New mortgage rules from April 1, 2026 - what does it mean for you?

On April 1, 2026, new mortgage rules are expected to take effect in Sweden. The changes affect both you who are planning to buy a home and you who already own a home and are considering increasing your mortgage, for example, for a renovation.

Here are some of the most important changes and what they can mean for you as a buyer or seller.

Raised mortgage cap, lower down payment

One of the biggest changes is that the mortgage cap is being raised from 85 to 90 percent of the home's value. This means that the down payment requirement is reduced from 15 to 10 percent.

For many, this can make it easier to buy a home. For example, a home costing 3 million SEK would require a 300,000 SEK down payment instead of 450,000 SEK.

However, it is still the bank that performs the final credit check and determines how much you can borrow.

The stricter amortization requirement is removed

The so-called stricter amortization requirement disappears when the new rules come into force. Previously, households had to amortize an additional one percent if the mortgage exceeded 4.5 times their annual income.

The basic requirements for amortization remain, but for some households, the change may mean a slightly lower monthly cost.

Harder to increase existing mortgages

At the same time, the rules are being tightened for those who already own their home and want to increase their mortgage. From April 1, 2026, the total loan-to-value (LTV) ratio when increasing a loan may be a maximum of 80 percent of the home's value, compared to 85 percent today.

This can affect the ability to finance, for example, a renovation by increasing the mortgage.

Revaluation of the home less frequently

The new rules also mean that a home may normally only be revalued every five years, even if the purpose is to increase the mortgage.

What does this mean for you?

For those planning to buy a home, the new rules can mean that the down payment requirement decreases. At the same time, the changes can affect how much you can borrow and how the bank makes its assessment.

If you already own your home and are thinking about increasing your mortgage, it might be wise to review your options well in advance before the new rules come into force.