The real estate market has suffered greatly from a shortage of supply in recent years. This is noticeable in the prices - they have risen sharply. The search for a suitable property can therefore take a little longer.

Anyone embarking on the search for a home of their own is likely to find that it presents some challenges. Fewer and fewer properties are being offered online, and anyone looking at an offer can assume that it will disappear from the market again shortly. However, the Swiss Homeowners' Association (HEV) has a few tips to make the search a success.

Turn on the alarm online

Today, the search for a suitable property usually takes place on Internet platforms. In doing so, one should also dare to use real estate platforms, which can be found on the second page of Google, advises the HEV.

Most brokerage platforms offer the possibility setoff setting up an alarm based on self-selected criteria. This is in case something suitable is offered. If a newly placed property meets the specified search criteria, the searcher usually receives a notification in the form of an e-mail. In order to be able to react quickly, one should prepare in advance. Many sellers require an application dossier, including a letter of motivation, and an extract from the debt collection register, similar to the search for rental housing. Even if this is not required, it gives a positive first impression of the prospective buyer. If the search extends over several months or even years, one should not forget to regularly renew the debt collection extract. A statement should not be older than three months, says the HEV.

Publicize the search among acquaintances

Anyone looking for a property should also make this known. The HEV uses the French proverb "Le bouche-à-oreille" here, and refers to the potential for success. In fact, quite a few properties are sold under the table, because for many owners the sale of their property is associated with strong emotions. Some do not necessarily want to sell their beloved property to an unknown third party. It is therefore worthwhile to tell as many friends and acquaintances as possible about the search for a home, advises the HEV. The possibility that you know someone in your circle of acquaintances, who knows someone who is looking to sell is rarely zero. If the contact person then recommends you, you have a good starting position.

Visit and assess the property yourself

Buying a house can also involve some dangers. The risk cannot be eliminated, but it can be reduced by taking certain precautions. According to HEV, this applies above all to new and old buildings. The advantage of an old building is that you can inspect it before buying. The HEV advises people to refrain from being polite or blindly trusting previous owners and to carry out a systematic assessment of the property yourself. The fact that one looks very closely also shows a serious interest in buying and should not be understood as a vote of no confidence.

The HEV also refers here to its guidebook "Real Estate Valuation - Basics and Methods for Real Estate Owners", which is aimed at people interested in housing without specific expertise.

Determine financing

If the search is successful and the price has been negotiated with the seller, the next step is to determine the financing. The HEV refers to its mortgage platform, where a suitable strategy can be selected for every possible interest rate development.