As in many other countries, most Swiss properties are now listed online. Property listings can also be found in all the main newspapers, as well as specialist property papers, which are usually distributed by estate agents and in shopping malls for free.
High competition for rental properties means that often they may have already been let by the time they are listed. Properties for sale tend to move more slowly, but local knowledge remains an advantage and it is typically well worth registering with one or more local agents who may have access to properties before they are publicly advertised.
Zoning regulations in Switzerland are strict and have been tightened further in 2013. While existing properties on agricultural land (farm houses, for example) may be bought and used by people who are not agricultural workers, there may be strict limitations on new construction, extensions or even repairs to buildings not required for agricultural work.
Main online property portals
Find a real estate agency
- Swiss Real Estate Association (SVIT)
- SVIT Member directory
- Swiss Union of Real Estate Professionals (USPI) (in French only) Active only in the Swiss Romand area. Visit regional sites for list of local members.
Large real estate agencies
- Privera
- Wincasa (in French, German and Italian only)
- SPG (in French only)
- Moser Vernet & CIE
- Naef (in French only)