This thesis explores the role of owner-occupied apartments (ägarlägenheter) in the Swedish private rental market, particularly in light of the government’s legislative proposal SOU 2024:83 “More Paths to Owning Your Home”. The proposal aims to simplify and promote the formation of owner-occupied apartments by enabling conversions of existing rental units and removing the requirement for a minimum of three units. If implemented, these changes could significantly alter the structure of the Swedish housing market, especially concerning private rental practices.

The study employs a legal-analytical methodology to examine Swedish property law, tenancy regulations, and relevant legal doctrine. A key focus is the comparison between condominiums and owner-occupied apartments, particularly in terms of legal requirements for private rental. Unlike condominium owners, owner-occupiers do not need approval from a housing association to rent out their private home, granting them greater autonomy but also raising concerns about social control and residential security.

The study highlights that a broader implementation of owner-occupied apartments may increase short-term renting via platforms such as Airbnb. Prior research suggests that this could contribute to gentrification, rising property prices, and a reduction in long-term rental housing, particularly in central urban areas. At the same time, the model may improve housing market flexibility and promote mobility, especially in growing cities.

The thesis concludes that the proposed reform may have wide-ranging effects on housing availability, urban development, and market dynamics. Therefore, a careful balance must be struck between ownership freedom and the social, legal, and economic risks associated with increased commercialization of housing. Future regulation should consider safety, transparency, and housing policy goals in order to support a sustainable and inclusive housing market.