Why Most People Contact a Relocation Company Too Late
Many of our clients don’t contact us before they start looking for an apartment. They contact us after weeks or even months of searching on their own. By then, they’ve attended numerous viewings, submitted multiple applications and spent hours refreshing property portals without finding the right apartment. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone.
The typical apartment search journey
For many newcomers, the search follows a similar pattern:
Step 1: “We’ll find an apartment ourselves.”
Most people begin by browsing websites such as Homegate or Flatfox. At first, it seems like there are plenty of apartments available.
Step 2: “Why is everything so expensive?”
After applying a realistic commute, preferred neighborhoods and apartment size, many listings disappear. The apartments that remain are often significantly above budget. Many people only discover at this stage that Zurich’s rental market is much more competitive than expected.
Step 3: “Is this apartment furnished?”
This surprises many international applicants. In Switzerland, apartments are generally rented unfurnished. Even kitchens usually include fitted appliances, but furniture shown in the photos often belongs to the current tenant and is not included. Many newcomers arrange viewings expecting a furnished apartment, only to realize they would need to furnish the entire home themselves. Understanding what is and isn’t included can save considerable time during your search.
Step 4: “We found a great apartment.”
Then reality sets in. You attend the viewing together with many other interested applicants. Within a short period, the property manager may receive numerous applications.
Step 5: “We were rejected.”
You submit your application. Then you receive a short email saying another applicant has been selected. Most property managers do not explain why. Without feedback, it’s difficult to know what should be improved before the next application.
Step 6: “Maybe we’re doing something wrong.”
This is usually when people contact SwissNest Relocation. Not because they can’t search for apartments themselves, but because they want to understand the market, avoid repeating the same mistakes and approach their search with a clearer strategy.
Searching on your own can absolutely work
Many people successfully find an apartment without professional support. If you have a flexible budget, plenty of time, local knowledge and patience, searching independently may be the right choice.
When professional support becomes valuable
Professional support is often most valuable when:
You’re relocating from abroad.
You have limited time before starting work.
You’re unsure what budget is realistic.
You’ve already experienced several rejections.
You’re moving with children or pets.
You want guidance throughout the process instead of figuring everything out yourself.
At SwissNest Relocation, we don’t replace your apartment search. We help you search more strategically: That includes understanding the Zurich rental market, preparing a professional application, identifying suitable properties and avoiding common mistakes that cost applicants time and opportunities.
If you’re planning your move to Zurich or feel your apartment search isn’t progressing as expected, we’d be happy to discuss your situation and explain how we can support you. Contact us at hello@swissnest-relocation.ch or book an initial free 20 minute relocation consultation on swissnest.as.me
