Finding a property on major portals
Nowadays, the majority of properties that go on sale are listed online in some form or another. Thus, a search for your dream property should begin on the big real estate portals: Homegate, Immoscout, and Comparis stand out as three of the market leaders in Switzerland. With their extensive listings, these digital marketplaces provide a comprehensive overview of apartments, houses, and plots for sale.
Powerful search filters on these portals allow for a targeted and efficient property search. In addition to location and price, you can specify parameters such as the number of rooms, year of construction, amenities, and more. This allows you to quickly narrow down your search to properties that align with your personal needs.
To stay current about new listings, many property portals offer the option to set up search subscriptions. As a user, you can set up your search criteria and receive automated notifications when newly listed properties match their specifications. This feature saves time and ensures that you don’t overlook potentially interesting offers.
The search for a property can also be extended to specialised portals that focus on particular segments. For instance, new construction projects still in the planning phase are often advertised on such dedicated platforms. If purchasing a newly built apartment is an option for you, it may be worthwhile to keep an eye on dedicated portals.
Finding a property with a real estate broker
An alternative path to your dream property involves working with a real estate agent or broker. These professionals not only serve as a valuable resource for prospective buyers but often provide additional benefits beyond what is available on public portals.
Major real estate brokers will be handling a diverse range of property sales at any given point. If the broker is sufficiently digital and modern, they typically maintain their own website, providing detailed information about available properties. Some agents may also have exclusive listings that are prioritised on their own websites. Therefore, it is advisable to keep an eye on the websites of real estate brokers and agencies in addition to the major portals.
Furthermore, there is the option to hire a broker and have him or her search for a property. You inform the agent of the location and type of property you are seeking, and the agent will notify you when they have found a property that meets your criteria.
Finding a property through alternative channels
Even in the age of the internet, traditional media still play a certain role in property transactions. Some property owners simply prefer to advertise locally, and in such cases, traditional newspapers and local listings will be the only means to access these offers. Checking the property sections in local newspapers, your may well discover listings that are not advertised online.
In addition, there are classified ad portals like Anibis and Tutti, which provide a wealth of advertisements, including property listings. Similar to traditional print media, these portals can sometimes feature ads that are not published anywhere else.
Lastly, social media provides a channel for buyers and sellers to connect directly. Platforms such as Facebook and Instagram are utilised by real estate agents, developers, as well as private sellers to showcase both residential and commercial properties for sale. Groups and pages dedicated to real estate can be a valuable source to find current listings and get into direct contact with sellers.
Word of mouth and local networking
Even in today's era, word-of-mouth remains an effective method of finding your future home. Many properties are still sold off-market: to neighbours, acquaintances, or family members. If you know someone in the area where you intend to buy, consider asking them to keep their ears open. Even if your acquaintance doesn't know the seller in person, you might discover your desired property through two or three degrees of separation.
Secure your financing early
To obtain a mortgage, there are really only two fundamental options: you can either directly contact a lender such as a bank or insurance company, or you can work with a financial advisor or mortgage broker who will contact various providers on your behalf. In either case, it is worthwhile to act early: by working with a financial institution or financial advisor, you will know your budget, optimise your financial resources, and prepare yourself to make an offer once you have found your dream property.
It is advisable to define your budget early on, even before starting the property search. A financial advisor can assist you in analysing your income and wealth, calculate your maximum monthly costs, and present financing options. You can then limit your search to properties that you can actually afford. Furthermore, with a preliminary financing certificate, you increase your chances of securing viewing appointments, as many sellers only allow potential buyers with sufficient financial means to attend viewings.
Once a property has made it into your shortlist, you have another advantage: if you are already working with a financial advisor, they will be happy to evaluate the property for you. Knowing the market value is crucial for negotiating with sellers. It also plays a central role in mortgage approval, as the principle of lower value states that a lender may only mortgage the lower of the purchase price or market value. If you buy a property significantly above the market value, you must cover the difference between the market value and the purchase price with additional cash.
Making your real estate search a success with Strike
Strike offers a comprehensive mortgage advisory and brokerage service.We provide comprehensive support for all financial matters related to your real estate purchase, from mortgages to retirement planning to tax optimization. Your personal advisor takes care of all administrative tasks and analyses your financial situation to advise you on the financial implications of your purchase. In addition, we will present you with the mortgage and insurance offers on the market that best suit your needs and situation.
Furthermore, as a customer of Strike, your benefit from a solution to make your property search easier – our exclusive partnership with Neho, the Swiss market leader in the sale of private residential properties. As a Strike customer, you will benefit from the following advantages in your property search with our partner:
- Super Early Access: Gain exclusive access to Neho properties before they are publicly listed. This provides you with a decisive advantage over other prospective buyers.
- Priority in viewing appointments: Strike guarantees you priority in booking viewing appointments for Neho properties.
Contact your local Strike advisor to discuss your real estate purchase and maximise your chances of getting your dream property!
