Finding an estate agent: how to choose the right agent in Switzerland
Anyone who wants to sell or let a property soon faces the question: on your own or with an estate agent? This guide explains what an estate agent does, how commission usually works in Switzerland and how to recognise the right agent for you.
What does an estate agent do?
An estate agent supports you in selling, buying or letting a property. Typical services include:
- Assessing the market value and setting a pricing strategy
- Preparing sales documentation with photos, floor plans and documents
- Advertising on property portals and in their own networks
- Viewings, talks with prospective buyers and checking their financing
- Negotiations and support up to the notarisation of the sale
What does an estate agent cost?
In Switzerland, the agent’s commission is usually agreed as a percentage of the sale price achieved. According to Comparis, in German-speaking Switzerland it is typically 2 to 3 per cent for detached houses and condominiums, 1.5 to 2 per cent for apartment buildings and around 5 per cent for building land. For higher sale prices, the percentage is often lower.
The commission is negotiable. Clarify in writing which services are included and whether additional costs – for example for advertisements or photos – are charged separately.
Legally, the brokerage contract is governed by Articles 412 et seq. of the Swiss Code of Obligations (CO). Under Art. 413 CO, the agent’s fee is generally only due once the contract has been concluded as a result of the agent’s efforts. Different arrangements are possible – so read the contract carefully.
Checklist: how to recognise a good estate agent
- Local market knowledge: Does the agent know your municipality and comparable sales in the area?
- References: Ask for examples of similar properties the agent has recently marketed.
- Realistic price assessment: Be wary of conspicuously high valuations – an asking price that is too high can delay the sale. If in doubt, obtain an independent valuation.
- Qualifications: Ask about training, such as the Swiss federal diploma in real estate marketing (eidgenössischer Fachausweis Immobilienvermarkter/in), and about any membership of a professional association.
- Marketing concept: How and where will your property be presented? Who will produce the photos and documents?
- Transparent contract: Commission, services, additional costs, exclusivity, duration and termination should be clearly set out.
- Communication and language: How often will you be kept informed? Does the agent speak the languages of your target buyers?
Questions for the first meeting
- How do you assess the value of my property – and what is your assessment based on?
- Which comparable properties have you sold in recent months?
- Which services are included in the commission, and which are not?
- Do you work with an exclusive mandate, and how long does it run?
- Who is my contact person, and how can I reach them?
Find estate agents on SwissImmoMap
In the directory of estate agents you will find agents all over Switzerland – filterable by canton, location and languages spoken. Compare several providers before you decide.
