Find out what Rent to Buy is and how it works

What is Rent to Buy?

Rent to Buy is an agreement that allows a person to rent a property with the option of buying it at a later date. During the rental period, part of the monthly rent paid can be set aside as a down payment for future purchase. This type of contract is particularly useful for people who want to buy a house but do not yet have the necessary capital.

Advantages of Lease to own

This solution offers numerous advantages, including:

• Reduced initial investment: You do not need to make a large initial outlay.
• Less financial pressure: Frees you from the worries of immediate financing.
• Immediate access: Allows you to move into the house immediately.
• Fixed price: The purchase price is locked in, allowing you to benefit from any future increases in property value.
• Flexibility: When the contract expires, you have the freedom to decide whether to proceed with the purchase.
• Stable rent: You can count on a constant rent, regardless of interest rate fluctuations.
• Competitive rent: The rent is often lower than that of a comparable property.

Costs associated with Rent to Buy

Costs may vary depending on the supplier, but generally include:

• Approximately 10% of the purchase price for the purchase option.
• Land registration fees.
• Monthly rent and maintenance costs.
• Various insurance premiums.

Minimum Requirements

To access this opportunity, the following requirements are usually required:

• An initial capital of 10%.
• No debts or foreclosures and regular income.
• Swiss citizenship or permanent residence.

The Rent to Buy Contract

The contract clearly states:

• The right to purchase registered in the land register.
• A fixed purchase price.
• A stable rent for the duration of the contract.
• The possibility of transferring the right to purchase.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Rent to Buy represents an innovative solution for those who wish to realise their dream of owning a home without having to face a high initial investment. Thanks to the possibility of renting a property with the option to buy, this formula offers numerous advantages, including economic flexibility, cost stability and the security of a fixed purchase price. We hope we have been helpful!

Your anfina

Creating Environments that Reflect Our Well-Being

Dear Readers

We are excited to share with you a topic of great topicality and importance: the power of interior spaces design in our daily lives and its impact on mental health. In recent decades, the connection between the physical environment and psychological well-being has captured the attention of scholars and practitioners alike. It is not just about aesthetics, but about designing environments that encourage relaxation, stimulate concentration and reduce stress. Elements such as colours, lighting, furniture arrangement, materials and acoustics play a crucial role in determining our mood and quality of life.

The Science Behind Design

A study published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology revealed that the quality of our physical environment is intimately linked to mental health. Factors such as natural lighting, colour choice and space layout can influence our mood and stress levels in surprising ways. This research adds to a growing body of studies highlighting how thoughtful and conscious design can help create healthier environments conducive to psychological well-being.

Colours and Psychology

Colours are more than just decorative details; they have a direct impact on our emotions. Warm colours such as red can stimulate energy, while cool shades such as blue and green convey calm. A case in point is that of a children’s hospital that revolutionised its rooms with pastel shades, achieving a significant reduction in anxiety in young patients.

Lighting and Mental Health

Natural lighting plays a key role in our psychological well-being. Well-lit environments can improve sleep and reduce stress. In a case study (in short: a qualitative research method that provides a deep, contextualised understanding of a specific phenomenon) on a modern office, the introduction of large windows and dimmable LED lights led to increased productivity and improved employee well-being.

Space Arrangement and Furniture

The layout of spaces profoundly influences our feeling of order and tranquillity. Well-organised rooms foster a perception of serenity, while cluttered spaces can amplify anxiety. Many schools, for example, have integrated outdoor study areas, improving students’ concentration and reducing stress levels.

Materials and Textures

The use of natural materials, such as wood and stone, contributes to a cosy and relaxing atmosphere. In one therapy centre, the use of soft textures and natural materials in the counselling rooms significantly improved the patient experience, leading to a reduction in anxiety.

Acoustics and Sound Comfort

An acoustically well-designed environment can promote relaxation and overall well-being. In a university library, the implementation of acoustic panels lowered stress levels and improved students’ ability to concentrate.

In Conclusion

The design of interior spaces goes beyond mere aesthetic taste; it is crucial to our mental health. Creating environments that promote tranquillity, productivity and personalisation not only enriches our quality of life, but is also a key investment in our long-term mental well-being.

We invite you to reflect on how your spaces can contribute to your well-being and embark on this journey towards healthier, more harmonious environments.

Your anfina

Present Value: definition and calculation methodologies

Dear Readers,

In this newsletter we will focus on a crucial topic for anyone interested in the property market: current value and how it is calculated.

What is Present Value?

