Real estate financing in Swiss Romande: 2025 guide

What to remember in 30 seconds

Calculate your budget first. A financing certificate saves you time during viewings and lends credibility to your offer. Equity: aim for a 20% down payment, 10% of which in cash / 3rd pillar. The 2nd pillar (LPP) can supplement this under certain conditions. Rates: fixed = stability, SARON = flexibility and the option to switch to fixed. A mix is often relevant. Anticipate purchase costs (transfer duties, Land Registry, notary, mortgage note) approximately 3.3% to 5%. A CECB is mandatory when selling an existing home.

Where to start?

Before viewings, spend 1 hour drawing up a detailed budget with a specialist. Result: a solid financing certificate. Indicative document checklist: last 3 pay slips, LPP certificate, bank statements, civil status. Centralise all your documents (PDF) in a cloud folder.

Borrowing capacity: how is it calculated?

The bank assesses: income taken into account, expenses, commitments, available equity. Tip: have your pay slips reviewed.

Fixed, variable, SARON rates: which to choose?

The fixed rate is perfect for stability. The SARON mortgage is indexed to the money market rate. Adapt your mix to your risk profile.

Equity: 20% of which 10% in cash; 2nd/3rd pillar, how to use them?

Aim for a 20% down payment. Use the 2nd pillar every 5 years. The 3rd pillar is considered as cash.

When to fix your rate? And for how long?

Avoid fixing for too long after a rate cut. If in doubt, split and mix.

Bank or broker: who to turn to?

Negotiate directly with your bank if your file is solid. Use a broker for a borderline file.

"Average" income: is it still possible to buy?

Yes, if your equity structure is solid.

Additional costs to anticipate (Vaud & Valais)

Expect costs of around 3.3% to 5% of the purchase price.

Renovations, energy and CECB: what changes your financing

A CECB is mandatory when selling. Renovations can improve financing conditions.

Renegotiating your mortgage: when and how?

Start renegotiation at maturity.

Common mistakes to avoid

Do not always choose the cheapest offer.

Should you buy "at any cost"?

Renting can sometimes remain more rational.

Retirement planning: the core of your real estate project

Your property becomes the core of your retirement assets.

Optimising your financing (amortisation, comparison, etc.)

Mix durations and products.

Albert's advice for a young couple

Buy a first property, build capital, then move up in range.

Resources & listen to the episode

Links to YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and others.

Financing your property in French-speaking Switzerland: the keys (with Albert Kololli, Infinis)