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Real Estate in Lausanne, Switzerland | Expat Exchange
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Real Estate in Lausanne, Switzerland

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on May 08, 2024

Summary: People living in Lausanne, Switzerland offer advice about real estate. How do you find a home in Lausanne? Should you buy or rent? What is the cost of housing?

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How do I find a place to live in Lausanne?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"I contacted [email protected] as they had some good houses in the lausanne area that were really good for my family as they were close to the city center but still very residential and "suburban" but without being far away, and close to international school for my kids," remarked one member in Lausanne.

"Finding a place to live in Lausanne, involves several steps. First, you need to determine your budget and the type of accommodation you're looking for. This could range from a studio apartment to a larger family home. Next, you should research the different neighborhoods in Lausanne to find one that suits your lifestyle and needs. Some popular areas include Ouchy, Flon, and Sous-Gare. Once you have a clear idea of what you're looking for, you can start your search. There are several online platforms where you can find listings for rental properties in Lausanne. These include Homegate, ImmoScout24, and Comparis. You can also use a real estate agent to help you find a place. They can provide you with expert advice and access to listings that may not be publicly available. When you find a property you're interested in, you'll need to contact the landlord or real estate agent to arrange a viewing. It's important to act quickly, as the rental market in Lausanne can be competitive. If you decide to apply for a property, you'll need to provide several documents. These typically include proof of income, a copy of your passport, and a Swiss residency permit if you're not a Swiss citizen. Finally, if your application is successful, you'll need to sign a lease agreement. Make sure you understand all the terms and conditions before signing. It's also common in Switzerland to pay a security deposit, which is usually equivalent to one to three months' rent. Remember, finding a place to live can take time, so it's a good idea to start your search well in advance of your move," explained one expat living in Lausanne, Switzerland.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Lausanne?

"A typical expat home or apartment in Lausanne, is often located in a modern building, with a beautiful view of the city or Lake Geneva. These homes are usually fully furnished, featuring a blend of contemporary and traditional Swiss design. The living room is spacious, often with large windows that let in plenty of natural light. The kitchen is typically equipped with modern appliances, including a dishwasher, oven, and refrigerator. Bedrooms are comfortable and cozy, often with built-in wardrobes for storage. Bathrooms are usually modern and clean, with a shower or bathtub. Some apartments may also have a small balcony or terrace, providing a private outdoor space. The buildings often come with amenities such as a laundry room, a gym, or a communal garden. Some may even have a concierge service. The location of these homes is usually convenient, close to public transportation, shops, restaurants, and parks. Despite being in the city, these homes often offer a quiet and peaceful living environment. The buildings are well-maintained, with clean and secure entrances. Parking spaces or garages may also be available, although many expats in Lausanne choose to use public transportation or bicycles for their daily commute. In terms of utilities, most apartments in Lausanne come with central heating, and some may also have air conditioning. Internet and cable TV are usually readily available. Overall, expat homes in Lausanne offer a comfortable and convenient living environment, with a touch of Swiss elegance and charm," said one person in Lausanne.

"A "villa jumelle" which is 2 houses next to each other. This is a good value here as the rent is a good value and you have your own house and garden and not so much land or expenses to take care of for a stand alone house. This is very common in this area," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Lausanne.

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Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.

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What is the average cost of housing in Lausanne?

If you are thinking about moving to Lausanne, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"Higher. Our rent seems to be less than some of our friends though. You can expect to pay 6 thousand francs per month easily for a family home in a good area," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Lausanne.

"The average cost of housing in Lausanne can vary greatly depending on the type and location of the property. For a one-bedroom apartment in the city center, you can expect to pay a monthly rent of around 1,500 to 2,000 Swiss Francs. If you prefer to live outside of the city center, the rent for a similar apartment might decrease to around 1,200 to 1,500 Swiss Francs per month. For larger apartments or houses, the prices can significantly increase. If you're looking to buy property, the average price per square meter in the city center is around 13,000 Swiss Francs, while outside of the city center it drops to approximately 10,000 Swiss Francs per square meter. However, these prices can fluctuate based on market conditions and other factors," explained one person living in Lausanne, Switzerland.

Should I buy or rent a home in Lausanne?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Lausanne, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"The decision to buy or rent a home in Lausanne, largely depends on your personal circumstances, financial situation, and long-term plans. If you plan to stay in Lausanne for a long period, buying a home could be a good investment. Owning a property allows you to build equity over time and could provide financial security in the future. However, buying a home also comes with significant upfront costs, including a down payment, closing costs, and maintenance expenses. It also requires a long-term commitment, as selling a home can take time and money. On the other hand, renting a home in Lausanne offers more flexibility. It's a good option if you're not sure how long you'll be staying or if you prefer not to deal with the responsibilities of homeownership. Renting can also be more affordable in the short term, as it doesn't require a large upfront investment. However, when you rent, your monthly payments don't contribute to building equity, and you may face annual rent increases. You also have less control over your living situation, as you're subject to the rules and decisions of your landlord. In conclusion, both buying and renting have their pros and cons. It's important to carefully consider your financial situation, lifestyle, and future plans before making a decision. Consulting with a financial advisor or real estate professional can also be helpful," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Lausanne.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

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SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
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