How to Master the Flatshare Interview in Estonia

That first wave of excitement has hit you. The job offer is signed, the visa is sorted, and you’re ready to start your new life in the beautiful, digitally-savvy nation of Estonia. You can almost taste the black bread and feel the crisp air of a Tallinn morning. But between you and that idyllic picture stands one of the first, and biggest, hurdles for any new expat: finding a place to call home.

If you’re not renting a whole apartment, you’ll likely be diving into the world of flatshares. And in Estonia, this often means facing the "flatshare interview." It’s not just a quick tour; it’s a two-way conversation to see if you’re the right fit for the home, and just as importantly, if the home is the right fit for you. It can feel like a job interview and a first date rolled into one.

Don't sweat it. As someone who's been through the process, I'm here to guide you through mastering that meeting, understanding the local nuances, and landing a great room with flatmates you’ll actually enjoy living with.

Understanding the Estonian Rental Market in 2025

First, let’s get the lay of the land. The rental market, especially in hotspots like Tallinn and Tartu, is dynamic and competitive. The influx of international talent and students keeps demand high, particularly at the start of the academic year (August/September) and in the spring.

• Tallinn: The capital is where most of the action is. You'll find everything from modern rooms in sleek Ülemiste or Kalamaja apartments to more budget-friendly options in Soviet-era buildings in Mustamäe or Lasnamäe. The latter often offer more space for your money but might lack some modern amenities.
• Tartu: As Estonia’s university town, Tartu has a vibrant, youthful rental scene. The market is heavily influenced by the student population, so competition can be fierce. Prices are generally lower than in Tallinn.

Where do you even look? While you'll see listings on major real estate portals like KV.ee and City24.ee, these are predominantly for entire apartments. For single rooms and flatshares, your best bet is Facebook. Join groups like:

• "Korterid üürimiseks Tallinnas (ilma maaklerita)" - Apartments for rent in Tallinn (without a broker)
• "Üürikorterid Tallinnas"
• "Expats in Tallinn/Estonia"
• Specific university or international community groups.

Listings here are often posted directly by the current tenants looking for a new flatmate, which gives you a more direct and personal connection from the start.

Here’s a rough idea of what you can expect to pay for a private room in a shared flat as of early 2025. Keep in mind that utilities (kommunaal) are almost always extra.

Note: These are estimates. Prices can fluctuate based on the season, building quality, and included amenities.

Before the Interview: Your Preparation Checklist

Walking into an interview unprepared is a recipe for failure. The same goes for finding a flatshare. Doing your homework shows you’re serious, responsible, and respectful of their time.

1. Craft Your "Looking for a Room" Profile

When you respond to an ad, don’t just say, "Hi, is the room available?" This will get you ignored. Treat your initial message like a cover letter. Briefly introduce yourself:

• Who you are: "I'm a 28-year-old software developer from Brazil, moving to Tallinn for a new job at..."
• Your lifestyle: "I'm a fairly quiet and clean person. During the week, I'm focused on work, but I enjoy hiking on weekends and occasionally cooking a big meal. I'm not a big partier."
• Why you're interested: "Your flat looks lovely, and the location in Kalamaja would be perfect for me. I also saw you have a cat, and I'm a big animal lover!"
• Logistics: Mention your move-in date and how long you plan to stay.

This paints a picture and helps them see you as a person, not just another applicant.

2. Get Your Documents in Order

Having your paperwork ready shows you’re organized and financially stable. Prepare a digital folder with:

• Proof of Identity: A scan of your passport or EU ID card.
• Proof of Right to Reside: Your Estonian ID card with your Isikukood (personal identification code) or a copy of your visa/residence permit. The Isikukood is crucial for almost everything in Estonia, including signing a rental contract digitally.
• Proof of Income: A copy of your employment contract or a letter from your employer. If you’re a student, an acceptance letter from your university and proof of funds will work.
• References (Optional but helpful): A letter from a previous landlord can be a huge bonus.

3. Prepare Your Questions for Them

This is a two-way street! You are interviewing them as much as they are interviewing you. Asking smart questions shows you’re a discerning tenant and helps you avoid a nightmare living situation.

