Real Estate in Winterthur, Switzerland
Last updated on Jul 12, 2024
Summary: The average cost of a nice 2 bedroom home in Winterthur, Switzerland is around $500,000 USD. The average cost of a nice 3 bedroom home in Winterthur is around $700,000 USD. These properties typically include modern amenities such as updated kitchens, bathrooms, and living spaces. They may also include balconies, terraces, and/or gardens. There are no restrictions on foreign ownership for properties in Winterthur. An expat should search for a home to buy in Winterthur by researching the local real estate market, attending open houses, and/or working with a real estate agent. The most desirable neighborhoods in Winterthur are Oberwinterthur, Seen, and Töss. These neighborhoods offer a variety of amenities, including parks, restaurants, and shopping.
How do I find a place to live in Winterthur?
We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Winterthur is to use online resources such as websites and apps. Websites such as Immoscout24, Homegate, and ImmoStreet are popular in Switzerland and offer a wide range of rental properties in Winterthur. Additionally, there are a number of real estate agents in the city who can help you find a place to live. It is also possible to find rental properties through classified ads in local newspapers and on bulletin boards. Finally, it is worth asking around in the local community as word of mouth can be a great way to find a place to live," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Winterthur.
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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Winterthur?
"Expat homes and apartments in Winterthur are typically modern and spacious, with large windows that let in plenty of natural light. Many of the apartments have balconies or terraces, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The interiors are often decorated with contemporary furnishings and feature high-end appliances. Expats in Winterthur can also expect to find plenty of storage space, as well as access to a variety of amenities such as gyms, swimming pools, and saunas," said one expat in Winterthur.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
What is the average cost of housing in Winterthur?
If you are thinking about moving to Winterthur, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:
"The cost of housing in Winterthur is generally quite high. Renting an apartment in the city can be expensive, with prices ranging from around 1,500 Swiss Francs per month for a one-bedroom apartment to around 3,000 Swiss Francs per month for a three-bedroom apartment. Buying a property in Winterthur is also costly, with the average price for a three-bedroom apartment being around 1.2 million Swiss Francs," explained one expat living in Winterthur, Switzerland.
Should I buy or rent a home in Winterthur?
If you have not spent a lot of time in Winterthur, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:
"Whether you should buy or rent a home in Winterthur is a personal decision that depends on a variety of factors such as your budget, lifestyle, and the current real estate market. Buyers must consider whether they can reasonably afford a home, as well as the closing costs associated with a home purchase. If you're not ready to commit to a long-term mortgage or don't have the money available to purchase a home in Winterthur, then renting may be the better option. Speak to a real estate expert to get a better understanding of the current real estate market and what kind of rates you can expect. They may also be able to give you tips on the best neighborhoods for housing in Winterthur and what kind of rental agreements are available in the city," said one person in Winterthur.
What do I need to know when buying property in Winterthur?
When we asked expats what advice they would give a foreigner before buying a property in Winterthur, they said:
"When buying property in Winterthur, it is important to be aware of the local laws and regulations. It is also important to research the local market and understand the current trends in the area. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the taxes and fees associated with purchasing property in Switzerland, as well as any restrictions on foreign ownership. It is also important to be aware of the local infrastructure and amenities, such as public transportation, schools, and hospitals. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local culture and customs, as well as any potential risks associated with the area," explained one expat in Winterthur.
Are foreigners allowed to own property in Winterthur?
When we asked expats what advice they would give a foreigner before buying a property in Winterthur, they said...
"Yes, foreigners are allowed to own property in Winterthur. Non-Swiss citizens are able to purchase real estate in the country, provided they have a valid residence permit. The permit must be obtained from the local cantonal authorities, and the process can take several months. In addition, foreign buyers must also obtain permission from the Federal Office for Migration before they can purchase property in Switzerland," said one in Winterthur.
What appliances are typically included in a rental?
We asked foreigners in Winterthur what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included:
"In a rental property in Winterthur, tenants can typically expect to find a refrigerator, stove, oven, dishwasher, washing machine, and dryer. Additionally, some properties may include a microwave, toaster, and other small kitchen appliances," explained one person living in Winterthur, Switzerland.
Additional Information about Searching for a Home in Winterthur:
We asked foreigners in Winterthur what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included...
"Expats in Winterthur can search for homes by looking online for real estate listings, contacting local real estate agents, and asking friends and colleagues for recommendations. They can also attend open houses and viewings to get a better sense of the local housing market. Additionally, expats can join online forums and social media groups to connect with other expats in the area and ask for advice on finding a home," explained one person living in Winterthur, Switzerland.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad 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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