Introduction
Your apartment viewing is a job interview in disguise. Swiss landlords aren’t just evaluating the property—they’re evaluating you. Cultural missteps that might seem minor can eliminate you from consideration before you even submit your application. Here’s how to navigate Zurich apartment viewings with Swiss cultural awareness and make the impression that gets you the keys.
📌 Key Facts: Swiss Viewing Culture
- Punctuality is non-negotiable – Arriving late eliminates you from consideration
- Group viewings common: expect 10-30 other candidates simultaneously
- Quiet professionalism valued over friendliness
- Landlords assess tidiness, seriousness, and cultural fit
- Best time to view: Tuesday-Thursday, 10am-2pm (shows flexibility)
What to Bring to an Apartment Viewing
Essential Documents
Even if application submission is later, bring a complete document folder:
| Document | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Swiss-format CV with photo | Shows serious preparation |
| Employment contract or pay slips | Proves income |
| Residence permit | Required documentation |
| Debt collection extract | Most important document |
| Rental payment certificate | Rental history proof |
| Reference letters | Character validation |
| Business cards | Professional touch |
Why bring everything to the viewing?
- Shows serious preparation
- Allows immediate application submission
- Distinguishes you from underprepared competitors
- Demonstrates Swiss cultural awareness
Personal Items
- Notepad and pen – Taking notes shows genuine interest
- Measuring tape – For furniture planning (standard practice)
- Camera/phone – Ask permission before photographing
- Questions list – Pre-prepared, thoughtful questions
What NOT to Bring
- ❌ Large groups of friends/family (1-2 people maximum)
- ❌ Young children (unless essential—arrange childcare if possible)
- ❌ Pets (even if property is pet-friendly)
- ❌ Casual attitude or overly casual dress
💡 Punctuality Matters
5 minutes early: Perfect—shows respect for landlord’s time
Exactly on time: Acceptable but doesn’t demonstrate Swiss punctuality
10+ minutes early: May inconvenience landlord
Any amount late: Disqualifying offense
Swiss Viewing Cultural Norms
Dress Professionally
Swiss culture values understatement and professionalism.
Appropriate:
- Business casual (collared shirt, clean pants/skirt, closed shoes)
- Neat, conservative appearance
- Minimal jewelry/accessories
- Well-groomed
Inappropriate:
- Athletic wear or jeans
- Flashy clothing or accessories
- Strong cologne/perfume
- Overly casual appearance
Respectful Behavior
- Remove shoes at entrance (unless landlord indicates otherwise)
- Greet with handshake and eye contact (firm but not aggressive)
- Speak quietly – Swiss culture values calm communication
- Don’t touch belongings if viewing occupied apartment
- Ask permission before opening cabinets, drawers, windows
- Turn off phone or keep on silent
Group Viewings: Stand Out Professionally
When 20 candidates attend simultaneously:
- Arrive early to get one-on-one time with landlord
- Ask 1-2 thoughtful questions (not generic ones everyone asks)
- Introduce yourself briefly if opportunity arises
- Don’t monopolize landlord’s time – respect other candidates
- Take notes visibly – shows serious consideration
Smart Questions to Ask
About the Apartment
- “When is the earliest move-in date?”
- “Are there any planned renovations in the building?”
- “What’s included in the Nebenkosten (ancillary costs)?”
- “Is there a waiting list for parking/storage?”
- “What’s the policy on minor modifications?”
About Building/Neighborhood
- “How is the noise level during evenings/weekends?”
- “What’s the trash/recycling schedule?”
- “Are there shared laundry facilities? What’s the reservation system?”
- “What’s the typical tenant demographic?”
- “How responsive is building management to maintenance requests?”
About Application Process
- “How many other applicants are you expecting?”
- “What’s your timeline for making a decision?”
- “Are there any additional documents you’d like to see?”
- “May I submit my application today?”
❌ Questions to Avoid (Red Flags)
- “Can I pay lower rent?” (Rent is fixed by regulation)
- “Can I sublet?” (Usually restricted)
- “Can I have parties?” (Implies disruptive behavior)
- “Is the landlord flexible on rules?” (Swiss value rule-following)
💡 Viewing Follow-Up
Submit your application immediately—ideally hand it over at the viewing. If not possible, submit within 24 hours with a professional thank-you email.
👉 Learn About Application Documents
Cultural Mistakes to Avoid
| ❌ Wrong | ✅ Right |
|---|---|
| Being overly friendly/informal | Maintain professional formality |
| Showing desperation | Maintain composure and professionalism |
| Criticizing the apartment | Save questions about issues for private follow-up |
| Bringing an entourage | Maximum 2 people (you + spouse/partner) |
| Being unprepared | Research property, neighborhood, bring all documents |
Professional Thank-You Email Template
Send within 2-3 hours of viewing:
Subject: Application for [Address] - [Your Full Name]
Dear [Landlord Name],
Thank you for taking the time to show me the apartment at [address] today. I’m very interested in the property and have attached my complete application documents.
[One specific positive note about the apartment or building]
I’m available for any questions and happy to provide additional information as needed.
Best regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Contact Information]
Typical Timeline
| Stage | Timing |
|---|---|
| Viewing | Day 0 |
| Application submission | Day 0-1 |
| Landlord review | Days 2-7 |
| Second viewing (sometimes) | Days 4-10 |
| Decision | Days 7-14 |
| Lease signing | Days 14-21 |
FAQ
Should I bring a gift for the landlord?
No. This isn’t Swiss custom and may seem like bribery. Professional documents and polite behavior are sufficient.
Can I negotiate rent at the viewing?
No. Swiss rent is regulated and not negotiable. Attempting to negotiate signals unfamiliarity with Swiss norms.
Should I mention I have pets?
If the listing says “no pets,” don’t waste anyone’s time. If it’s unclear, ask politely during viewing: “Is the apartment pet-friendly?” Don’t surprise landlords later.
How long should I spend at the viewing?
15-20 minutes is typical for group viewings. Individual viewings might last 30-40 minutes. Don’t overstay, but take adequate time to assess.
What if I notice problems during viewing?
Make mental notes for your decision-making, but don’t criticize during viewing. If serious concerns, ask neutral questions: “I noticed the window seal—is that scheduled for repair?”
Need Expert Support?
Navigating Swiss apartment viewings successfully requires cultural knowledge and professional presentation. Our Home Search service includes viewing accompaniment, cultural coaching, and professional representation to landlords—significantly increasing your approval chances.
Explore Home Search Services | Zurich Housing Guide | Schedule Consultation
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Kati Kägi is the Managing Owner of Prime Relocation with 18+ years of experience helping expats navigate Switzerland's complex relocation landscape.