The current value is an estimate of the value of a property at a specific point in time, taking into account various economic and market factors. This value can vary widely depending on location, market conditions and the specific characteristics of the property.

How is Present Value Calculated?

The calculation of present value can be done through several methods, including:

1. Comparative Market Method: This is one of the most common methods. It consists of comparing the property in question with similar properties recently sold in the same area. Factors such as square footage, number of rooms and general condition are considered to establish a reference value.
2. Income Capitalisation Valuation: Used mainly for investment properties, this method is based on the income generated by the property. The present value is calculated by considering future cash flows and the expected rate of return.
3. Cost Method: This method estimates the cost to rebuild the property from scratch, taking depreciability into account. It is often used for unique or specialised properties.
4. Economic Factor Analysis: Macroeconomic factors, such as property market trends, interest rates and government policies, also play a crucial role in determining the present value.

Why is it Important to Understand Current Value?

• Buying and Selling: Knowing the current value helps you make more informed offers and assess whether you are selling at a fair price.
• Investing: Investors can use present value to calculate the return on investment and make strategic decisions.
• Refinancing: If you are considering refinancing your mortgage, an accurate assessment of the current value of your property is crucial.

Conclusion

Whether you are a buyer, seller or investor, understanding the current value of properties is crucial to making informed decisions.
Remember that the property market is constantly evolving and keeping an eye on economic trends and local dynamics can make the difference between a profitable deal and a rash choice.

Your anfina

Comfort, sustainability and customised design

A closeness to nature, uniqueness, individuality and personal well-being are the key concepts for the Interior design trends in 2025.

We analyse the trends of the new year:

Sustainability

The core principle of design in 2025: sustainability. The use of natural and recycled materials is at the centre of the new collections: Certified wood, local stone, as well as bamboo and cork.

Emerging bio-based materials such as vegan leather made from cacti or mycelium (mushrooms) redefine the concept of eco-friendly luxury.

Comfort and well-being

In 2025, interior design that promotes mental and physical health will be favoured. With soft lines, soft, enveloping materials, open spaces and the concept of the home spa, which is increasingly becoming the norm, the home will become a place where well-being and comfort are seamlessly combined.

Japandi style

Japandi style, a fusion of Japanese aesthetics and Scandinavian functionality, is one of the most important trends of 2025: a relaxing atmosphere in which cosy and functional minimalism conveys a sense of calm and order.

The colour palette is characterised by natural tones such as beige, olive green and terracotta, combined with authentic materials such as light wood and raw fabrics.

Smart homes

Invisible technology plays a key role: integrated home automation systems, retractable televisions and smart mirrors make the home more functional without compromising on aesthetics. These aids not only improve the quality of life, but are also a step towards futuristic and intuitive design.

Maximalism

Maximalism celebrates individuality and is an expression of personality with an explosion of patterns, colours and textures. With bold combinations of upholstery fabrics and accessories.

Vintage and craftsmanship

The fascination with the past continues unabated and grows over the years: vintage accessories and furniture, reinterpreted with modern details, reflect the growing desire for authenticity and uniqueness in a globalised world.

Traditional materials such as stained glass, marble and solid wood are combined with contemporary design and lend character and uniqueness.

Big news

When it comes to mental and physical well-being, anfina has an exclusive novelty for you: three luxury flats surrounded by nature, whose style beautifully integrates all the above-mentioned design trends of 2025:

Madrisa
5.5-room flat with a net living area of 181 m² and a 126 m² terrace.
Parsen
4.5-room flat on the upper floor with a net living area of 147 m² and a 72 m² sun terrace.
Pischa
3.5-room penthouse flat with a net living area of 113 m² and a 140 m² roof terrace with breathtaking views.

The three magnificent options are equipped with an outdoor jacuzzi, a sauna and an indoor wellness shower, and an interior design that combines elegance and comfort in a mythical way.
Waking up every morning surrounded by nature, with the mountains rising majestically on the horizon, sunlight streaming through the large windows and all the comforts for your well-being is the right choice. You too can opt for this uniqueness.
Please contact us for further information.

anfina

Samichlaus and Schmutzli: the magic and lessons of Swiss Christmas

St Nicholas of Myra

It smells like Christmas, the fairy lights are shining, presents are being wrapped and gingerbread houses are being decorated. All of this brings us back to the magic that captivates children at this time of year. And who better to embody this magic than Santa Claus.
The figure that has inspired generations of Swiss people, Samichlaus, goes back to the cult of St Nicholas of Myra, a bishop from the 4th century. His generosity inspired the tradition of giving gifts to children at Christmas.

