What to look out for when viewing a rental property
When did you last use your balcony to sunbathe or eat breakfast with friends? For many people, that is just a distant memory. Over time, it is not uncommon for outside spaces to gradually become an extra storage area and enjoying your morning coffee in the sun might now be a thing of the past. With our tips and tricks, you can give your outside space a relaxed holiday feel.
Need space for kids, starting a new job abroad or simply fancy a change of scene? A new stage in life often goes hand in hand with house hunting. However, nowadays it’s not easy to find a new flat. After all, the competition never sleeps. The property viewing process plays an important role. That’s why we have put together a checklist of things to remember as a prospective new tenant. With these tips, you could soon be signing the rental agreement for your dream home. You can find more tips about moving here.
Before the viewing
You should begin preparing before the viewing. Start by going online to google information about the area. There is a lot that you need to find out about your new neighbourhood.
- In which municipality is the new flat? What is the tax rate for that area and what is the situation regarding the municipal finances? Could this lead to a tax increase in the future?
- What are the shopping facilities, public transport connections and recreational areas like in the region?
- Is there a sports centre, a doctor’s surgery, a nursery and a park nearby?
- You may also want to visit the neighbourhood in advance to find out how congested and noisy the residential area is.
- Are there enough green spaces for your four-legged friend? Or is there a cat-friendly way out of the house?
As well as your investigative research, you should also prepare your application documents. It is never too early to start – the quicker the letting agent has your documents in their hands, the better. To find out what to include in your application portfolio, check out our blog on applying for a rental property.
During a flat viewing: how to impress the landlord
A flat viewing is more than just a quick “does it look nice?”. In Switzerland, it often takes only a few minutes for a landlord or agent to decide whether you stand out in a positive way — especially at a group viewing. With these tips, you’ll make a great impression and also find out whether the flat really suits you.
First impression: you don’t need to dress up — but look presentable
You don’t have to be overdressed, but: clean, friendly and on time. A neat appearance looks professional and signals reliability — exactly what landlords are looking for.
Mini tip: A quick look in the mirror is enough. And put your phone on silent so you don’t seem distracted.
Even on the way: check the location like a pro
Before you even ring the bell, you can already spot important details: how easy it is to reach by car/public transport, what the parking situation looks like (Blue Zone, visitor spaces), and the surroundings (quiet or noisy? close to shops, schools, station). In cities like Zurich, Basel, Bern or Winterthur, this can make a big difference to daily life.
Inside the building: switch on detective mode
As soon as you enter the building, you’ll notice details no photo ever shows: what’s the stairwell like? does it feel well maintained? what’s the neighbourhood vibe? are there families living nearby? is there a lift?
During the conversation: introduce yourself clearly and ask the right questions
If the landlord or agent is present, introduce yourself straight away with your first and last name. Show interest and ask a few questions — but not too many. Sometimes, the current tenant leads the viewing, and your impression matters less. Even then, it’s still worth gathering key information.
The most important questions to ask at a flat viewing
Costs & contract
Are rent and service charges stable, or are changes expected?
What’s included in the service charges?
Are there specific rules (house rules, pets, subletting)?Technology & condition
How old is the heating system? Which energy source (gas, oil, district heating, heat pump)?
Does the extractor fan work properly?
Is there fibre-optic internet or other connections?
When was the flat last renovated?Space & everyday life
What is the actual net living area? Is space lost due to sloping ceilings or hallways?
How is the natural light (morning/evening sun)?
Is there a cellar, and is it dry?
Do you have a parking space or allocated spot?Kitchen & laundry
How well equipped is the kitchen?
Is there a washing machine and tumble dryer (in the flat or shared)?
If there’s a shared laundry room: how does the system work (schedule/time slots)?Safety
How secure are the windows and entrance doors?
Group viewings: stand out — without overdoing it
When there are lots of applicants, being active, friendly and confident matters. Approach the landlord or agent, start a short conversation and make it clear why the flat suits your needs. Don’t bring flowers or chocolates — bring reliability. Be honest and polite.
Important: you don’t have to answer every landlord question
Landlords may also ask questions — sometimes by phone or via a form. Be aware that some questions can be legally sensitive (e.g. health, family planning). You can find out which questions are allowed and which aren’t in this guide.
Final tip: create a compact viewing checklist
A lot happens during a viewing. With a short checklist (on your phone or printed), you won’t forget anything — and you’ll automatically come across as well organised.
After the visit
Comparing different properties that you have viewed is considerably easier using an evaluation sheet. It’s best to fill it in straight after the viewing. Once you have decided you want a flat, hand over your application portfolio immediately. If the landlord or letting agent carries out the viewing in person, then it is best to give your portfolio to them directly while you're still at the property. If that’s not the case, then you can send your portfolio via post or even deliver it straight to the letting agent yourself to get it there as quickly as possible.
