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Switzerland – Finding Property to Buy

Popular Estate Agencies

  • Engel & Völkers: This agency specializes in luxury properties and has over 800 offices in more than 30 countries.
  • Sotheby’s International Realty: This agency specializes in luxury properties and has offices in many major cities in Switzerland.
  • Homegate: This is one of the most popular online property platforms in Switzerland, with a wide range of listings and a user-friendly interface.
  • ImmoScout24: This is another popular online platform for property listings in Switzerland, with a wide range of properties and detailed information on each listing.
  • Kellerhals Carrard: This agency has a wide range of properties for sale and for rent, and offers services such as property evaluations, property management, and real estate financing.

Qualifications and Licenses for Estate Agents in Switzerland

Estate agents in Switzerland must be licensed by the cantonal government. They must also have completed a training program and passed an exam. In addition, they must be a member of a professional association.

Breakdown of Estate Agent Fees in Switzerland

Estate agent fees in Switzerland are typically around 2-3% of the sale price of the property. This fee is usually split between the seller and the buyer. The exact fee may vary depending on the location, value, and complexity of the property. Some agents may also charge additional fees for services such as property evaluations or property management.

Alternate Resources for Finding Property in Switzerland

  • Property websites: such as ImmoScout24, homegate, and newhome
  • Expat websites: such as Internations, Expat.com
  • Newspapers: such as Tages Anzeiger, Neue Zürcher Zeitung
  • Magazines: such as Living in Switzerland, Swiss News
  • Word of mouth: Ask friends and family living in Switzerland if they know of any property available for sale.

Use of Buyer’s Agents in Switzerland

The use of buyer’s agents is not common in Switzerland. The use of buyer’s agent is not regulated in Switzerland, and there is no specific qualification or license required. However, most buyer’s agents in Switzerland are licensed real estate agents.

Organizations for Foreign Property Buyers in Switzerland


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  • The Swiss-American Chamber of Commerce: This organization provides information and assistance to foreign investors in Switzerland. Website: https://www.amcham.ch/
  • The American International Club of Geneva: This organization provides information and assistance to American expats in Geneva. Website: https://www.aicgeneva.org/
  • The British-Swiss Chamber of Commerce: This organization provides information and assistance to British investors in Switzerland. Website: https://www.bscc.co.uk/
  • The Australian Swiss Chamber of Commerce: This organization provides information and assistance to Australian investors in Switzerland. Website: https://www.australianswiss.ch/

It is worth noting that, it is always recommended to seek legal and financial advice before purchasing a property in a foreign country.


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