The dark alter ego and duality

But not all children only receive sweets and presents. If a child has been naughty, the Schmutzli, the saint’s dark alter ego, comes and punishes the children by bringing coal.
The figure of Samichlaus and his helper Schmutzli, with their duality of reward and punishment, represents an interesting dynamic in the context of Christmas.
In many cultures, these figures have evolved over time, but their characteristic traits have remained the same. For example, Père Fouettard in France and Knecht Ruprecht in Germany, similar to Schmutzli, play a supervisory role, while Krampus in Austria is a kind of warning for children who misbehave. Although these traditions are different, they have a common goal: to teach children the value of kindness and good deeds through stories and folklore.

Conclusions and best wishes

At this time of year, it is good to remember that besides material gifts, the most valuable gifts are those of love, understanding and sharing. Whether through the figure of Samichlaus, Schmutzli or other traditions, the main message remains the same: Christmas invites us to become better, to care for others and to celebrate life together.
anfina wishes you a Christmas full of joy and reflection. Best wishes!

Your anfina

Here are some advantages that will convince you to use an real estate agent.

Most people think that the selling decision alone is the hardest part, but if you have little or no experience in this area, selling a property could be a daunting task.
For this very reason, it’s definitely not a bad idea to hire a real estate agent to help you.

The advantages

The advantages of a real estate agent are:

• Realistic assessment of the property value

Due to their expertise, market knowledge and experience, the estate agent recognises the strengths of the property and is able to provide an accurate estimate.
The emotionally attached seller often tends to overvalue the property. This leads to longer lead times and sets an unfavourable sales mechanism in motion.

• Negotiating skills

When large sums of money are involved, negotiation is the basis of every sale. A real estate agent has the necessary experience and can successfully mediate between both parties.

• Preparation of material for publication

Professional photos, videos, appealing sales documentation and optimised sales advertising are worth their weight in gold. With the support of industry specialists, you are on the safe side.

• Organisation of viewings

Organising and coordinating appointments can take more time than you think.
To avoid raising false expectations and wasting valuable time, it is a good idea to make initial contact with prospective buyers by telephone or e-mail. This allows the most important questions to be answered in advance, any misunderstandings to be cleared up and requirements to be clarified. If there is further interest, viewing appointments can be arranged immediately afterwards. All of this costs energy and time and, as we know, time is money.

Beware of dishonest real estate agents

There is a lot to be said in favour of hiring an estate agent, but you have to be careful not to fall into the wrong hands. The aim of dishonest estate agents is exclusively to sell, whatever the cost. So be careful, the commission for the sale of a property should not be higher than 2-3% and should be recorded in writing. Including the description of the sales process with detailed advice, support, sales documents, right up to the accompanied official public notarisation.

Do you want to sell your property quickly and easily?

Are you looking for a reliable real estate agency to whom you can entrust the sale of your property without any problems?

We are pleased to introduce you to anfina with its numerous services, competent team, central location and all its attractive offers.

Contact us :

SW: www.anfina.ch
E: info- anfina.ch

The ideal “To-do list” for an easier move

Moving house brings with it many emotions: anticipation of the new home, sadness about the one you’re leaving. Impatience and joy about the new adventure, but above all frenzy about the countless things you can do!

The stress and tension in the days leading up to the move can cause you to forget things, and what better way to do that than with a list to help you focus on the tasks at hand.

Our “To do list”

We hope that our To-do list will also be of use to you:

Packing/clearing out

Over the years, a lot of things accumulate in our home. So as soon as we are sure that we will be moving soon, we should not hesitate, but start packing immediately. Whenever there is time, tidy up and throw away things that are no longer needed or give them away.

Babysitter/petsitter

If you have children or pets, make an appointment with a babysitter or pet sitter for the day of the move so that you can work more efficiently on that day.

Final cleaning

Final cleaning is important. If you want to make sure you don’t miss anything and leave the flat as you found it, you can hire a cleaning company. If this may not be within your budget or you would prefer to do it yourself, don’t forget to thoroughly clean the cellar and balcony as well.
After cleaning the appliances (oven, fridge, freezer, dishwasher and washing machine), leave the relevant instructions for use.

Walls/holes

All dowel holes in the walls must be filled again when you hand over the flat or house on moving out. All you need for this is a little filler, which can be quickly obtained from a DIY store.

Division of tasks

Plan the move in advance and organise the valuable helpers as well as possible so that the time can be used optimally.

Organisation

Label your removal boxes as precisely as possible and mark all items accurately so that everyone knows what needs to be done and where it should be put without much further explanation. Please label fragile goods accordingly.

