In recent weeks, the debate around the property transfer tax has intensified in Finland, with various political leaders suggesting its temporary abolishment or targeted removal for first-time home buyers. The transfer tax is applicable to every home buyer during the sale, amounting to 1.5% for apartment purchases and 3% for single-family homes. Prominent figures, including the leaders of the Social Democratic Party, Centre Party, and others, have proposed these changes as a possible relief for new homeowners amidst growing housing concerns.

The issue gained additional traction when Otto Andersson, the chairman of the parliamentary group for the Swedish People's Party, expressed support for the temporary removal of this tax, following earlier discussions initiated by other politicians. However, Labour Minister Marttinen has expressed serious concerns regarding these proposals, particularly coming from parties within the government coalition. He believes that removing or reducing this tax could have negative implications that outweigh any benefits, underscoring the contentious nature of the ongoing debate about housing affordability and fiscal policies in Finland.

Marttinen's stance highlights the complexities of managing public sentiment while fulfilling the government's economic strategy. As housing costs remain a critical issue for many Finns, balancing the needs for homeowners and maintaining necessary tax revenue will continue to be a significant challenge for the Finnish government in the foreseeable future.