Housing in Denmark

One thing that stands out in Denmark is the rare cases of  homelessness. Again, the social system and various job opportunities available in the country makes it easy for everyone to have an opportunity to live a decent life.

When you move to Denmark, housing should be the first thing on your priority list. Rarely will you find anyone to take you into their houses even for a bit. Whether you intend to move to Denmark as a student or for work, you will have a personal responsibility of making arrangements on where to live. 

Accommodation facilities and apartments in Denmark 

Depending on why you are moving to Denmark, you can either make arrangements for short term or long term accommodation. Short term accommodations are given by various hotels located in the cities all around Denmark but long term stay needs a more elaborate contract with the housing company.

One thing with the Danish accommodation is that they are designed and fitted with all the necessary equipment which make them liveable. At the very least, a rental house in Denmark is fitted with a toilet and connected to the sewerage system, heating and electricity. Other extra facilities such as dry learning, washing machines, refrigerator and dishwasher fitted in the house will vary from house to house. Obviously, the more things are added to your rental house, the more the monthly rent goes up. 

Housing Companies

Denmark has properly regulated housing companies that take pride in ensuring that every person in the country gets a decent roof over their heads. The companies follow set standards and codes to construct and maintain habitable houses at reasonable monthly rent. In every municipality in Denmark, you will find several housing companies that offer a wide range of housing options.

You can always contact the housing companies directly for enquiries and specifications on what type of house you really need. It is necessary that you contact them prior to relocating to Denmark as it may need a bit of time for them to get a matching house for your rental needs. 

How long does it take to get a house in Denmark? 

Unlike other countries where you will move in and get  a house to start life immediately, Denmark is a bit different. Yes, you may be lucky to find a house on the same day but can also have to wait a couple of weeks before you get one. The housing companies do not just accept your application and give a house.

Typically, they will have to follow due diligence-ensuring that you are legally allowed to live in Denmark. They will need you to submit your civil registration number (CPR) as a proof that you are allowed to get a house. Again, you may be on the waiting list for up to three months as the housing company seeks to get a house which matches your need for floor space, indoor designs, number of rooms and many more. 

You will need to be proactive in signing up for accommodation in Denmark as soon as you are sure to move into the country. However, if you are coming as a student or for work, the receiving institutions will do their bit In making it easy to get a house. Even then, you will still need to be keen on making sure that the house being negotiated for you really matches your expectations. You cannot afford to ignore the house specifications as it will always influence your wellbeing in Denmark. 

Monthly Rent in Denmark 

The cost of living in Denmark is relatively high which means that monthly rent is also high. Actual range of monthly rent in Denmark depend on several factors including the size of house, other facilities fitted, location and so many more. In major cities such as Copenhagen, Aarhus, Aalborg or Odense, the rent is higher than smaller cities. If your work does not strictly require you to be living around a big city, it would be advisable to consider smaller cities and save on the rent. 

The approximate rent that you expect to pay in Denmark for various housing options is as follows. 

• Single room for one person in shared apartment-DKK 4,000 to DKK 6,000. 
• Double room with a kitchen and bathroom inside suitable for children or couples-DKK 8,000 to DKK 10,000.
• Apartments having 2-3 rooms-13,000 to DKK 15,000.
• Large apartments with between 4-6 rooms, kitchen and bathroom-DKK 16,000.

Like I have already mentioned, the range of rent vary from city to city and you may just be lucky to find a cheaper offer. But for a newcomer in Denmark, the above range of rents are reasonable enough so that you do not get frustrated along the way. 

Buying a House in Denmark

If you intend to live in Denmark for an extremely long time or has gotten permanent residence, the best option is to buy your own home. In Denmark, there are old homes located within the cities or its outskirts which you can buy and refurbish to your own liking.

The houses are always expensive and require you to have all the payments together at hand go get ownership. However, the banks are able to give you a loan to buy the home which you repay over a longer period of time. The beauty of buying a home is that after you finish repaying the loan, you have full control over it and can do whatever thing with the space around it. 

Many people who are already sure that they will live in Denmark long enough and have the financial ability often buy their own homes. Your own home will come with enough compound for children to play, a protected car parking space, and many more. If you fancy being in control of your environment then buying a home is an option to take.