Keys and name tags

Collect all keys to the house, attic, cellar and night keys (possibly also laundry room keys etc.) and remove the name tags from the doorbell, letterbox and front door.

One last look at the house

When everything is empty and clean, go through the house again and make a note of all the gas, water and electricity meter readings, as well as any damage you have caused.

Move over

Finally the day has come, you have already been able to hand over your old flat and can now just take a deep breath and enter your wonderful new home!

Ps: If you are still in the process of selling or looking for a property, rely on experts like us, you won’t regret it!

Fill in the form. We accompany you from the definition of your destination to the final destination!

Your anfina

A day together in Schaffhausen

Wouldn’t it be perfect to spend a day together in one of Switzerland’s most characteristic cities in our September newsletter?

We’re talking about Schaffhausen, a perfect combination of history and innovation that will impress even the most discerning tourist.

Where is Schaffhausen located?

Schaffhausen is located at the northernmost tip of Switzerland and is bathed by the waters of the Rhine. The interruption of the water at the imposing Schaffhausen Rhine Falls, which are located directly in front of the town centre, made the town an important trading post and supply base in the past.
We hope you enjoy this tour.

Our tour

Let’s start the day with a coffee in the lively old town, which immediately gives us an insight into its history with its countless ‘arched windows’ typical of Anglo-Saxon architecture and splendidly painted façades.

Of particular interest is one of the most magnificent houses in Schaffhausen’s old town, the Haus zum goldenen Ochsen (House of the Golden Ox), where details of the eponymous golden ox and other war scenes from Babylonian history and Greek antiquity can be seen.After breakfast, you can take a walk through the Vordergasse to admire the city’s real landmark: the Munot fortress.

After breakfast, you can take a walk through the Vordergasse and admire the city’s real landmark: the Munot fortress.

It was not only built to secure the town, but also to create an architectural work that represents it and does not go unnoticed. The fortress has stood in Schaffhausen for more than four centuries.Important festivals are celebrated here, especially in summer with balls and historical performances, accompanied by the inevitable sparkling fireworks.

The ringing of the bells at 9 pm, which once signalled the closing of the city gates and hotels, is characteristic.

The tour continues through the streets of the centre with its historic scent and prestigious architecture. The harmonious fusion of Gothic and Romanticism leads to the largest cloister in Switzerland: the All Saints’ Monastery, which housed a Benedictine community in the XII century. It was home to a Benedictine community in the XII century.

As with any excursion worth its salt, a breath of fresh air in the midst of nature is a must. We therefore recommend: a cycling or hiking tour through the magnificent views of the Blauburgund vineyards and the majestic Swiss Alps, or a Untersee-Rhine boat trip, which connects Schaffhausen with Kreuzlingen and stretches for almost 50 kilometres. If you prefer something a little shorter, a boat trip brings you closer to the impressive waterfalls, goosebumps included.

In the afternoon…

In the afternoon, the Rhine Falls Adventure Park with its more than 165 climbing elements is recommended for adventure-seekers. Over 1.5 kilometres of cable car experiences await you. On the ‘Panorama Express’ and ‘Panorama’ cable cars in particular, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Rhine Falls!

For those who want to take it a little easier, we recommend a tour of Switzerland: you may be wondering how such an extensive tour can be completed in just one afternoon? The modern miniature world of Smilestones helps us with this activity, showing some of Switzerland’s most famous landmarks, such as the Alpstein region, the Bernese Oberland and much more. The modelled landscape resembles a three-dimensional hidden object picture with cityscapes, forests, vineyards, castles and offers many small scenes and fun details to discover.

To the end…

We are located in the lively and dynamic Rhyfall Village, which offers all amenities: Shops, fitness centre, beauty shops, supermarkets, restaurants and street food.
And after a pleasant stroll through this little ‘town’, we reach the RIVI Skyfall: 17 floors, 136 metres above the Rhine Falls. The RIVI Roof Bar and restaurant are located directly on the top floor.

An immersion of the senses thanks to the breathtaking view of Schaffhausen, Neuhausen, the Rhine Falls, the Swiss Plateau and the Alps as well as the exclusive, high-quality cuisine.
This is where we end our day together. An enchanting day, in our opinion, with intoxicating impressions and everything we need to think of just one thing: If it is as Alec Waugh says, ‘you can fall in love with a place as well as a person at first sight’… then we are in love.

The icing on the cake

And how do you feel? Not quite convinced yet? Wait until you see our property offer: a 4.5-room flat (123 m2) in the impressive RhyfallTower. Isn’t that the icing on the cake?

