Buying underground parking offers you the opportunity to invest in a valuable and versatile property. Underground parking is particularly in demand in urban areas, where the need for secure and weather-protected parking spaces is high. Whether for personal use, as a rental property, or as an addition to an existing building, the purchase is a solid investment and a smart choice for anyone looking for a stable and future-proof source of income while also investing in a city’s infrastructure.

However, acquiring underground parking requires careful planning and analysis. The location is crucial for the occupancy and profitability of the parking spaces. Especially in central areas or residential neighborhoods with limited parking options, demand is often high. Additionally, the structural conditions such as access, safety measures, and the condition of the facility should be thoroughly inspected to avoid unexpected repair costs.

Buying underground parking in Switzerland

Individual parking spaces, parking boxes or entire facilities under buildings: underground parking offers protection, convenience and reliability – whether you purchase it for your own use or as an investment with the potential to let. In densely populated areas, underground parking is an important part of transport infrastructure; it tends to retain its value.

Underground parking: advantages at a glance

• Suitable for car and motorbike owners in cities and suburbs

• Protection from weather, vandalism and theft; convenient place to park

• For investors: easy to let out and manage

• Aspects to keep in mind: rules governing the property; maintenance and possible restrictions on use

Market overview for underground parking in Switzerland

With over 4.6 million flats in the housing stock and ongoing new construction, the demand for parking spaces in Switzerland is high, especially in urban areas. The population changed by 1.54%, to 9’051’029, in three years – and more people means more vehicles. Consequently, underground car parks in city centres often operate near capacity, while more remote locations have higher turnover.

What costs are involved in purchasing underground parking?

The purchase price depends on the location, number of parking spaces, year of construction, condition, access and facilities (e.g. charging infrastructure). Additional costs include notary and land registry fees, and potentially also a transfer tax (varies by canton). For properties within blocks of flats (STWEG), buyers will have to pay contributions to the renovation fund as well as operating, administrative and insurance costs. Investors should factor rental income and taxes on income and assets into their budget. Financing usually involves a deposit and a mortgage; terms and conditions depend on the property and the buyer’s credit rating.

A step-by-step guide to deciding whether underground parking is right for you

1. Clarify your goal: own use, rental or mixed use.

2. Assess the legal situation: land registry, rules governing the property (STWEG), building rights/leasehold, restrictions on use.

3. Analyse the location: demand, public transport connections, access.

4. Assess technology and condition: building fabric, fire protection, ventilation, lighting, charging points.

5. Calculate profitability: purchase price, ancillary costs, expected rents, financial reserves.

6. Secure financing and complete the purchase: offers, notary, handover.

Next steps

Start your search for suitable underground garages and parking spaces, compare location and costs, and arrange viewings. Request a copy of the land registry entry and rules governing the property, and investigate maintenance costs and financial returns. We offer the latest listings from the whole of Switzerland.