Essential Questions to Ask:

• The Costs:
  • "What have the average monthly utility costs (kommunaal) been over the last year? What does that include (heating, water, electricity, building maintenance)?"
  • "Is internet included, or is that separate? What's the speed like?"
  • "What is the security deposit (tagatisraha) and which month's rent is paid in advance?" (The standard is one month's rent as a deposit, plus the first month's rent upfront).
• The People:
  • "Could you tell me a bit about the other flatmates? What do they do, and what's the general vibe of the house?"
  • "What is the daily routine like here? Are people early birds or night owls?"
  • "How often do you have guests over? What’s the policy on overnight guests?"
• The Rules & Lifestyle:
  • "Is there a cleaning schedule, or is it more of a 'clean up after yourself' approach?"
  • "What are the house rules regarding noise, common areas, and shared items?"
  • "Are there any other expectations for someone moving in?"

During the Interview: Making a Great Impression

You’ve landed the viewing. Now it’s time to shine.

First Impressions & Cultural Nuances

Estonians, in a professional or initial meeting, tend to be more reserved and direct than people from more effusive cultures. Don't mistake this for unfriendliness.

• Be on Time: Punctuality is highly valued. If you’re running late, send a message.
• The Greeting: A firm handshake and direct eye contact are standard. A simple "Tere" (hello) will be appreciated.
• Be Calm and Authentic: Don't be overly bubbly or try to be their best friend in the first five minutes. Be yourself, but be polite, calm, and respectful. They are assessing if you are a stable, reliable person to live with.
• Dress Smart-Casually: You don’t need a suit, but don't show up in your gym clothes. Look presentable.

Common Questions They'll Ask You

Be ready to answer questions about your lifestyle. They want to ensure you'll fit in. Honesty is the best policy.

• "Tell us a bit about yourself." (Have your short, friendly bio ready, similar to your intro message).
• "What's your daily schedule like?" (They want to know if your 6 AM smoothie-making will wake them up, or if your late-night gaming will keep them awake).
• "Are you a clean and tidy person?" (The only correct answer is "yes." You can elaborate: "I always clean up after myself in the kitchen and believe in keeping common areas pleasant for everyone.").
• "Do you work from home?" (This is a big one in 2025. It impacts utility usage and daytime noise).
• "Do you smoke or have pets?" (Be honest. Hiding a pet is grounds for eviction).
• "How do you spend your weekends? Do you host parties?" (They are gauging if you’re a quiet homebody or a social butterfly who will have people over all the time).

The Nitty-Gritty: Contracts and Legalities

This is the most important part. Do not let cultural politeness or eagerness to secure a room stop you from being thorough here.

The Rental Agreement (Üürileping)

Rule #1: Never, ever rent a room without a written rental agreement. A verbal agreement offers you zero protection. The contract should be in a language you fully understand, or you should have a trusted Estonian-speaking friend review it.

Key things to check for in your üürileping:

• Names and ID Codes: Your name, the landlord's name, and all other tenants' names and Isikukoodid.
• The Object: The exact address and which room(s) you have exclusive use of.
• Rent and Deposit: The exact amount of rent, the due date, the bank details for payment, and the amount of the security deposit.
• Contract Duration: Is it a fixed-term or indefinite lease? This affects how and when you can give notice.
• Notice Period: The legal minimum notice period for an indefinite lease in Estonia is three months, but this can be negotiated.
• Utility Payments: How utilities are calculated and paid.

Many contracts in Estonia are signed digitally using an ID card or Smart-ID, which is a secure and legally binding method.

Registering Your Address

Once you sign your lease, you are legally required to register your address of residence at the local government office (e.g., Tallinn City Office). This is vital for accessing many services as an expat. You will need your signed rental contract to do this.

After the Interview: The Follow-Up

The meeting went well, you love the place, and the flatmates seem great. What's next?

A short follow-up message within a few hours is a nice touch. Something simple like:

"Hi [Name], it was great to meet you and see the apartment today. I really liked the place and think I'd be a great fit. Please let me know what the next steps are. Thanks again, [Your Name]."

This shows you're still interested and keeps you top-of-mind. They will usually let you know their decision within a few days. If you get the offer, fantastic! If not, don't take it personally. The rental market is competitive, and sometimes it just comes down to finding the perfect personality fit.

Your Takeaway

Mastering the flatshare interview in Estonia is less about a perfect performance and more about demonstrating that you are a responsible, respectful, and reliable human being. Be prepared, be authentic, and remember to ask the right questions to protect yourself.

Finding a home is a crucial step in your expat journey, and the right flatshare can provide you with your first friends and support system in a new country. Take your time, trust your gut, and soon enough, you’ll have the keys to your new Estonian home. Welcome to Estonia