Even privileged immigrants struggle

Until recently, they were viewed as a privileged minority in the housing market: foreign specialists desperately needed by companies, not just since a shortage of skilled workers. For these so-called expats, housing costs are usually a fixed part of their wages, or there are heavy rent subsidies for a mostly spacious apartment in a good location. But even this privileged group is finding it increasingly difficult to find accommodation.

Because the housing shortage in cities has increased so much that it now affects large companies that are dependent on foreign workers. It says “SonntagsZeitung”. Supporting expats in finding accommodation has become much more difficult for the Sulzer industrial group, “due to the lack of housing in the Zurich area in recent years,” a spokesperson said. Spokesperson Marc Estermann confirmed at technology company Siemens that finding an apartment for new employees in Switzerland is not easy due to the low vacancy rate. Commodity trader Glencore said it has become more difficult to find apartments in Zug and Zurich.

Expand your search radius

With a vacancy rate of 0.07 percent in the city of Zurich, it’s no wonder. There haven’t been so few vacant flats since 2011. The situation is similar in Bern (0.57 percent) or Basel. This is also felt by specialist placement agencies: “It may now take us two months to find an apartment. This may require ten or more views,” says Anja Hagenbuch of Anchor Relocation. The placement company is primarily looking for housing for large companies from various industries. Even privileged expats have to make concessions when looking for an apartment, especially when it comes to the location of their place of residence.

This means expanding the search radius and considering apartments outside the city centre. Many Swiss home seekers can tell you a thing or two about it for a long time. (co)

Source : Blick