Buy a 5-bedroom-apartment
Buying a 5-room flat or larger in Switzerland
Large flats provide plenty of space for family, hobbies and working from home. They represent comfort and the ability to plan for the long term. They are in high demand for buyers, and the limited supply means that they tend to retain their value.
Advantages of large flats (5 rooms and larger)
Enormous amount of space and the freedom to use the property flexibly for all aspects of day-to-day life and work
Low vacancy rates: 0.72% (5 rooms) and 0.84% (more than 5)
Rare properties – strong value retention in good locations
Attractive for family-friendly neighbourhoods and long-term life planning
Suitable for investors with a consistent target group
Market overview: large flats in Switzerland
The stock of large flats is limited: there are 715'989 5-room flats and 442'814 flats with 6 rooms or more. Over the last 5 years, 26'158 new 5-room flats and 10'938 new flats with 6+ rooms have been built. Vacancy rates are very low (0.72% and 0.84% respectively), reflecting the scarcity and steady demand. Switzerland is changing (+1.54% in 3 years), and incomes and employment are strong – a situation that favours larger households. In cities, large flats are expensive and difficult to come by; in the suburbs and rural areas, the supply is somewhat more extensive. New builds and renovation projects are focused on densification and energy efficiency, further increasing the quality of existing properties.
Who is a large flat suitable for?
5-room or larger flats are particularly suitable for families with several children, couples who need a lot of space, flat-shares and self-employed people with home offices. Multi-generational households can also benefit from having additional rooms. With these properties, investors can target a reliable group of tenants, especially in well-connected neighbourhoods close to public transport links and schools.
What costs are involved in the purchase?
In addition to the purchase price, there are notary and land registry fees to be paid, and transfer fees may also be incurred, depending on the canton in question. For buyers purchasing a flat within a block of flats, fees for administration, building maintenance and the renovation fund must be taken into account; in large flats, these fees are often higher in line with the larger co-ownership share. Ongoing expenses include maintenance, building insurance (regulated by the canton) and utility costs. The imputed rental value, deductions for mortgage interest, and deductions for maintenance to retain value are relevant for tax purposes. The tax burden varies from canton to canton and from person to person (average: 12.38%). It is important to plan your financial reserves carefully and make sure your property purchase is within your price range.
How to find the right large flat
Define your space requirements: bedroom, study, storage space.
Set your budget and financing; consult with your bank to ensure you can afford the property.
Evaluate the location and amenities: public transport, schools, leisure activities, neighbourhood.
Analyse the floor plan, orientation, noise and energy ratings.
Check the documents covering the details of property ownership (STWEG): house rules, records and reports, expenses, the co-ownership share and associated costs.
Assess the condition of the property: year of construction, renovations, potential investments.
Consult experts: valuation, architecture, tax/accounting consultation.
