of the building come. Here they pay for their shard in the building and from that have a right to live in the building. But they have the flexiblity to change their own living space as if they owned their apartment solely but at a lesser cost as if renting. I dont know why its rare but i would guess it has something to do with the ability to cooperate with others. I think for a lot of people it would just be easier to own it alone and deal with all the issues solely or rent and let someone else deal with the issues," remarked one member in Copenhagen .

"Expat homes and apartments in Denmark tend to be modern and well-equipped, with plenty of natural light and a comfortable, cozy atmosphere. Many expat homes feature open-plan living areas, with large windows and balconies that offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Expat apartments often come with modern amenities such as high-speed internet, cable TV, and air conditioning. Many expat homes and apartments also come with access to shared facilities such as swimming pools, gyms, and saunas," explained one expat living in Denmark.

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What is the average cost of housing in Denmark?

If you are thinking about moving to Denmark, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The average cost of housing in Denmark is generally quite high, with the average price of a home in the country being among the highest in Europe. Renting is also expensive, with the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Copenhagen being around €1,000," said one person in Denmark.

"It's really hard to say. I honestly find it hard to compare prices here and back in the states because you have the exchange rate which makes things seem a lot more here then there when at times its not. But I have heard people say 5k-6k for a rented apartment is on average in Copenhagen. Back home in DC depending where you live that could be cheap or expensive. My area in DC is poorer so we might pay 600 for an apartment. At times we have rented for as little as 475 so Copenhagen is expensive but on averaged compared to Washington, DC its probably cheaper," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Copenhagen .

Should I buy or rent a home in Denmark?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Denmark, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"Buying a home in Denmark can be a great investment, as the country has a strong economy and a stable housing market. However, it is important to consider the cost of living in Denmark, as it is one of the most expensive countries in Europe. Renting a home in Denmark can be a more affordable option, as it allows you to enjoy the benefits of living in Denmark without the long-term commitment of buying a home. Additionally, renting a home in Denmark can provide more flexibility, as you can move to a different area or even a different country if your circumstances change. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Denmark should be based on your individual needs and financial situation," explained one expat living in Denmark.

What do I need to know when buying property in Denmark?

When we asked expats what advice they would give a foreigner before buying a property in Denmark, they said:

"1. It is important to research the local area and the property market before making a purchase. 2. It is advisable to seek legal advice from a qualified lawyer before signing any contracts. 3. It is important to be aware of the taxes and fees associated with buying property in Denmark, such as the transfer tax and registration fees. 4. It is important to be aware of the different types of property available in Denmark, such as single-family homes, apartments, and condominiums. 5. It is important to be aware of the different financing options available in Denmark, such as mortgages and loans. 6. It is important to be aware of the different types of insurance available in Denmark, such as home insurance and liability insurance. 7. It is important to be aware of the different types of contracts available in Denmark, such as rental agreements and purchase contracts. 8. It is important to be aware of the different types of inspections that may be required when buying property in Denmark, such as building inspections and energy efficiency inspections. 9. It is important to be aware of the different types of warranties available in Denmark, such as warranties for appliances and warranties for structural defects. 10. It is important to be aware of the different types of services available in Denmark, such as property management services and home maintenance services," explained one person living in Denmark.

Are foreigners allowed to own property in Denmark?

When we asked expats what advice they would give a foreigner before buying a property in Denmark, they said...

"Yes, foreigners are allowed to own property in Denmark. Non-EU citizens must obtain a residence permit in order to purchase property in Denmark, while EU citizens are allowed to purchase property without a residence permit. However, all foreign citizens must register with the Danish Tax Agency and obtain a tax number in order to purchase property in Denmark," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Denmark.

What appliances are typically included in a rental?

We asked foreigners in Denmark what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included:

"Rental properties in Denmark typically include a refrigerator, stove, oven, and washing machine. Depending on the property, other appliances such as a dishwasher, microwave, and dryer may also be included. Additionally, some properties may include furniture, such as a sofa, bed, and dining table," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Denmark.

Additional Information about Searching for a Home in Denmark:

We asked foreigners in Denmark what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included...

"Expats can search for homes in Denmark by looking at online listings, contacting real estate agents, and attending open houses. They can also search for rental properties on websites such as Lejebolig.dk and BoligPortal.dk. Additionally, expats can join online forums and Facebook groups to connect with other expats and ask for advice on finding a home in Denmark," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Denmark.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

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Contribute to Denmark Network Contribute
Help others in Denmark by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Denmark.

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