Renting an apartment is one of the most flexible lodging options in Switzerland. It gives you a lot more freedom with your time, plus you get to enjoy more privacy.
However, finding an apartment isn’t an easy feat in various ways. For starters, there may be scammers out there that seek nothing but to rob you of your money.
In this guide, we’ll run through various ways you can avoid rental scams in Switzerland. Follow these pieces of advice so you can secure a place with no worries:
Get in Touch With the Landlord
One of the biggest mistakes you can make is not checking details about the landlord. This includes doing a quick background check on them to verify important details.
No landlord would mind sharing personal information as long as it’s for renting purposes. In addition, you can also check out their online profiles to verify certain details.
If you want to rent an apartment complex, you may research the apartment administrator. This is a lot easier to do since a lot of rentals would have websites available.
Compare Prices of Similar Flats
Another thing you want to avoid is paying too much for your apartment. Renting a flat is already an expensive matter in Switzerland. You don’t want to spend more money if you can score space for less.
One way to do this is to compare the rent of similar flats. Make sure they have the same location, number of rooms, amenities, and inclusions.Â
Then, try to find the one that has the best value for your money. Note that it’s almost unlikely to score an affordable flat in Switzerland. You’d have to manage your expectations when it comes to monthly rent.
Know Your Rights as a Tenant
Never sign any contract agreement unless you’ve read the conditions of the contract. Look through your responsibilities as a tenant as well as the obligations of your landlord.
Don’t forget to read through the matters about deposits as well as conditions for termination. Read thoroughly and make sure that you don’t miss any important information.
If It’s Too Good to Be True, It Is
Yes, it’s possible to score a wonderful apartment with all the amenities you need. But trust your gut in the process too. If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Some of the most telling signs are fantastic, spacious spaces offered at such low prices. You may also be scammed by misleading descriptions and pictures.
Don’t Decide Out of the Blue
Choosing an apartment requires a great deal of planning and preparation. You can’t just jump into the most convenient option you see.
So, if you want to get the best value out of your money, take some time to decide. Reserve a few months just for apartment searching alone so you can score the best one for you.
Want to learn more about living in Switzerland as an international student? See our guide to apartment renting in Switzerland here at MSM Unify, overseas education consultancy.
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