Selling property with an estate agent: key information at a glance

Here are some tips to help you choose an estate agent:

• Open communication: make sure that the estate agent informs you openly and honestly about all aspects of the sales process. 

• Training: ask about the estate agent’s training – there is no legal requirement for professional training in Switzerland. Membership of professional associations that require further training and examinations is a good sign. 

• Regional expertise: a competent estate agent knows the local market, prices and the supply and demand situation. 

• No advance payment: a professional estate agent does not require advance payments. 

• References: ask for reference properties and sales documentation from previous sales. 

Are you preparing for your first appointment with an estate agent or about to sign a contract? Asking these 20 questions will give you an idea of how skilled an estate agent is.

A private house sale seems inexpensive at first glance, but it does involve some risks. Without the expertise of an estate agent, the following problems can arise:

• Incorrect valuation: owners often set prices that are either too high or too low. This can deter prospective buyers or cause financial losses.

• Unprofessional marketing: private listings usually have reduced reach and quality. This may lead to a longer sales process.

• Lack of negotiating skills: laypeople often find it difficult to negotiate with experienced buyers on an equal footing.

As a general rule, the amount of the estate agent’s commission is negotiable. Here are some tips:

• Compare offers: be sure to get several quotes – the scope and quality of services offered by estate agents can vary significantly.

• Beware of discounts: you may have seen ads from estate agents offering “reduced” commissions of less than 2–3%. These lower commissions are usually associated with lower performance.

• Watch out for advance payments: usually, estate agents do their work in advance of payment. This means that the client only pays the estate agent the contractually agreed commission if the property is sold. Only sign contracts that guarantee 100% advance payment.

As a rule, an estate agent is subject to commission. This means that they only receive a fee if they successfully find a buyer and the sale is completed. 

If the sale fails, you do not have to pay any commission. However, it is possible that an expense allowance has been agreed in the contract. The estate agent will receive this even if the sale is unsuccessful.