Co-op (bostadsrätt) or house — what’s different?

Bostadsrätt (tenant-owner co-op)

You buy a share in a housing cooperative — you do not own the building outright. You pay a monthly fee (avgift) for operations, association loans, and maintenance. The bank still secures the loan against your apartment.

Pros: often lower entry price in cities, less building maintenance on you.
Cons: dependent on association finances; fees can rise.

House (villa / småhus)

You own the property (leasehold or freehold). You pay for maintenance, insurance, and major repairs.

Pros: control; no association fee (but all costs are yours).
Cons: higher and less predictable upkeep.

Lending and valuation

The bank values the unit and, for co-ops, the association. Weak associations can mean worse terms or stricter amortization.

Read the due diligence article before signing on a bostadsrätt.