Switzerland Guide: Housing & Rentals

Finding accommodation can be a time-consuming task, especially in a foreign country. Our housing guide explains where to look for appartments and accommodation, how to deal with local estate agents and what to bear in mind before signing a rental contract.

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  Student Housing

  How to find a student flat

  Many universities offer subsidized accommodation for Swiss and international students. This is usually a room in a shared apartment, but some residences also offer apartments for families.

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  The rental market in Switzerland

  What you need to know

  In many regions of Switzerland, large cities in particular, it is hard to find affordable accommodation. Researching the market and preparing yourself for what to expect is essential and will help to streamline your search.

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  Getting started

  How to prepare your housing search in Switzerland

  Looking for an apartment in Switzerland can be a time-consuming and nerve-wracking experience. Whatever you do, give yourself plenty of time as you will be much more likely to get what you are looking for this way.

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  Classifieds

  Big choice - big competition

  Classified advertisements for flats can be found in many local newspapers, particularly in the Wednesday and weekend editions.

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  Estate agents

  How to deal with paid search services

  Real estate agents ( Makler, agences immobilières) are private agents or companies that deal in the rental and sale of property. The addresses of estate agents can be found in the Yellow Pages.

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  Short-term housing in Switzerland

  Conditions and alternatives for short-term stays

  Expats looking to stay in Switzerland for less than a year or so often come across fierce competition for the apartment they want. Unfortunately, because of the high demand, landlords and estate agencies rarely bother renting their property for a short stays. That being said, there are an increasing number of options available for temporary expats.

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  Rental contracts

  Notice periods, deposits and house rules

   When an apartment is rented a rent contract is signed. This contract contains details about the apartment, in addition to the rights and obligations of tenant and landlord.

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  Household & utilities

  What to take care of when moving in

  When moving into a new apartment you often have to take care of a lot of things that might work differently in Switzerland than in your home country. The following list should help you to get started.

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