“People are looking for a wide range of summer homes, from older properties in need of renovation to new, move-in-ready cottages. The property's condition, location, and the emotional connection it creates all play an important role,” said Urmas Uibomäe, CEO of Kinnisvara24.
According to Anneli Lindemann, a certified real estate agent at Uus Maa, buyers' behaviour and expectations have changed significantly in recent years.
“Not long ago, summer homes were often purchased based largely on emotion, and buyers were willing to take on extensive renovation projects. Today’s buyers are much more informed and cautious. They carefully assess renovation needs, potential costs, and how quickly the property can realistically be put into use,” Lindemann explained.
It has become increasingly common for buyers to visit the same property multiple times. Even during the first viewing, they often ask for documentation, information about the building's structure and roof, electrical and heating systems, monthly maintenance costs, and any potential shortcomings. In many cases, buyers also involve construction specialists early on to carry out a pre-purchase inspection and help assess potential risks.
Buyers are looking for summer homes suitable for year-round living
According to Lindemann, the most sought-after properties are summer homes that appear well maintained and reliable, allowing owners to start enjoying weekends or summer holidays there immediately.
“People are increasingly looking for properties that can be used not only in summer but also in spring, autumn, and sometimes even year-round. Homes with functioning heating, water supply, and internet connectivity tend to find buyers much faster,” she added.
Well-maintained or tastefully renovated older summer homes are also in demand. Buyers particularly value private, nature-oriented locations that offer amenities such as a sauna, a terrace, and convenient access. Many prospective buyers mention that they are looking for the authentic feeling of a traditional summer house, complete with a sunny yard, a beautiful apple orchard, and peace and quiet.
Interest in completely new and modern summer homes also exists, although the target audience is smaller, Lindemann noted.
“Their price level is higher, and buyers tend to compare them directly with permanent residential homes,” she said.
According to Uibomäe, inquiries are made about both fully renovated summer homes and properties in average condition or requiring repairs.
“On average, summer home listings range from €39,000 to €100,000,” he added.
Interest in summer homes is fairly evenly distributed across Estonia, but the most popular locations remain traditional holiday destinations such as Pärnu, Haapsalu, Võsu, and Kaberneeme. Near Tallinn, Laulasmaa and Kloogaranna are particularly popular, while in Southern Estonia, areas such as Setomaa and other scenic regions attract significant interest.
“Personal background also plays an important role in buyers’ preferences. People often favour locations to which they have a personal or family connection. The emotions created by the cottage, its surroundings, and the overall atmosphere undoubtedly influence purchasing decisions,” Uibomäe added.
Renovation should begin with the property's technical condition
According to the Uus Maa real estate agent, owners of renovation projects often start in the wrong place.
For example, they may invest in a beautiful new kitchen or interior finishes before assessing the property's structural condition.
“The first priority should be evaluating the roof, foundation, insulation, potential moisture issues, and electrical system. If the house is dry and structurally sound, everything else can be upgraded gradually,” Lindemann explained.
She emphasized that a modern heating solution is particularly important and that interior design and furnishing should only be considered after technical issues have been resolved.
For buyers financing a summer home with a loan, Lindemann recommends carefully evaluating renovation needs before purchase and incorporating planned works into the loan application or overall budget whenever possible. For smaller projects, a home improvement loan may also be a suitable solution.
According to Evelin Rahkema, Head of Lending at Inbank, buyers often focus primarily on the purchase price, while the true total cost only becomes apparent after the acquisition.
“A realistic renovation budget helps avoid situations where the summer home is purchased but cannot be fully enjoyed due to a lack of funds for necessary improvements. With older properties, it is especially important to leave room in the budget for unexpected expenses that may emerge during renovation work,” Rahkema said.
According to Inbank data, the average home improvement loan amount is approximately €13,000, demonstrating that home upgrades often involve substantial investments rather than just a few minor purchases.
She noted that a home improvement loan can be used both for purchasing real estate and for covering expenses related to property improvements, including building materials, renovation work, heating systems, and furnishings.
“It is important that financing decisions are considered just as carefully as the property purchase itself. Before taking out a loan, households should assess whether the monthly repayments fit comfortably within their budget, even when additional summer home maintenance costs are taken into account. A summer home should provide enjoyment and relaxation, not become an unexpected financial burden,” she added.
