Kiinteistöyhtiöt

Kiinteistöyhtiöt are Finnish real estate companies that own and manage immovable property. They are typically organized as osakeyhtiö (limited liability companies) and may own residential, commercial, or industrial properties, or act as holding companies for a real estate portfolio. The term is commonly used for entities that hold title to real estate and handle leasing, development, or property management activities.

Legal framework and governance: Kiinteistöyhtiöt operate under the Finnish Limited Liability Companies Act (Osakeyhtiölaki). They are governed by a general meeting and a board of directors, and may have a managing director. Annual financial statements must be prepared and filed, and the company is registered in the Trade Register. Depending on size, auditing and reporting requirements apply.

Activities and structures: They can own office buildings, shopping centers, logistics facilities, or residential rental properties, and generate income primarily from rents and property development or sale. Real estate investment often involves portfolio management, financing arrangements, property maintenance, and compliance with real estate-related regulations, including tax rules and VAT for rental operations.

Relationship to other forms: Kiinteistöyhtiöt are distinct from asunto-osakeyhtiöt (housing companies), which own a building and manage common areas for residents in a housing arrangement, typically under specific legislation. Kiinteistöyhtiö may function as holding companies for several properties or as developers and owners of rental assets. In practice, real estate investment structures can combine different ownership models.