A duplex apartment (or maisonette) is the perfect option if you don’t need that much space. Often located on the top floor of a house, this space is a sort of duplex type of apartment. If you want to buy a duplex apartment, then this is a great way to invest in real estate without having to purchase a full home.

You can locate a duplex apartment for sale quite easily through Internet searches. There are different details you can look for, like internal staircases, pitched roofs, and built in shelving. ImmoScout24 will help you find the right place to buy.

Buying a maisonette in Switzerland

Maisonette flats combine the spaciousness of a house with the flexibility of a flat. The two levels create a clear separation between living, working and retreating – ideal for families, couples who work from home or anyone who appreciates space and light. These types of floor plans are also attractive as investments because they are in demand in urban locations and neighbourhoods with good transport links.

At a glance: maisonettes

• Suitable for households that need separate rooms, privacy and space to work from home

• Feels like a house within a house, often with a gallery, high ceilings or rooftop terrace

• Please note: these properties have stairs, sometimes reduced accessibility and higher heating costs in larger open spaces

• Mostly available as flats to purchase – look into the rules governing the property (STWEG), special rights of use and the communal renovation fund

Market overview: maisonettes in Switzerland

The population of Switzerland has changed by 1.54% over the last three years, driving up demand for living space. There are 4'840'096 flats in the existing housing stock, but very large units are rare: over the last five years, 10'938 flats with at least six rooms have been built in Switzerland. Larger flats also have particularly low vacancy rates (0.84% for flats with more than five rooms), underscoring the appeal of spacious maisonette layouts, especially in sought-after urban centres.

What costs are involved in buying a maisonette?

The total price includes the purchase price and ancillary costs: notary and land registry fees, potentially a transfer tax (depending on the canton), and possibly interest on lease if the property is built on leased land. If you are buying an individual flat within a block of flats (STWEG), administrative fees, operating costs and contributions to the renovation fund are incurred on top of the purchase. Buyers will also need to plan for ongoing maintenance and renovations to improve the property’s energy efficiency. Financing is usually provided by a deposit and a mortgage; banks assess affordability based on income, interest rates and ancillary costs. Factors that impact taxes include the imputed rental value of the property, deduction of interest on debt, and – depending on the canton – property tax.

A step-by-step guide to deciding whether a maisonette is right for you

1. Define your requirements: number of rooms, outdoor space, lift, accessibility, noise and light conditions.

2. Set your budget and obtain confirmation of financing.

3. Review documentation: floor plan, lighting, energy rating, year of construction and quality of location.

4. Clarify legal issues: rules governing the property (STWEG), reports and records, special rights of use, building rights/leasehold and easements.

5. Technical due diligence: building services, roof/facade, upcoming investments, sound insulation.

6. Complete the purchase: reservation, draft contract, public certification and land registry entry.

Next steps

Start your search for a maisonette flat today. We have listings in cities and regions across Switzerland. Use precise search criteria, arrange viewings promptly and have your financing documents ready. Clarify any questions about rules, financial reserves and renovation plans early on – this will help you take an informed decision.