OP Uusimaa Sales volumes of holiday homes in Uusimaa at a pre-Covid-19 level
Statistics by the Central Federation of Finnish Real Estate Agencies show that sales volumes of holiday homes in Uusimaa rose by around 23 per cent in 2024 compared to 2023. Sales volumes were at the same level as in 2018, that is, before the holiday cabin boom caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Throughout Finland, sales increased by approximately 20 per cent, and the largest number of holiday home sales was completed in the provinces of Uusimaa and Pirkanmaa.
As in previous years, the most sought-after municipalities for holiday homes in the Uusimaa region were Lohja and Raasepori. Holiday home sales were also active in Loviisa, and sales volumes doubled in 2024 compared to the previous year. The most popular locations were Pusula in Lohja, Tammisaari centre in Raasepori, and the city centre in Loviisa.
The peak season for holiday home sales is June.
- This year’s season has not yet begun, but people in Finland usually start looking for holiday homes actively in the spring. “I expect this year to be busier than last year in terms of holiday cabins, says Managing Director of OP Koti Uusimaa, Satu Astala.
Big differences in holiday home prices in Uusimaa
In Uusimaa, the average debt-free sales price varies greatly between locations. For example, the average price in Hanko was more than 360,000 euros in 2024, whereas a holiday home could be purchased from Karkkila centre for less than 100,000 euros on average. Overall in Uusimaa, the average debt-free sales price is approximately 163,000 euros.
There is significantly more demand than supply in holiday homes, because many cabins are transferred via families’ internal arrangements. Holiday homes located within good routes and in good condition are perceived as the most interesting.
- This year, quality holiday homes are also sought for a reasonable price within approximately one hour’s drive from home. In addition, many buyers may appreciate sports and other services nearby, such as a golf course or sports hall. Moreover, there is a renewed demand for holiday cabin plots after many quiet years, Satu Astala describes the holiday home market in Uusimaa.
Loans granted for holiday homes also on the rise
According to OP Uusimaa’s statistics, loans granted for holiday homes increased by around 13 per cent (number of loans) in 2024, and around 5 per cent (euros) compared to the previous year. The average size of holiday home loans granted by OP Uusimaa grew approximately 8 per cent in 2024 compared to 2023.
According to OP Uusimaa’s statistics, the average loan granted for the purchase of a holiday home is around 95,000 euros.
- Of course, many Uusimaa residents look for a holiday home outside Uusimaa or neighbouring areas. “Nowadays, a holiday home is much more than just a summer cabin for many people. It’s common to work remotely from there, for example,” estimates Riikka Kangas, OP Uusimaa’s SVP, Financing for Personal Customers.