Relocation Zurich
Independent home search for people moving to Zurich — rentals and purchases, in English and German.
CROVES Real Estate handles the property side of relocation to Zurich, Switzerland. The practice is led by Caroline Staub — Federally Certified Real Estate Trustee, MBA Real Estate International. We are engaged by you, and we cover the Zurich market on your behalf — including properties that are never publicly listed.
Speak to us directlyWhy housing is the hard part of a Zurich relocation
Permits and paperwork follow a defined process. Housing does not. Zurich is a relationship market with persistently low vacancy: attractive apartments and houses frequently change hands before an advertisement appears, and rental applications are decided on the strength and completeness of the dossier. Arriving without local representation usually means competing late, on the visible part of the market only.
What we do for relocating clients
- Search profile and neighbourhoods: commute, schools, lake or city, space against location — narrowed down before viewings begin.
- Market coverage: listed properties plus discreet, targeted approaches to owners, management companies and brokers for off-market opportunities.
- Viewings by proxy: we attend on your behalf while you are still abroad and report back with video, photos and an honest assessment.
- Rental applications: a complete, credible Swiss-format dossier, submitted fast — the single biggest lever in a competitive letting.
- Purchase support: documentation and condominium records, price plausibility, negotiation and accompaniment through the notarised purchase.
- After arrival: handover, and optional Residence & Relocation Services for the property once you are in it.
Rent first, buy later — the usual sequence
For most people moving to Zurich, a rental is the realistic first step: it lets you learn the neighbourhoods before committing. Purchase becomes relevant once Swiss residence is registered. We offer you both services.
Relocation Zurich — questions and answers
What does relocation to Zurich involve?
A move to Zurich usually runs in this order: employment contract and residence permit, then housing, then registration at the local residents' office (Kreisbüro) within 14 days of arrival, then the practical setup — health insurance, bank account, utilities, schools. Property purchase, if it is a goal at all, normally follows once Swiss residence is established.
How hard is it to find an apartment in Zurich as an expat?
Zurich rental vacancy sits well below one percent, and desirable apartments often attract dozens of applications within days. Landlords and management companies favour complete, credible dossiers from applicants they can place. Local representation, a prepared application file and access to properties before they are advertised make the decisive difference.
Can you help before I arrive in Switzerland?
Yes. Most international clients engage us while still abroad. We define the search profile remotely, shortlist neighbourhoods against commute, schools and lifestyle, attend viewings on your behalf and report back with video and photos, so that the trip you do make is spent on a short list rather than on orientation.
Do you also handle rentals, not just purchases?
Yes. The active search mandate covers rentals as well as purchases. For most people relocating to Zurich, a rental is the realistic first step.
Discuss your property matter with us personally.
We would be happy to discuss your situation, your objectives and the possible approach in a personal conversation.