For further information, please do not hesitate to contact us and we will be happy to send you all the property documents.

Your anfina

On 1 August, the national anthem is sung and played all over the country.

The Swiss Psalm ‘Tritts im Morgenrot daher’ is one of the very few national anthems that calls on its citizens to pray. This privilege of gathering together to pray for the protection and blessing of the people and the fatherland is unique.

The origin of the Swiss Psalm

The origin of the Swiss Psalm is probably only known to a few Swiss people. The history of its creation takes us back to the years before the founding of our federal state in 1848. The Swiss Psalm was not commissioned by the government, nor was there a national commission of experts.

The most important and most beautiful things are rarely created by the state, but mostly on the private initiative of active people from among the people. The lyrics and melody of our current national anthem are the joint work of two men who could not have been more different: The Uri Catholic Father Alberik Zwyssig and the Zurich Reformed Leonhard Widmer. The two men share a great love of singing and music. This led to a friendship and collaboration that transcended all social and denominational differences.

As is so often the case, music had a unifying effect. In the summer of 1841, Widmer sent his musical friend the patriotic song text to set to music.

It is no longer possible to determine exactly how Widmer and Zwyssig agreed on the notes and text. The resulting Swiss Psalm was premiered on 22 November 1841 in the patrician house Hof St. Karl, Salesianum in Zug. Father Alberik Zwyssig lived in Oberwil from 1841 to 1846 after the abolition of the monastery in Wettingen.

In 1961, the Federal Council decided that the Swiss Psalm would be the new official national anthem. In 1981, after a trial period, the Swiss Psalm finally became the national anthem. The fact that this anthem, in contrast to the somewhat martial old national anthem ‘Rufst Du mein Vaterland’, does not glorify violence and feats of arms, but rather the love of God, homeland and natural beauty, was particularly appreciated. Switzerland has a national anthem with a distinctly sacred, choral character, which has even been included in church hymnals.

Isn’t it remarkable and cause for celebration that our Switzerland also deviates from the norm in this respect?
The whole anfina team wishes you all a happy 1st August and sings along loudly:

You come in the dawn,
I see you in the sea of rays,
You, you exalted, marvellous one!
When the Alpine firn reddens,
Pray, free Swiss, pray!
Your pious soul suspects
Your pious soul knows
God in the honourable fatherland,
God, the Lord, in the honourable fatherland.

anfina

The speculative bubble to take into account if you want to sell or buy property.

Let us first introduce a simple and clear definition of the term property bubble.
A real estate bubble is nothing more than an often cyclical phenomenon characterised by a rapid increase in prices to an unsustainable level relative to average income or other economic parameters.

In a balanced market, the price of a given asset is determined by supply and demand.

However, if the supply is insufficient to satisfy a constantly increasing demand, an imbalance occurs.

Put simply, the asset becomes scarcer and the demand proportionally higher, which leads to a price increase. As a result, the price of real estate no longer corresponds to its value, creating a ‘bubble’ in the sector in question and thus a gap between the real value of the property and the price at which it is offered on the market.

Market analysis of the UBS Swiss Real Estate Bubble Index

UBS Swiss Real Estate Bubble Index articles on real estate market price developments and the risk of property bubbles:

“The UBS Swiss Real Estate Bubble Index continued its decline in the first quarter of 2024 and now stands at 0.95 index points. The risk of a property bubble has thus fallen from “elevated” to “moderate.”

This means the benchmark is significantly lower than during the real estate bubble in the early 1990s. 

However, the analysis shows that bubble risk remains high from the perspective of fundamental factors rents and income.

However, the risk of overheating has decreased as a result of weaker price momentum. Falling interest rates and the only moderate level of relative usage costs speak against a price correction.

Overall low and further declining borrowing and new construction also clearly speak against a price bubble.”

How the real estate bubble is calculated by UBS economists

The UBS Swiss Real Estate Bubble Index shows the risk of a possible property bubble in the Swiss market.

To calculate the Bubble Index, UBS economists use a model with several factors: price-to-rent and price-to-income ratios (fundamentals), 3- and 10-year real price change rates (dynamics), purchase-to-rent comparisons (costs) and mortgage-to-income volume and net additions to the portfolio (context).
Based on present value, real estate bubble risk is divided into the following four categories: Acute (above 2), High (between 1 and 2), Moderate (between 0 and 1) and Low (below 0).

For further updates, UBS Banck constantly monitors real estate market trends, information on the latter can be found on their website.

Although the market is experiencing some tension, we can reassure you that the slowdown in interest rates and continued demand are calming the waters of a real estate storm. This is a very good point for those who want to sell or buy their home.

