Best Conveyancing Lawyers in Finland

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Founded in 2011
English
Lakiasiaintoimisto Atte Niemi is a Lahti-based law office that handles criminal and civil matters across Finland. The firm delivers representation in both investigative stages and court proceedings, and it advises clients on a range of civil law topics including contracts, inheritance, real estate...

Founded in 2011
73 people in their team
English
Asianajotoimisto DLA Piper Finland Oy operates as the Finnish arm of the global DLA Piper network, providing full service corporate and commercial legal advice to companies and public sector clients. The team handles corporate governance, cross-border transactions, commercial contracts and...

Founded in 1998
1 person in their team
English
Asianajotoimisto Juha Santikko is a Turku-based law practice led by Juha Santikko, who has practiced law since 1998 and has served as a licensed attorney since 2003. The firm concentrates on civil dispute resolution for both corporate and private clients, delivering focused, cost-conscious...

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Finnish
English
ATTORNEY ESPOO & HELSINKIOur law office offers legal services to companies and individuals in Espoo and Helsinki, under the management of lawyer Simo Tuomaala and with decades of experience and expertise.We specialize especially in matters related to construction, housing and family and...

Founded in 1997
English
Asianajotoimisto Uronen Oy is a Turku based law firm that specializes in representing private individuals in both civil and criminal matters. The firm has built expertise in family law, real estate disputes, and criminal defense, delivering precise legal analysis, strategic advisory, and effective...

Founded in 1974
3 people in their team
English
Asianajotoimisto Lukkarila & Ahola Oy is a Rovaniemi-based law firm established in 1974, the oldest law firm in town. It remains dynamic and in touch with its times and provides the best possible help for legal problems. The firm is part of Opuslex, a national network of independent law firms, and...
Asianajotoimisto Tuomo Tapper Ky
Jyväskylä, Finland

Founded in 1997
English
Asianajotoimisto Tuomo Tapper Ky is a Jyväskylä based law firm led by Tuomo Tapper, a varatuomari and attorney. He began practicing law in 1989 after completing his studies at the University of Turku and the training required for the varatuomari title. The office is located in Jyväskylä city...
Attorneys Vesa Thureson Oy
Paimio, Finland

Founded in 2013
12 people in their team
English
Attorneys Vesa Thureson Oy is a Finnish law firm based in Turku and Paimio that concentrates on litigation and comprehensive legal services for both private clients and businesses. The firm emphasises dispute resolution, real estate conflicts, company law matters and family and inheritance issues,...
Hannes Snellman
Helsinki, Finland

Founded in 1909
250 people in their team
English
Hannes Snellman is a leading Finnish business law firm with a heritage dating back to 1909. The firm combines deep Nordic roots with a broad international reach, supported by approximately 250 dedicated professionals who advise domestic and international clients on complex corporate matters,...
Markelin & Somppi
Helsinki, Finland

5 people in their team
English
Markelin & Somppi Oy is a Finnish law firm delivering focused counsel to individuals and businesses across Helsinki and Western Finland. The practice encompasses family law, real estate matters, tax planning and dispute resolution, supported by a team that combines in depth legal knowledge with...
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About Conveyancing Law in Finland

Conveyancing in Finland refers to the legal and administrative procedures involved in transferring ownership of real estate and property from one person or entity to another. The Finnish property system is regulated by a well-established legal framework designed to protect the rights of both buyers and sellers. Property transactions typically include residential homes, land parcels, apartments held under housing companies, and commercial properties. The conveyancing process ensures transparency, accuracy in documentation, and clear transfer of legal title.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Many individuals seek legal assistance during conveyancing to avoid costly mistakes and ensure a smooth transaction. Some common situations where legal expertise is beneficial include:

  • Purchasing or selling residential or commercial real estate
  • Reviewing and drafting sale and purchase agreements
  • Verifying the seller's legal title and property encumbrances
  • Resolving disputes related to property boundaries or ownership
  • Advising on inheritance or gifting of property
  • Navigating complex regulations with housing companies (asunto-osakeyhtiö)
  • Handling property transactions involving foreign citizens or non-residents

Lawyers ensure that your transaction meets all legal requirements, that the terms are fair, and that any potential risks are identified and addressed before signing any agreement.

