If you are planning on opening your own business or you need to move locations, then you can buy commercial real estate. That means you can enjoy the pure profit of owning your own space instead of leasing. Commercial real estate for sale can be found throughout Switzerland and all that you need to do

is consider what you are looking for. Then, you can search for store fronts, factories, industrial buildings, production halls, or workshops. Finding the right commercial real estate is easy with ImmoScout24, which will allow you to search listings from brokers as well as private sellers.

Buying business premises in Switzerland

Buying business premises in Switzerland offers a wide range of options – from compact properties to larger mixed-use properties, from offices and medical practices to retail outlets. Whether for your own use or as an investment, you will be able to find a property that suits you and your goals. For private buyers, owning your own premises opens up more opportunities for your business; investors benefit from rental income and stability.

Business premises at a glance

• Suitable for own use (small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), practices, studios) and as an investment

• Income from commercial leases; rent is often index-linked

• Location, modernisation and energy efficiency can increase value

• Risks: vacancy, dependence on economic trends, higher maintenance

Market overview for business premises in Switzerland

The Swiss unemployment rate is 1.47%, which bolsters demand for office and retail space. At the same time, the population has changed to 9’051’029 (+3.57%) in three years, favouring central locations with good public transport links. Prices and expected returns are high in prime locations; more remote locations offer a less expensive point of entry into the market, but with an increased risk of vacancy.

Business premises: costs and financing

The total price depends on the location, the total area of the property that can be let, the condition of the property, the year of construction and the quality of the tenancy agreements (terms, notice periods, index-linking). In addition, buyers will incur notary and land registry fees; a transfer tax is also payable in some cantons, and if the sale is opted for value-added tax (VAT), this will be due, as well. Make sure to budget for technical and legal assessments (due diligence), valuation, management, building insurance and investments. A mortgage usually provides the financing; the bank will assess the deposit, affordability, and potential for return. A larger deposit may be required for commercial properties.

A step-by-step guide to deciding whether buying business premises is right for you

1. Define your goal: own use, investment or a combination of both.

2. Assess the location: footfall, public transport, accessibility, parking.

3. Analyse the property: layout, use, fire safety, energy rating.

4. Review the rental agreements: term, service charges, index-linking, securities.

5. Calculate return: gross and net return, vacancy rate, investment plan.

6. Clarify financing: mortgage, interest rate, amortisation, affordability.

7. Investigate legal aspects: building rights/leasehold, easements, tenancy law in accordance with the Swiss Code of Obligations (OR).

Next steps

We provide listings for a wide range of suitable business premises in Switzerland. Start your search, compare locations and arrange viewings. Consult experts at an early stage and take your decision based on verified documents.