Your anfina team

What is a Hypothecas, what are the situations in which it applies and which is best?

Some people are familiar with the subject, others have never needed to delve into it. For the latter, we would like to explain in a few words what a mortgage is.

In most cases, in order to purchase a property, equity capital is not sufficient and it is therefore necessary to resort to a so-called loan or mortgage – more commonly known as a Hypothecas. For the lender – usually a bank – the security is a lien on the property purchased.

To obtain a Hypothecas and finance the purchase of a house or flat, you must have equity of at least 20%.

As a rule, 33 % of gross income is required to cover the total costs of the property. The annual costs for financing a property consist of:

–Mortgage interest, calculated at 5 % of the mortgage loan, to secure the financing even if interest rates rise;

–Depreciation (repayment) of the second Hypothecas;

–Accessory costs of 1 % of the purchase price (for each year).

Before buying a house, it is a good idea to check the sustainability of the financing.

Types of hypothecation

There is no single Hypothecas; on the contrary, there are numerous mortgage models that differ in their conditions.
When taking out a Hypothecas, we recommend that you discuss your financial situation and available options with a financing expert. In this way, you will be able to find the Hypothecas that best finances the home you want.

Fixed-rate Hypothecas

A fixed-rate Hypothecas usually has a duration of two to 15 years with a fixed mortgage rate and a fixed amount. In this way, you can protect yourself against rising interest rates and plan your budget more easily.
As part of the fixed-rate mortgage, some lenders also offer the possibility of fixing the mortgage rate in advance, up to three years before a new Hypothecas is granted or an existing mortgage is extended.

Variable-rate Hypothecas

Unlike fixed-rate Hypothecas, variable-rate Hypothecas – as the name suggests – have a variable interest rate and adapt to market conditions. Their advantage is that they do not have a fixed duration or a fixed interest rate.

SARON or money market Hypothecas

Money market Hypothecas also offer a variable interest rate. But not just any interest rate, but the SARON. SARON is an abbreviation of Swiss Average Rate Overnight and is a reference rate for the Swiss franc on the SIX Swiss Exchange, which is closely based on the official Swiss National Bank guide rate.
The interest rate in the case of a SARON Hypothecas is composed of an interest rate linked to the reference rate and an individual creditor surcharge. The interest rate is usually communicated retroactively at the end of the settlement period of one to three months. The term is one, two or three years.
SARON Hypothecas are particularly suitable when money market interest rates are expected to fall. However, if interest rates rise, mortgage costs will be high.
These are suitable for those who wish to know the mortgage interest at the beginning of the tranche.

We hope that this brief explanation has been helpful and invite you, should you have any questions on any real estate topics, to contact us, we will be happy to discuss the topic further in our ‘ImmoTipps’ section.

Your anfina team

IMD WORLD COMPETITIVENESS CENTER-Ranking of 142 cities

Since 2019, the IMD Global Competitiveness Centre has compiled an annual Smart City Index, which offers a balanced focus on the economic and technological aspects of smart cities on the one hand and the “human dimensions” (quality of life, environment and inclusion) on the other.

The team consists of: Arturo Bris, Professor of Finance and Director of the IMD World Competitiveness Centre – Ilrundo di Lanvin, President of the Smart City Observatory at IMD – Christos Cabolis, Professor of Economics and Competitiveness and Chief Economist and Head of Operations at the IMD World Competitiveness Center. José Caballero Senior Economist – Marco Pistis Specialist Researcher and Maryam Zargari Specialist Researcher, who, with the statements of the citizens surveyed, the data collected in the cities and various partners, provide us with a ranking of no fewer than 142 cities worldwide for comparison.

A look at the comparative methodology used

The IMD website also gives us an insight into the methodology used and summarises the 7 most important steps.

1) The IMD Smart City Index 2024 assesses residents’ perceptions of the facilities and technology applications available to them in their city.

2) In this edition of the SCI, 142 cities worldwide are ranked by capturing the perceptions of 120 residents in each city. The final score for each city is calculated using the perceptions from the last three years of the survey, with a weighting of 3:2:1 for 2024:2023:2021.

3) There are two pillars for which residents’ perceptions are surveyed: the Facilities pillar, which refers to the cities’ existing infrastructure, and the Technology pillar, which describes the technological offerings and services available to residents.

4) Each pillar is assessed in five key areas: Health and Safety, Mobility, Activities, Opportunities and Governance.

5) Cities are categorised into four groups based on the Human Development Index (HDI) of the Global Data Lab to which they belong.

