In Estonia, there's a notable rise in the number of individuals opting to purchase homes without co-borrowers, indicating a shift in societal norms surrounding home ownership. According to data from Coop Pank, the percentage of home loan applicants who apply for mortgages as individuals has increased significantly. In 2020, only 38% of home loan applicants applied together with a partner, but projections suggest that by 2025, this figure will drop to 28%. This trend signifies changing attitudes towards financial independence among Estonians, with more individuals recognizing their ability to secure mortgages independently.

The motivation behind this shift comes from several factors including increased income levels, better financial literacy, and growing regional differences in the real estate market. Coop Pank’s lending business line manager, Karin Ossipova, emphasizes that for many Estonians, individual homeownership offers greater security and decision-making freedom. This emerging trend reflects not just a personal choice but also broader economic conditions, suggesting a developing sense of confidence among individuals in managing their finances alone, without the traditional need for partnerships in property ownership.

Furthermore, as stable incomes become more common, more people are realizing that they do not need to involve another party to secure a home. Increasingly, there is a preference to keep finances separate and take full responsibility for their investments. This trend has implications for the housing market, influencing both the type of properties that are in demand and the overall economic landscape in Estonia, as more individuals pursue homeownership independently rather than in couples.