Kiinteistöosakas

Kiinteistöosakas is a Finnish term that translates to "real estate shareholder" or "property shareholder." It refers to an individual or entity that owns shares in a housing company (asunto-osakeyhtiö) or a real estate limited company (kiinteistöosakeyhtiö). These companies own real estate, such as apartment buildings or commercial properties. By owning shares, the kiinteistöosakas has a right to use specific premises within the property, typically an apartment or a business space, and also has a say in the company's management and decisions through shareholder meetings.

The rights and obligations of a kiinteistöosakas are primarily determined by the Finnish Companies Act and the company's articles of association. Shareholders are responsible for their share of the company's expenses, which are usually collected as monthly housing company fees (yhtiövastike). These fees cover maintenance, repairs, loan repayments, and other operational costs of the property. Decisions regarding major renovations, significant financial investments, or changes to the company's rules are made by the shareholders collectively.

A kiinteistöosakas can sell their shares, thereby transferring their right of use to the new owner. The process of buying or selling shares involves a share purchase agreement and registration with the company's shareholder list. Unlike direct property ownership where an individual owns the physical land and building, with kiinteistöosakas ownership, one owns a stake in the company that owns the property. This structure is very common in Finland for apartment ownership.