The Ultimate Guide to Renting Apartments for Business Professionals in Norway

Introduction

Finding the right corporate apartment in Norway can be far more challenging than expected, particularly for foreign businesses. While Norway offers high-quality living options, many landlords are sceptical of renting to foreign companies. Combined with high competition in cities like Oslo and Bergen, and the complexities of securing apartments with essential amenities, the process can quickly become overwhelming. This guide provides a step-by-step breakdown of everything you need to know about renting apartments for business purposes in Norway — from navigating rental prices to understanding key challenges like utilities, parking, and lease terms. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to secure the perfect living space for your team and avoid common pitfalls.

1. Understanding the Norwegian Rental Market

High Demand in Major Cities

Norway’s largest cities experience constant housing demand due to thriving industries like construction, IT, and energy. For foreign businesses, this process can feel even more competitive:

• Landlords often prioritize tenants with local references.

• High-quality apartments, especially with parking, are rented out quickly.

Average Rental Prices for 2-Bedroom Apartments

Rental prices reflect the strong demand and high living standards in Norway. For fully furnished 2-bedroom apartments:

Oslo: For a centrally located apartment, expect to pay between 20,000–30,000 NOK/month (approximately €1,750–€2,600/month). Apartments with parking are extremely limited, particularly in neighborhoods like Frogner and Majorstuen. Bergen: In business districts, rents for 2-bedroom apartments range from 18,000–25,000 NOK/month (approximately €1,575–€2,150/month). Central parking spaces are scarce. Stavanger: As a hub for oil and energy, 2-bedroom apartments cost around 17,000–24,000 NOK/month (approximately €1,490–€2,060/month). Trondheim: With growing tech and industrial sectors, rents for 2-bedroom apartments range from 16,000–22,000 NOK/month (approximately €1,400–€1,890/month). In smaller towns, prices may be slightly lower, but competition remains high during major projects.

2. Key Factors to Consider When Choosing an Apartment

Location

Choosing the right location balances convenience and cost:

• Proximity to Work: Short commutes mean more productive time for your team.Access to Public Transport: Reliable transport hubs near apartments are critical.

• Neighborhood Quality: Prioritize central, secure neighborhoods like Frogner in Oslo or Fana in Bergen.

Essential Amenities

While many apartments are fully furnished, key amenities can still be challenging to secure:

High-Speed Internet: Essential for remote work and communication. Parking: Limited availability in larger cities like Oslo and Bergen. Spaces are rare and often come at an extra cost. Utilities: Due to the electricity crisis in Norway, landlords rarely include electricity costs in the rent. This is particularly critical in winter when energy prices can spike dramatically. At its peak, electricity can cost 13.5 NOK per kilowatt-hour (approximately €1.20 per kilowatt-hour). For a standard 2-bedroom apartment, this can result in significant additional monthly expenses.

3. The Challenges of Renting in Norway

Renting as a foreign business tenant involves unique obstacles:

Landlord Scepticism

Many landlords are reluctant to rent to foreign companies due to concerns over reliability, payment delays, or unfamiliarity with the tenant. Local references are rarely available, creating additional hurdles.

Limited Supply of Quality Apartments

Central apartments with modern amenities are often rented within days. Parking is extremely limited and can significantly increase costs.

High Utility Costs

The electricity crisis in Norway has made utility expenses unpredictable. Prices can peak at 13.5 NOK (€1.20) per kilowatt-hour, particularly during winter. Landlords often exclude electricity from rental agreements to avoid responsibility for fluctuating costs. Solution: Partner with an experienced housing provider like HomeShare to ensure transparency, minimize delays, and access properties that meet your needs.

4. The Rental Process: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Outline Your Requirements

Clearly define your company’s needs: location, parking, amenities, lease flexibility, and budget.

Step 2: Schedule Viewings

Act quickly — desirable apartments in Norway’s major cities rent out within days.

Step 3: Negotiate Lease Terms

Clarify key points like: Lease duration and policies for early termination, Utilities (electricity, heating, water) and Rent inclusions like Wi-Fi and cleaning.

Step 4: Finalize the Lease

Ensure all agreed-upon terms are reflected in the lease. Request an English version if necessary.

5. Legal Rights and Obligations for Tenants

Your Rights

Fair Rent: Rent must align with market rates. Privacy: Landlords must provide proper notice before entering the property. Maintenance: Landlords handle significant repairs and ensure a habitable environment.

Your Obligations

Pay rent on time, manage electricity and heating costs unless otherwise specified and notify landlords of maintenance issues promptly.

6. Why Corporate Housing Providers Simplify the Process

Given the complexities of Norway’s rental market, partnering with a corporate housing provider simplifies the experience and saves valuable time.

Benefits of Corporate Housing:

Move-In Ready Apartments: Fully furnished, modern apartments with all essential amenities. Lease Management: Expert negotiation of lease terms and handling of landlord communication. Time and Cost Savings: Providers handle viewings, paperwork, and logistics.

