Finding a home, signing a tenancy agreement, moving, and settling into everyday routines can raise many questions. With these tips, you’ll take care of the practicalities and quickly settle into your new routine.

When searching for a home, it’s worth thinking about your everyday needs first. Would you like to live close to your place of study, workplace or friends? How much are you willing to spend on rent each month? 

On lumo.fi, you can browse available homes based on location, size and rental price. The map view helps you explore different neighbourhoods, and by setting up a search alert, you’ll be notified as soon as new homes become available.

Once you’ve found a home you like, you can rent it easily on lumo.fi. First, you’ll pay a reservation fee or your first month’s rent and then have the opportunity to view the apartment.

There’s no security deposit to pay, which can make moving into your first home easier on your budget. If the apartment doesn’t feel like the right fit after all, your reservation fee will be refunded.

Absolutely.

Sharing a home is often one of the most affordable ways to live, as rent and other expenses are divided between several people. With the same budget, you may be able to get more space, and purchases such as furniture and household items can be shared.

For many people, shared living also offers a sense of community. Everyday moments, challenges and even late-night snacks can be enjoyed together.

You can also find homes suitable for shared living on lumo.fi.

Once your lease agreement has been signed, it’s a good idea to take care of the practical arrangements well before moving day.

Make sure you remember:

• Filing a change of address notification
• Setting up an electricity contract
• Taking out home insurance
• Applying for housing benefits through Kela, if applicable

You don’t need to buy everything at once.

To begin with, a bed, basic kitchen essentials, cleaning supplies and a few everyday necessities are enough. Many people are surprised by how little they actually need during the first few weeks.

Before buying new items, it’s also worth asking friends and family whether they have any spare furniture or household items. You can often furnish your first home surprisingly well with second-hand finds.

Start packing your belongings well in advance and arrange any moving help ahead of time. Moving becomes much easier when the practical details are already taken care of.

Once you receive the keys, take some time to inspect the apartment and, if necessary, photograph any existing marks or signs of wear and tear. This helps document the condition of the home when you move in.

Tip: Many grocery stores give away banana boxes for free. They’re solid, stackable and perfect for moving.

Your first home is rarely your forever home.

Studies, work, relationships or even getting a pet can quickly change your housing needs.

With Lumo, you can move from one Lumo home to another without a minimum residency period if you need more space, a smaller home or a different location as your circumstances change.

Absolutely.

There are many ways to personalise a rental home. Your own furniture, textiles, lighting and décor choices can quickly make a space feel like home.

Lumo residents can also take advantage of the Lumo paint benefit. Paint is provided free of charge, and you can choose colours that suit your style. A fresh coat of paint is an easy way to update your home and make it feel even more personal.

Yes, you can.

Pets are welcome in all Lumo homes. They’re family members too, so there’s no need to limit your housing search because of them.

When looking for a home with a pet, it’s worth considering the surrounding area as well. Nearby parks, walking routes and outdoor spaces can make everyday life easier for both you and your pet.

While renting a Lumo home is designed to be easy and worry-free, tenants also have responsibilities.

Taking care of your home through simple everyday habits, such as regular cleaning, keeping drains clear and ensuring good ventilation, helps keep your living environment comfortable and in good condition.

If you notice a fault or something breaks, it’s important to report it as soon as possible. In Lumo homes, maintenance requests can be submitted easily through My Lumo, where our experts will help resolve the issue and arrange any necessary repairs as quickly as possible.

Don’t stress too much.

Everything doesn’t have to be perfect on day one. A home comes together gradually, and the most important thing is finding a place where you feel comfortable, at ease and free to live your everyday life.

Most importantly, enjoy this unique stage of life. For many people, a first home is the first step towards independent living, new experiences and building a home of their own.