6) Within each HDI group, cities are assigned a “rating scale” (AAA to D) based on the perceived value of a particular city compared to the values of all other cities within the same group. For Group 1 (highest HDI quartile), scale AAA-AA-BBB. For group 2 (second HDI quartile), scale A-BBB-B- CCC. For group 3 (third HDI quartile), scale BB-B-C-C. For group 4 (lowest HDI quartile), scale CCC-C-D.

7) The rankings are then presented in two formats:

• an overall score (1 to 142)
• a score for each pillar and overall

The ranking

Now you may be wondering who is on the podium.

As always, our beloved Zurich does not disappoint and takes first place for the fourth year in a row. Followed by Oslo and Canberra.

Let’s now analyse the percentages of the individual subjects.

Zürich

Oslo

Canberra

You can find more facts and figures at: https://www.imd.org/smart-city-observatory/home/rankings/#_tab_Rank

From this we can conclude that: Whether you are looking for a primary residence, a capital investment or a commercial property project, Zurich is the place for you and anfina real estate agency is always ready to provide you with the right offers in the city!

Ihr anfina-Team

Today all of our beloved Zurich celebrates spring with the traditional Sechseläuten festival.

This festival dates back to the Middle Ages and at that time celebrated the first day of summer working hours. During the winter semester, working hours in all workshops lasted until sunset, but during the summer semester (i.e. starting on the Monday following the spring equinox), the law stipulated that work had to cease when the church bells rang at six o’clock in the afternoon. It is no coincidence that the word Sechseläuten in Swiss German literally translates as ‘The ringing of the bells at six o’clock’.

The festivities used to take place on the Monday following the spring equinox, now keeping with the traction it is held on the third Monday in April.

The evolution of tradition

The star of the festival has always been a wonderful parade and accompanying Böögg, the snowman symbolising the winter that has passed.

The tradition of burning the Böögg predates the Sechseläuten, as what is now a snowman used to be a masked character who played tricks and frightened children during carnival, usually representing some disaster such as influenza.

It was only in 1892 that the guilds decided to burn the effigy, which no longer represented a disaster but winter, which is why it now resembles a snowman. The Parade and the burning of the Bögg was officially introduced in 1902.

The real stars of the festival

Today, around 3,500 guild members in costumes, typical costumes and uniforms take part in the big Sechseläuten parade. In addition, there are also 350 horsemen and 50 exclusively horse-drawn carts. 30 marching bands brighten up the atmosphere.

But that’s not all, because each year, around 2,000 to 3,000 children participate in the parade, who do not have to belong to any guild to take part in the event. During the parade, they wear typical or historical costumes and are accompanied by around 800 musicians.

Since 1991, Sechseläuten has hosted a canton, which presents its specialities on the Lindenhof. Usually, politicians from that canton attend the parade as guests of honour.

In short, a festival not to be missed! Happy Sechseläuten!

Your anfina team

-anfinaNewsletter2024-

The real estate market in Switzerland

Dear Readers,
Today we will take a look at the development of the real estate market and how it affects house and flat prices on average.
The RealAdvisor source reports that:
“Real estate prices in Switzerland have increased by 1.1% over the past 12 months. The graph below shows the evolution of real estate prices over the last 24 years. Over the past 20 years, prices per m² for houses and flats have increased by 84.9%.

Average Real Estate Price in Switzerland

• The average price for houses currently on the market is CHF 1,190,000.
• The asking price for 80% of the properties is between CHF 462,000 and CHF 2,950,000.
• The average price per m² in Switzerland is CHF 7,473/ m² (price per square metre).

Real estate market development paints cantons.

Among the red areas with a substantial increase in real estate market prices we find: in first place the canton of Zug, followed immediately by the canton of Geneva

See the differences:

Canton of Zug

Real estate prices in the canton of Zug have risen by 3.6% over the past 12 months.
Over the past 20 years, prices per m² for houses and flats have increased by 140.7%.

For houses
The average price for houses currently on the market is CHF 2,800,000.
The average price per m² in the Canton of Zug is CHF 15,070/m².
For flats
The average price for flats currently on the market is CHF 1,735,000.
The average price per m² in the Canton of Zug is CHF 15,231/ m² (price per square metre)

Canton of Geneva

Real estate prices in the canton of Geneva have risen by 0.2% over the past 12 months
Over the past 20 years, prices per m² for houses and flats have increased by 122.4%.

For houses
The average price for houses currently on the market is CHF 2,490,000.
The average price per m² in the Canton of Geneva is CHF 13,550/ m² (price per square metre)
For flats
The average price for flats currently on the market is CHF 1,580,000
The average price per m² in the Canton of Geneva is CHF 13,615/ m² (price per square metre).