7. Checklist Summary: What to Look for in a Business Apartment

1. Location: Central, with good transport links and amenities

2. Furnished Apartments: Fully equipped for immediate move-in

3. Utilities: Clarify costs for electricity, heating, and water

4. Parking: Confirm availability and any extra fees

5. Lease Terms: Flexible durations to match your project timelines

Conclusion

Finding the right corporate apartment in Norway can be challenging, particularly for foreign businesses facing sceptical landlords, high competition, and rising energy costs. By understanding these challenges and prioritizing location, amenities, and lease terms, you can secure the ideal living space for your team.

Why Choose Homeshare for Your Corporate Housing Needs?

At Homeshare, we simplify corporate housing for businesses working on short- or long-term projects in Norway.

Our Expertise:

• Tailored Solutions: Fully furnished apartments in prime locations across Oslo, Bergen, Stavanger, and Trondheim.

• Bulk and Custom Requests: Whether you need one apartment or multiple units for a large team, we handle it all.

• Time and Cost Savings: We manage viewings, negotiations, and landlord communication, ensuring a stress-free experience.

• Deep Market Knowledge: With years of experience in Norway’s rental market, we secure the best options to meet your business needs.

Get in touch

Save time, minimize hassle, and secure the perfect corporate apartments in Norway with ease. Visit our business page to learn more about our tailored housing solutions, or send us an inquiry today to let us handle your business accommodation needs, and we’ll provide you with a customized offer within 24 hours!

Why Businesses Should Outsource Accommodation Management

Managing employee accommodations can be a daunting task for businesses, especially those operating across multiple locations or managing large-scale projects. From finding suitable housing to handling logistics and payments, the process can quickly become time-consuming and costly. This is why many companies are turning to outsourcing as a strategic solution.Outsourcing accommodation management allows businesses to delegate the complexities of housing logistics to experienced providers, freeing up resources to focus on core operations. Let’s explore the key reasons why outsourcing accommodation is a smart move for businesses.

1. Save Time and Boost Efficiency

Finding, booking, and managing accommodations for employees can take up significant time, especially for businesses with frequent travel or relocation needs. By outsourcing this responsibility, companies can reclaim valuable hours for their teams. Here's How It Helps:

Providers handle all aspects of accommodation logistics, from sourcing properties to managing bookings.

• Centralized invoicing eliminates the hassle of tracking multiple payments.

• Employees receive clear, organized travel and housing details without requiring internal coordination.

For example, outsourcing can save businesses an average of 16.5 hours per week—time that can be allocated to strategic projects instead of administrative tasks.

2. Cost Savings Through Expertise

Outsourcing accommodation management often results in significant cost savings. Providers leverage their industry expertise and networks to secure better deals than most companies could achieve independently. Here’s some Key Advantages:

Access to discounted rates through bulk bookings or long-term relationships with property owners.

• Avoiding the expense of hiring dedicated in-house travel or accommodation managers.

• Transparent tracking of housing expenses for better budget control.

By outsourcing, businesses can reduce operational costs while ensuring high-quality accommodations for their employees.

3. Scalability and Flexibility

Business needs are rarely static—projects expand, timelines shift, and employee numbers fluctuate. Outsourcing accommodation provides the flexibility to adapt housing solutions as requirements change.Why It Works:

Business needs are rarely static—projects expand, timelines shift, and employee numbers fluctuate. Outsourcing accommodation provides the flexibility to adapt housing solutions as requirements change.Why It Works:

Easily scale up or down based on project demands.

• Flexible lease terms allow adjustments without penalties.

• Accommodations tailored to specific durations or team sizes.

This scalability ensures that businesses only pay for what they need, avoiding unnecessary expenses during slower periods or overburdening resources during peak times.

4. Access to Specialized Expertise

Accommodation providers bring specialized knowledge and experience that in-house teams may lack. They understand local markets, regulations, and best practices, ensuring smooth operations even in complex scenarios.Benefits Include:

Expertise in navigating local housing markets and legal requirements.

• Tailored solutions for industries with unique needs (e.g., construction or renewable energy).

• Proactive problem-solving for issues like last-minute changes or cancellations.

This expertise not only improves efficiency but also enhances the employee experience by providing seamless housing solutions.

5. Improved Employee Satisfaction

Relocating or traveling for work can be stressful for employees. By outsourcing accommodations, businesses ensure a smoother experience that prioritizes employee well-being.Why It Matters:

High-quality, fully furnished accommodations create a home-away-from-home atmosphere.

• Professional management reduces stress related to housing logistics.

• Employees can focus on their work instead of worrying about where they’ll stay.

Happy employees are more productive and engaged—an outcome that benefits both the individual and the company.

