Insights > Deals

Unity Living purchases two buildings in Helsinki

11 May 2026 | Asset Acquisition | Finland | 229 units | Operational

Ylva, the company owned by the Student Union of the University of Helsinki (HYY), has agreed to sell the C and D buildings of Domus Academica in Helsinki to Unity Living, which is owned by Brookfield and MESH Student. 

Key details

Asset type

Operational

Location

Helsinki, Finland

Capacity

229 units

Buyer

Unite Living

Seller

Ylva (HYY)

Value

undisclosed

Source: Ylva

The transaction includes a mixed-use residential asset comprising 229 rental apartments alongside complementary retail, office and food & beverage space. Existing lease agreements will remain unaffected by the sale.

Originally completed in 1952 and 1968, the Domus Academica C and D buildings have historically served a range of student-oriented functions beyond accommodation, including academic facilities, library space and a hostel.

Strategic context

The latest transaction marks the completion of HYY’s broader real estate debt restructuring programme.

The original Domus Academica scheme comprises four buildings, with Buildings A and B previously acquired by the Foundation for Student Housing in the Helsinki Region (Hoas) and retained for student accommodation use.

Newsec acted as advisor to Ylva on the disposal, while Fokus Nordic advised Unity Living on the acquisition.

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