First rental home with Joo Kodit – Linnea's story
Moving out from your parents' house to live on own is one of the most exciting milestones in life. It brings freedom, but also a whole new kind of responsibility: the fridge fills up with groceries you’ve bought yourself, the apartment doesn’t clean itself, and it’s time to take responsibility for your own finances.
For many, it comes as a surprise just how big of a change moving out really is. While having your own home offers the freedom to decorate, live, and invite friends over on your own terms, it also teaches independence and personal responsibility.
We interviewed our resident Linnea from Oulu, who moved into her first rental apartment at just 17 years old. What did moving out on her own feel like – and what advice does she have for those moving into their first rental home?
Linnea’s favourite spot in her apartment is the sofa. There’s plenty of room for several friends to watch a movie together.
Home sweet home
Linnea, 19, moved out on her own in Oulu at a young age and has felt at home in her first apartment ever since. The idea of moving out had been on her mind for a long time.
-I wanted my own rhythm and peace. At home, everyday life mostly revolved around other people’s schedules, and I longed for a life that revolves around my own plans, Linnea recalls.
Linnea chose to rent an apartment from Joo Kodit because their rental apartments were clean and modern, and the company seemed reliable. Not having to pay a deposit when moving into a Joo Kodit apartment brought financial peace of mind during the move. The apartment’s location, natural light, and functional floor plan sealed the deal.
Now that she’s grown used to living in a central location, Linnea feels it would be hard to find a better place in Oulu.
Living alone felt scary at first – but turned out to be a positive surprise
Even though moving out felt like the right step, it was naturally also nerve-racking.
-At first, I was really scared of being alone. Before moving out, I didn’t like being home alone at all. That was probably my biggest fear about moving out, Linnea reflects.
The fear faded quickly as friends began gathering at Linnea’s apartment, and her new home soon became their shared meeting place. It’s important to Linnea that her friends feel comfortable in her home.
And what surprised her the most? That she actually began to enjoy being alone. Quiet moments no longer felt empty, but instead gave space for thoughts and personal routines. Living alone taught her to appreciate her own time and created a sense of independence she hadn’t experienced before.
-Nowadays I love being completely alone at home sometimes – watching a series, eating something good, and doing absolutely nothing, Linnea says.
Linnea’s tips for moving into your first rental apartment
Read the lease carefully: Is there a minimum contract period? Do you need to pay a security deposit? Make sure you fully understand what you’re committing to before signing.
Calculate your expenses realistically: Consider how much money you’ll spend each month and whether your income covers it. It’s better to overestimate costs than to commit to an apartment that doesn’t fit your budget. In addition to rent, remember expenses like electricity, water, home insurance, food, phone bills, public transport, and hobbies.
Remember: freedom comes with responsibility: While having your own home brings freedom, it also means responsibility. Even when you’re tired, you’re the one responsible for cooking and cleaning. Ask yourself if you’re ready for it.
Ask for help when moving: Moving is easier with a good group of people – and carrying a bed is much simpler with more than one pair of hands!
Don’t rush decorating: You don’t need to buy everything right away, or brand new. You can find lovely second-hand furniture on platforms like Tori.fi and Facebook Marketplace. Letting your home take shape over time also saves money.
Why does Linnea recommend Joo Kodit?
Linnea says she recommends Joo apartments because with Joo Kodit everything has been smooth from the very beginning. She’s always received help quickly when needed, and communication has been clear and straightforward. A safe and reliable rental relationship has brought peace of mind to everyday life, making her home feel even more comfortable.
-I wouldn’t want to live anywhere else. If I move to another city to study, I’ll look for a Joo apartment there as well. The contract is very clear and transparent, and the whole process is easy. This is especially suitable for young people, because everything has been made as carefree as possible, Linnea says.
