“I couldn’t believe it was real” – Ella won 10,000 € in rent credit in Leona Homes’ giveaway
In May, Leona Homes celebrated its launch by giving away an incredible prize – 10,000 € in rent credit – to one lucky winner. Fortune smiled upon Ella, who happened to be at a crossroads in life when everything felt wide open. That twist of fate led her to a place that instantly felt right – a peaceful home that soon became much more than just an apartment.
A surprise that changed everything
When Ella received the news of her win, she could hardly believe her eyes.
“I honestly couldn’t believe it and was sure at first it had to be a scam! But once I got on the phone with Leona, I started to realize this was actually real – and it felt unbelievable. I was at a point in my life where I didn’t really know what direction to take, and my rental contract was about to end. So this came at the perfect time. It felt like fate. I’m beyond grateful!”
Sharing the news with family and friends became its own exciting moment.
“I was gasping for air thinking, is this even possible?! 😅 My grandma and parents were convinced I’d fallen for some scam. Once everyone realized it was true, they were just amazed! At first, I didn’t even want to tell all my friends – it felt like, why me, of all people? But of course, I couldn’t keep it to myself for long!”
Finding the right home
After her win, Ella began searching for a new home through Leona Homes. The process was smooth, and with the help of an agent, several options were found.
“I told them what I was hoping for in a home and neighborhood, and the agent suggested several apartments based on that. Everything went quickly and easily and it was great getting to know new areas.”
When she saw the third apartment, she immediately knew it was the one.
“I fell in love with the view – you can see trees and water from the window. The layout felt just right, and an enclosed balcony, dishwasher, and walk-in closet were such a bonus!”
Ella’s new home was in Aurinkolahti, Helsinki – an area completely new to her.
“Even though it was unfamiliar, I instantly felt I could settle here. At first, I wondered if Vuosaari was too far, but now that I live here, it feels perfect. The metro connection is so convenient that the distance doesn’t matter at all.”
A home filled with colors and stories
Ella’s home bursts with color, joy, and character. It’s decorated almost entirely with second-hand finds, inherited pieces, and borrowed treasures.
“My home has a lot of color and playfulness. Orange and pink are my favorites and funnily enough, they’re Leona’s brand colors too! 😄”
The enclosed balcony and slow mornings have become the heart of her home.
“I love sitting on the balcony and enjoying my morning coffee surrounded by nature. Having my own bedroom after years of living in studios feels like pure luxury.”
The new neighborhood has also made an impression.
“The closeness to nature, the sea, and the calm atmosphere – that’s what makes this area special. I’d never spent time in Eastern Helsinki before, but now I’m constantly telling my friends how great it is here, especially Aurinkolahti!”
A home that brought peace
Winning 10,000 € in rent credit has changed Ella’s life in many ways.
“I’ve found a new area, more calmness, and a slower pace to my life. And of course, I’m able to save more. I honestly don’t know where I’d be now if this hadn’t happened, life was so uncertain back then. This came at exactly the right time.”
Ella says she doesn’t want to fill her home with things, though she laughs that she’ll never be a true minimalist.
“I’ve let go of a lot over the past year, and it feels freeing to own less. This spring I’m planning to fill my balcony with flowers and maybe plant something edible.”
What does feeling naturally at home mean?
Finally, Ella sums up what Leona’s motto, “luontevasti kotona” (feeling naturally at home), means to her.
“It means that your home feels like a safe place where you can be completely yourself. A place where loved ones are always welcome and can feel at home too.”
Would you like to see what Ella’s home looks like or hear more stories from Leona Homes’ residents? Follow us on Instagram @leonakodit.fi and see what feeling naturally at home truly looks like.
