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Buying a house is a big step and requires careful consideration. There are many factors to consider – from your own needs to financial planning to selecting the right property. In this article, you will learn what you should pay particular attention to when buying a house. We show you how to realistically assess your wishes and possibilities, which documents and contracts are important and how to avoid typical stumbling blocks. With our checklist, you can keep track of everything and be well prepared for the path to your own home.

Before buying, you should compare the costs: What would owning your own home cost each month compared to renting your current place? You can use our rent-or-buy calculator to check.

In the case of residential property, mortgage interest and maintenance costs are the main factors. Also consider tax-related aspects such as imputed rental value and possible deductions. Strictly speaking, you should also deduct the returns that you miss out on by putting previously profitable assets into the house as equity. Compare all these possible costs with the monthly net rent of your rented apartment, i.e. the rent after deduction of ancillary costs.

Which is cheaper depends very much on the point in time and the region. For example, real estate prices fluctuate and vary from place to place, as do rents. Other financial factors also play a role in the answer to the question of whether to rent or buy, alongside personal motives.

Before you start looking for a property, you should carefully analyze your personal needs and life plans. Think about how many rooms you need, whether you need a separate office to work from home or space for hobbies. Also think about family planning: Do you have children, or are you planning to? Practical aspects such as a garage, garden or accessibility can also be important.

Also consider your professional mobility: Is it possible you will change your place of work in the next few years? A home of your own usually means a long-term commitment to one location. In contrast to a rented apartment, residential property offers protection against termination by the landlord, but restricts your flexibility. The more clearly you define your wishes and requirements, the easier it will be to find your dream property and avoid compromises later on.

Whether buying a property is worthwhile depends heavily on the current market environment – especially on interest rates and real estate prices. With low interest rates, even higher real estate prices can often be financed soundly. If interest rates rise, a purchase can still make sense if prices are cheaper.

Before you decide, you should carefully check what costs you will have to pay when buying a house, whether affordability is ensured and what financing options are available. Banks in Switzerland usually require at least 20% equity to grant a mortgage. An additional financial cushion to cover unexpected expenses is also recommended.

Remember that in addition to the purchase price, there are also running costs such as insurance, maintenance and renovations. Many of these expenses are tax deductible. With good planning and the right financing, there’s nothing to stop you buying a home. Our checklist will help you keep track of all the key points.

The search for the right property begins with a clear idea of your wishes and needs. First of all, think about how big the house or condominium should be and how many rooms you need. The desired living space also plays an important role – do you want a lot of space or is something more compact enough for you?

Think of practical aspects such as a parking space for your car or motorbike, a garden or a balcony. Consider whether living in the city center is important to you, or whether you prefer country life or living on the outskirts of the city. The location not only affects your quality of life, but also the value of the property. 

When choosing a location, pay attention to the infrastructure: Are there shops, schools and kindergartens nearby? How good is the medical care? Also check the connection to public transport and the accessibility of your workplace.

Take your time to view different properties and compare offers before you buy a property. Step by step, you’ll find the dream property that suits your life plans.

Financing is one of the most important steps on the way to owning your own property. Your own savings are usually not enough to pay the entire purchase price, which is why a mortgage is typically essential. Banks in Switzerland usually require at least 20% equity. The rest is financed with a mortgage loan.

In addition to the classic mortgage, there are various models, such as fixed-rate mortgages with a fixed interest rate or variable-rate mortgages, where the interest rates can change. The terms and repayment arrangements can also be adjusted to the individual. You should also plan for ancillary costs, such as notary fees, taxes and insurance, from the outset.

A solid financing plan ensures you can afford your new home in the long term and are also prepared for unexpected expenses. It’s best to get advice early on to find the right solution for your personal situation.

Additional costs when buying a property

When buying a property, the ancillary purchase costs must be taken into account, in addition to the actual purchase price. These costs can vary considerably, depending on the canton. You should estimate in advance what amounts will be incurred for notary fees, property transfer taxes, land registry fees and, if applicable, brokerage fees.

After signing the contract with the notary, the purchase price is usually paid directly. The keys are also usually handed over immediately afterwards. The purchase is officially completed as soon as the transfer of ownership is entered in the land register – this is also initiated by the notary.

With keys in hand, you can finally enter your new home. Take the time to inspect the property thoroughly again and record the current condition and any defects in writing. Check whether anything has changed since you last viewed it.

If you discover defects after moving in that were concealed from you when you bought the property, seek legal advice immediately. The seller is generally liable for defects for two years, but you must report and document them as soon as possible. In such cases, you can demand a rectification or – in rare cases – even enforce a reduction in the purchase price or reversal of the purchase. With a careful handover and check, you can have a relaxed start to life in your new home.

For many people, buying a home is one of the most important and consequential decisions in life. To ensure that your dream of owning your own home doesn’t turn into a nightmare, careful preparation is essential. Analyze your personal needs and check whether renting or buying is the better choice for you. Get an overview of your financial situation, plan sufficient equity and reserves and find out about the various financing options.

When looking for a property, pay attention to the location, infrastructure and the right municipality. Check the condition of the house carefully and don’t be fooled by superficial impressions – construction defects or renovation needs in particular can be expensive later on. Check all documents and contractual partners carefully, especially in the case of new buildings. Read the purchase contract carefully and seek specialist advice if anything is not clear.

A structured approach, a realistic assessment of your options and our checklist will stand you in good stead. Nothing will then stand in the way of owning your own home.