**If you want to buy a property in Zurich, you need more than just a good gut feeling - you need a clear overview of all the necessary documents. Whether for the financing, the transfer of ownership or the final purchase contract: you should have these documents to hand so that you don't lose any time.

To make sure you don't forget anything, we have divided the most important documents into four phases - including a PDF checklist at the end of the article.

1. Before you buy: you need these property documents

Even before you decide to buy a property, you should request the most important documents from the seller or estate agent. They will help you to correctly assess the location, condition and ownership situation.

Important documents before buying:

  • Excerpt from the land register - provides information about ownership, encumbrances, easements Cadastral or site plan - shows property boundaries and neighboring plots
  • Building permits / building plans** - Particularly relevant for conversions or new builds Energy certificate / heating type - For estimating ancillary costs Building insurance certificate - Often required for financing Living space calculation & cubature - Useful for purchase price comparisons Vouchers for renovations - Shows state of maintenance & investments


💡 Tip: Also ask for an exposé or sales dossier - this is the official sales documentation.


2. for financing: You need these documents for the bank

If you want to finance the property, the bank will require various documents - some digital, some original. A complete portfolio significantly speeds up the credit check.

Personal documents for the financing:

  • Pay slips for the last 3 months
  • Current tax return / tax assessment
  • Proof of own funds (e.g. bank statement, 3a pension certificate)
  • Budget overview & household statement
  • Valid identification (ID / passport)
  • Debt enforcement extract (not older than 3 months)

Property-related documents for the bank:

  • Sales documentation / exposé
  • Land register extract
  • Building description (for new buildings)
  • Plans / floor space details
  • Appraisal of the property (often prepared by the bank)


💡 Tip: Compile your documents digitally - many banks prefer PDF uploads in the customer center.


3. for the purchase contract: You need these documents at the notary

As soon as all the financing issues have been clarified, it's time for the purchase contract and notary appointment. These documents will be prepared by the notary - but you should check them or have them checked at an early stage.

For the purchase contract you need:

** Draft purchase contract (available for inspection at least 10 days before the appointment) ** Proof of identity of both parties ** Financing confirmation / proof of payment List of items included in the sale (e.g. kitchen, furniture)

  • Land register data & extract of ownership Registration of transfer of ownership at the land registry office AHV number (for reporting to tax authorities)


💡 Tip: Get advice from an independent professional (notary or lawyer) if you are unsure about the contract - especially in the case of co-ownership, communities of heirs or condominiums.


4th bonus: Download checklist as PDF


To help you keep track of all your documents, we have created a handy PDF checklist - ideal for ticking off or passing on to your financing partner or estate agent.



Conclusion

Buying real estate in Zurich is a structured process - and with the right documents, everything runs smoothly. Whether you're just starting to look around or you're about to go to the notary: with this overview, you'll be optimally prepared.


👉 PDF download: Document checklist for buying real estate in Zurich