Flat for sale

If you are interested in buying a property and you have saved up the money, then it's time to consider an apartment for sale. Our apartment search database at ImmoScout24 will make it easy to find an apartment suited for you. You will be able to choose a Switzerland apartment

that suits your needs including features like size, price, and amenities. Perhaps you don't want to buy an apartment, but you have one that you would like to sell, then you can use our database as well. You can buy or sell your property in confidence with the tools we offer.

Buying a flat in Switzerland

Purchasing a flat is a good option for owner-occupiers who want to live independently as well as for investors planning for the long term. From compact studios and classic owner-occupied flats to spacious family flats in multi-unit buildings, locations with good transport links and amenities and floor plans that make efficient use of space are in particularly high demand. Demand is high and the market is tight – the vacancy rate for properties in Switzerland as a whole is just 1.01%.

Buying a flat: the most important information at a glance

For everyone from singles to families: wide selection from 1 to 6+ rooms
Stable demand and moderate vacancy rates help properties retain value
Plan for communal costs as part of owning a flat within a block of flats (STWEG): renovation fund, administration
For investors: depending on location, high demand for rentals may bolster return on investment
You will need an affordable property and a good deposit to secure financing

Market overview for flats for sale in Switzerland

The housing stock in Switzerland comprises 4’840’096 flats (all flats in Switzerland). Over the last five years, 71’190 new flats have been built, including 71’190 three-room and 61’659 four-room flats (new builds), which underscores the demand for compact floor plans. The overall vacancy rate is 1.01%; it is 1.13% for three-room flats and 0.97% for four-room flats (based on the respective room category) – this indicates limited availability and stable prices in these segments. The population of Switzerland changed to 9’051’029 (+3.57% relative to the total population) in three years, further bolstering demand. To estimate your potential return on investment, it might be helpful to know that the average rent for properties in Switzerland is CHF 1640 per month; 25% of properties cost CHF 1300 or less, and 75% of properties cost CHF 2070 or less (rental properties). You can calculate gross yields based on the location of the property.

What costs are involved in buying a flat?

When buying a flat in Switzerland, in addition to the purchase price, you will pay notary and land registry fees and, depending on the canton, possibly transfer tax, as well. Owning a flat means that you will also have to pay fees for administration and maintenance on an ongoing basis (STWEG). A minimum deposit of 20% is customary for a property purchase; a good rule of thumb for affordability is that monthly costs should not exceed one third of gross income. Interest rates, amortisation and energy efficiency affect costs and value.

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

Define your requirements: location, number of rooms, budget, own use or investment.
Assess affordability and obtain confirmation of financing.
Filter properties: public transport, schools, noise pollution, energy ratings.
Review property documents: land registry, documents covering rules and details of property ownership (STWEG), reports and records, renovation fund.
Assess the renovation plan and the condition of the building; obtain quotes.
Compare price and return on investment; reservation/purchase agreement at the notary’s office.

Next steps

Start your search with precise filters, set up online notifications and arrange viewings early on. Request complete documentation and have the financing and the rules governing the flat (STWEG) reviewed. This will enable you to take informed decisions and secure the right flat for you.