Renting
Over
70% of the Swiss
people rent their houses and apartments. Tenants’ rights are closely protected by corresponding regulations.
A fully equipped kitchen and bathroom are always included in the rent. In general, flats and houses
are unfurnished. In every tenement, there is a communal washing machine and drying room. For apartments,
a 3-month period of notice is common. Houses are often rented on a long term lease. A rented room or
small flat costs between CHF 800.- and 1'400.- per month, larger flats of three to five bedrooms will
cost between CHF 1'700.- and 2'500.-.
Buying
Those who are planning to stay in the city for a lengthy period of time may consider buying a house or apartment. Almost all banks offer mortgages; buyers need to put up at least 20% of the purchase price themselves. In order to be valid, the purchase agreement needs to be attested by a notary, and must be entered in the Land Registry. Foreigners wishing to acquire land in Switzerland are subject to special rules and regulations: prospective buyers who do not have permanent residency status first need to have the deal sanctioned by the relevant authorities.
