# What is a First-Hand Lease and How Do You Get One? *22 juni 2026* > A first-hand lease is a dream for many tenants in Sweden. Learn what it means and how to increase your chances of getting one. Finding a home in Sweden can be a challenge, especially in major metropolitan areas. Many dream of secure and stable housing, and a **first-hand lease** is often the most sought-after option. But what does it actually mean to have a first-hand lease, and what steps do you need to take to secure one? This is your comprehensive guide to the first-hand lease – from basic definitions and benefits to strategies for navigating the housing market and increasing your chances of success. ## What is a First-Hand Lease? A **first-hand lease** is a rental agreement you sign directly with the property owner or landlord. It means you are the primary tenant and have the full rights and responsibilities associated with the lease. Unlike a second-hand lease, where you rent from someone who is themselves renting the property, a first-hand lease offers significantly greater security and stability. ### Rights and Responsibilities With a first-hand lease, you have the right to live in the apartment as long as you pay the rent and adhere to the terms of the lease. You also have the right to terminate the agreement according to the notice periods (usually three months). The landlord cannot terminate the contract arbitrarily; valid reasons according to the Tenancy Act are required. You also have responsibilities, such as paying rent on time, taking care of the apartment, and following the house rules. One of the major advantages of a first-hand lease is the possibility to transfer the contract to a close relative under certain conditions, which is not as straightforward with second-hand leases. ## Benefits of a First-Hand Lease Why is the first-hand lease so coveted? The reasons are many and primarily relate to security, stability, and freedom. ### Security and Stability The main benefit is long-term security. When you have a first-hand lease, you can feel confident that you have a home for an extended period, without the risk of the original tenant suddenly needing the property back (which can happen with second-hand rentals). ### Ability to Influence and Renovate With a first-hand lease, you often have more freedom to put your personal touch on the property. Depending on the landlord's rules, you may be permitted to repaint, re-wallpaper, or even undertake minor renovations. This provides a sense of truly owning and shaping your home. ### Access to Housing Agency Queue Systems For many, the dream of a **first-hand lease** becomes a reality through the queuing systems of housing agencies or private landlords. Accumulating queue points over time is a common strategy to increase the chances of obtaining a desirable contract. ### Possibility for Subletting Even if you have a first-hand lease, there may be situations where you need to sublet, for example, during studies or work in another location. With permission from the landlord, this is usually possible with a first-hand lease, providing a flexibility that is lacking in many other forms of housing. ## How to Get a First-Hand Lease Acquiring a first-hand lease can be a lengthy process requiring patience and strategy. Here are some of the most common avenues and tips for success. ### Housing Queues – The Traditional Route The most established method is to join the housing queue at municipal housing agencies or private property companies. In many cities, like Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö, waiting times are often very long, sometimes years or even decades for the most popular areas. It's important to be active and register with multiple providers to maximize your chances. ### Private Landlords and Internal Queues In addition to municipal housing agencies, many private landlords have their own internal queue systems. It's worth researching which landlords operate in your desired area and signing up for their queues. Sometimes, these queues may have shorter waiting times than the municipal ones. ### Networks and Contacts In some cases, personal connections can play a role, although it's not an official channel. Telling friends, family, and colleagues that you are looking for housing can lead to unexpected opportunities. However, be aware that this does not replace formal queue systems and should always be done in accordance with the landlord's rules. ### Home Swaps If you already have a rental contract, either a first-hand or a second-hand lease with permission, you can explore the possibility of a home swap. There are platforms and forums where you can advertise your current contract in exchange for another. This can be a faster way to acquire a desired contract, but it often requires finding someone who has exactly what you're looking for and who, in turn, wants what you offer. ### Be Active and Prepared When you get the opportunity to apply for an apartment, be ready. Have all necessary documents prepared: identification, employment contract, payslips, and possibly a credit report. Be quick to express interest when a suitable apartment is advertised. Understanding **first-hand lease regulations** is also crucial to know what applies during any negotiation or contract signing. ## Frequently Asked Questions about First-Hand Leases ### ### What is the difference between a first-hand and a second-hand lease? A first-hand lease is an agreement directly with the property owner, giving you the strongest rights and security. A second-hand lease means you are renting from someone who holds a first-hand lease themselves, and your rights are more limited. You are dependent on both the primary tenant and the property owner. ### ### Can I profit from my first-hand lease by subletting? Yes, it's possible to sublet your apartment with permission from the landlord. You can charge a rent equivalent to your own rent plus a small percentage for furnishings and utilities, but you cannot make a significant profit. Subletting without permission can lead to the loss of your contract. ### ### How long does it usually take to get a first-hand lease? It varies enormously depending on the city and area. In major cities, it can take anywhere from 5-10 years to over 20 years through municipal housing queues. In smaller towns or for less desirable apartments, it can be significantly faster. ### ### What happens if I can't pay the rent for my first-hand lease? If you cannot pay the rent, you risk eviction. The landlord can turn to the Enforcement Authority (Kronofogden) for assistance in collecting the debt and obtaining a writ of execution. Having a payment default record can also make it harder to secure new contracts in the future. ### ### Can I get a first-hand lease without being on a waiting list? It's uncommon, but not impossible. Some smaller private landlords may occasionally rent out apartments directly without requiring long waiting times, especially if there's an urgent need. Monitoring listings and responding quickly is key in such situations.