Local Laws Overview

The legal landscape for conveyancing in Finland is shaped by national statutes and official registers. Here are some key aspects:

  • All property transactions must be in writing and comply with the requirements of the Finnish Code of Real Estate (Maakaari).
  • Transfers of title must be registered with the National Land Survey of Finland (Maanmittauslaitos).
  • For apartments within a housing company, transactions are governed by the Housing Companies Act (Asunto-osakeyhtiölaki).
  • Foreign buyers generally have the same rights as Finnish citizens but may need to notify the Ministry of Defence when acquiring property in certain areas.
  • Conveyancing often involves checking for mortgages, liens, easements, or other encumbrances registered in the official property registry.
  • Taxes, such as the transfer tax (varainsiirtovero), must be paid by the buyer upon completion of the transaction.
  • Special procedures apply when dealing with property inheritance or transfer due to marital changes.

Each step in the process must follow strict formalities, and missing any legal requirement can lead to delays or annulment of the transaction.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is conveyancing in Finland?

Conveyancing is the legal process of transferring the ownership of land, property, or an apartment share from one party to another. It includes preparing contracts, conducting due diligence, and registering the new owner with the authorities.

Do I need a lawyer to buy or sell property in Finland?

While not always required by law, it is highly recommended to use a lawyer for legal clarity, risk mitigation, and ensuring all regulatory requirements are met, especially in more complex transactions.

What documents are required for a property transaction?

Typically, you need a written deed of sale, proof of identity, property registry extracts, mortgage certificates (if applicable), and documents confirming payment of transfer tax.

How is the ownership of property registered?

Ownership is transferred by registering the sale with the National Land Survey, which updates the official Land Register (kiinteistörekisteri).

What is the transfer tax and who pays it?

The transfer tax (varainsiirtovero) is paid by the buyer. The rate is usually 4 percent for real estate and 2 percent for apartment shares. Payment must be completed before registration of ownership.

How long does a typical conveyancing process take?

The time frame can vary, but most straightforward transactions are completed within a few weeks. More complex cases may take longer due to additional due diligence or regulatory steps.

What are common pitfalls in Finnish conveyancing?

Pitfalls include not verifying the legal status of property, overlooking existing debts or liens, failing to pay the correct taxes, and misunderstanding the housing company rules for apartments.

Can foreigners buy real estate in Finland?

Yes, most foreigners can freely buy property in Finland. However, purchases in certain areas may require additional notification to authorities, such as the Ministry of Defence.

What happens if there is an existing mortgage on the property?

The mortgage must be settled or transferred as part of the transaction. This is handled during the conveyancing process to ensure a clear title passes to the new owner.

Is it possible to revoke a property sale after signing?

It is generally difficult to revoke a property sale once all legal requirements are fulfilled and the registration is complete, except in cases of fraud or serious contractual breach.

Additional Resources

For more information or assistance with conveyancing in Finland, consider contacting:

  • National Land Survey of Finland (Maanmittauslaitos) for registry services
  • Finnish Bar Association for finding licensed lawyers
  • Local municipality offices for information on zoning and planning regulations
  • Bank or financial institutions for mortgage guidance
  • Housing company management for apartment transactions

These organizations provide official information, support, and professional services to facilitate secure property transactions.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance with conveyancing in Finland, consider these actions:

  • Gather all relevant documents such as property extracts, identity papers, and previous agreements.
  • Consult a qualified lawyer who specializes in conveyancing law to review your situation.
  • Clarify any uncertainties about the transaction, including taxation, mortgages, and ownership rights.
  • Follow your lawyer's guidance for preparing, reviewing, and signing all necessary documents.
  • Make sure to register the duly completed transaction with the National Land Survey or housing company as appropriate.

Starting early and securing sound legal advice are crucial steps in ensuring a smooth and successful property transaction in Finland.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Finland through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Conveyancing, experience, and client feedback.

Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters.

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Disclaimer:

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.

We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.