6. Centralized Communication and Reporting

Managing accommodations across multiple locations often leads to fragmented communication and disorganized data. Outsourcing solves this issue by centralizing all housing-related processes under one provider.What You Gain:

A single point of contact for all accommodation needs.

• Consolidated reporting on housing expenses and usage.

• Streamlined communication with employees regarding their housing arrangements.

This centralized approach simplifies management while providing valuable insights into company spending on accommodations.

Conclusion: Focus on What Matters Most

Outsourcing accommodation management is more than just a convenience—it’s a strategic decision that saves time, reduces costs, and improves employee satisfaction. By partnering with experienced providers, businesses can streamline operations while ensuring their teams have comfortable, reliable housing tailored to their needs.If your business is ready to optimize its accommodation process, consider outsourcing as the next step toward efficiency and growth. Let experts handle the logistics so you can focus on what truly matters—your core business objectives.

Understanding Why Corporate Housing Always Matters

Finding suitable employee housing can be a challenge for businesses managing large projects or relocating staff. Traditional housing options often lack flexibility and don’t meet the unique needs of corporate teams. Corporate housing offers a tailored solution that ensures comfort, convenience, and cost-effectiveness.

At Home Share, we specialize in providing high-quality, fully furnished corporate accommodations across Norway. Whether you're running a project in Oslo, Bergen, or Trondheim, we help you find the perfect solution. Let’s explore the top reasons why corporate housing is the best choice for businesses.

1. Cost-Effective for Long-Term Projects

One of the biggest advantages of corporate housing is cost savings. Traditional hotels are often too expensive for long-term stays, while renting unfurnished apartments involves extra costs for furniture and utilities.

Corporate housing is a budget-friendly alternative because it includes everything:

• Fully furnished bedrooms, living rooms, and kitchens.

• Utilities like WiFi, electricity, and water.

• Flexible payment terms that suit your project timelines.

Example:
Imagine a construction company running a six-month project in Trondheim. Instead of spending excessively on hotel rooms, corporate housing provides employees with a comfortable and affordable place to stay.

2. Fully Furnished Accommodations with All Amenities

Corporate housing is designed to feel like home. Every unit comes fully equipped, making it easy for employees to settle in immediately without worrying about logistics.

What’s included?

• Bedrooms with high-quality bedding.

• Kitchens with cooking utensils, cutlery, and appliances.

• Living rooms with comfortable furniture, TVs, and entertainment options.

• WiFi and Parking for uninterrupted work and convenience.

This level of preparation ensures that employees can focus on their work instead of dealing with housing issues.

3. Flexible Lease Terms to Fit Your Business Needs

Unlike traditional leases, corporate housing offers the flexibility businesses need. At Home Share, we understand that project timelines can change, so we provide adaptable solutions.

Key benefits include:

• No long-term commitments.

• The ability to extend or shorten leases as needed.

• No deposit requirements in many cases, reducing upfront costs.

Flexibility allows businesses to manage housing efficiently, even when plans shift unexpectedly.

4. Strategic Locations Across Norway

Corporate housing providers like Home Share offer accommodations in key cities and regions, ensuring employees are close to work sites or business centers.

We cover cities such as:

Oslo: Perfect for corporate teams working in the capital.

Bergen: Convenient housing options for industries like oil and gas.

Trondheim: Ideal for long-term projects in construction or IT.

Strategically located housing reduces commute times and improves employee satisfaction, contributing to better performance on the job.

5. Enhanced Comfort and Productivity for Employees

Comfortable housing has a direct impact on employee productivity and well-being. Employees staying in poorly managed accommodations or hotels may struggle with fatigue, poor internet, or lack of privacy. Corporate housing eliminates these concerns.

Why it works:

• Private, quiet spaces to rest after work.

• High-speed internet for remote work or communication.

• A home-like atmosphere that promotes mental well-being.

Happy, well-rested employees are more productive, and that’s a win for any business.

Bonus: Why Choose Home Share for Corporate Housing?

At Home Share, we take pride in offering tailored housing solutions for businesses across Norway. Here’s what sets us apart:

• Extensive Network: Hundreds of rental options to match your needs.

• Professional Service: We negotiate the best deals and handle all the logistics.

• Personalized Support: Our team works closely with you to ensure a seamless experience.

Whether you need housing for a short-term project or a long-term assignment, we’re here to help.

Conclusion: Make the Right Choice for Your Employees

Corporate housing isn’t just a practical solution; it’s an investment in your employees’ well-being and your company’s success. By choosing Home Share, you’re ensuring that your team has the comfort and convenience they deserve, allowing them to focus fully on their work.

If your business is looking for flexible, fully furnished accommodations in Norway, contact us today to learn more about our services. Let us handle the housing, so you can focus on what matters most—your business.

Ready to find the perfect corporate housing solution? Fill out our simple contact form here, and one of our team members will get back to you within 24 hours to discuss your needs. Let Home Share take care of your employee accommodations!