We usually expect the sale of a property to take an average of 3 to 6 months from the initial sale order to entering the change of ownership into the land register. This may vary depending on the location and particular features of the individual property. Even the choice of marketing partner, ideally a competent real estate broker with experience in the region, can be a decisive factor. In the wrong hands, the sale of a property can become a never-ending saga.

A rough market valuation can only be taken as an initial reference point for the price of sale. Finding the right price requires experience of the local property market and professional expertise. A viewing of the property is as crucial as an in-depth analysis of the key information about the property, taking the general market conditions into consideration. A reputable estate agent combines and evaluates the criteria, defining a realistic price range within which the buyer and seller can reach an agreement.

Even with properties, you don’t get a second chance at a first impression. Small investments (of a few thousand Swiss francs) can work wonders. Consider a fresh coat of paint. But beware: new owners usually want to style their future home according to their tastes. So costly renovations are rarely worthwhile, particularly when it comes to kitchens, bathrooms and floors. If they don’t suit the buyer’s taste, then the saleability investments can lower rather than raise the price. Because here, too, first impressions matter.