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Housing is extremely expensive in Norway, and prices are continuing to rise, with an average increase of 10% between 2005 and 2006. Oslo and the other main cities have the highest housing costs, while the rural areas offer more inexpensive accommodation, built to a good standard.

Although prices are high, Norwegian houses are generally built to a very high standard of construction and are well-insulated and heated. A high percentage of the Norwegian live in detached houses, and it can be quite difficult to find simple, inexpensive housing.

Details of properties for sale can be obtained from estate agents, local and regional newspapers and property websites. Some house-hunters also advertise their requirements in the newspaper themselves. Housing loans are available from Norwegian banks.

Estate agents normally charge a percentage of the purchase price as their fee. If an agent is not used when buying a house, the buyer is required to ask an authorised valuer to assess the value of the property. It will be important to check the land registry to ensure that there are no encumbrances on the property you wish to buy, and legal assistance should also be sought to help draw up the sales contract, if an estate agent is not used.

The Norwegian Association of Real Estate Agents has published a booklet in English which provides useful information on the house-buying process.

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