Jura Canton paints itself green

Real estate prices in the canton of Jura have risen by 0.5% over the past 12 months.
Over the past 20 years, prices per m² for houses and flats have increased by 59.5%.

For houses
the average price for houses currently on the market is CHF 650,000.
The average price per m² in the Canton of Jura is CHF 3,873 per m² (price per square metre).
For flats
The average price for flats currently on the market is CHF 490,000.
The average price per m² in the canton of Jura is CHF 4,458/ m² (price per square metre).

The canton of Solothurn follows

Real estate prices in the canton of Solothurn have increased by 0.9% over the past 12 months.
Over the past 20 years, prices per m² for houses and flats have increased by 59.6%.

For houses
The average price for houses currently on the market is CHF 959,000.
The average price per m² in the Canton of Solothurn is CHF 5,925 per m² (price per square metre).
For flats
The average price for flats currently on the market is CHF 635,000.
The average price per m² in the Canton of Solothurn is CHF 5,768/ m² (price per square metre).

Last among the green flags is the canton of Glarus

Real estate prices in the canton of Glarus have risen by 1.7% over the past 12 months. Over the past 20 years, house and flat prices per m² have increased by 79.5%.

For houses
The average price for houses currently on the market is CHF 692,500.
The average price per m² in the Canton of Glarus is CHF 5,061/ m² (price per square metre).
For flats
The average price for flats currently on the market is CHF 680,000
average price per m² in the canton of Glarus is CHF 6,780/ m²

But let’s take a look at how our beloved canton of Zurich H4 has responded to the market

Real estate prices in the Canton of Zurich have risen by 1.1% over the past 12 months.
Over the past 20 years, prices per m² for houses and flats have increased by 100.3%.

For houses
The average price for houses currently on the market is CHF 1,590,000.
The average price per m² in the Canton of Zurich is CHF 10,150 per m² (price per square metre).
For flats
The average price for flats currently on the market is CHF 1,190,000.
The average price per m² in the Canton of Zurich is CHF 10,352/ m² (price per square metre).

We can say that the Canton of Zurich is coloured yellow.

Your anfina-Team

-anfinaNewsletter2024-

Dear readers,

According to numerology, in 2024, the number eight as a sum of squares attracts everything we think of negatively and positively, and we at anfina have been thinking nothing but positive things right from the start.

And the good news is just around the corner:

Our top jewel has been advertised in Europe’s most important property magazine, BELLEVUE!

An irresistible offer for a modern, luxurious penthouse flat in the heart of southern Germany, an idyllic view that relaxes body and mind and that you can enjoy in peace and quiet without having to get up from the sofa.

Let’s see if we can inspire you:

• Living and dining room with cosy fireplace and practical cooking island
• Large terrace with mini biotope and automatic fresh water supply
• Automatic, weather-resistant blinds
• ….

Are you interested?

Read more

Let’s move on, because there is still a lot of new, attractive offers for private individuals and entrepreneurs who want to invest in property.

Flats in prime locations, penthouses with marvellous views, condominiums in sought-after Zurich business locations and trouvailles that have retained the elegance of times gone by.

Hurry up and take a look at our offers.

Now is the right time to utilise the services of anfina.

We are sure that we also have a solution for you that will optimally complement your future projects. Contact us and let us discuss your needs, we are ready and here for you.

Your anfina team

-anfinaNewsletter 2024-

anfina offers you a wide range of properties to live in or rent out for the most diverse needs in life. We can guarantee an efficient and professional sales process for the buyer and the seller in order to make both parties happy.

You will find the following properties in our offer:

Dreamlike lake view flats in Ticino, such as this one overlooking Lake Lugano, whose crystal-clear waters revitalise the spirit and the senses.

Tempting second homes in the sunny south of Switzerland and in favoured locations that offer relaxation and remain centrally connected to public transport.

Further north through the Italian-influenced canton, you reach the enchanting city of Bellinzona.

The modern Violet Sky residence, which was built and furnished according to the concept of feng shui, is located in a central residential area, not far from the city centre and the main railway station.

The property offers, among other things, a 3.5-room flat with a garden that leads from the living area to the outside and flanks one side of the house (see photo above left).

The large window fronts lend the rooms light and harmony.

Despite its proximity to the city centre, there is no lack of naturalness, thanks to the old vineyards that enrich the area and make the view incomparable.

Now to a true dream property:

The modern and elegant 5-room penthouse flat with 151 m2 of living space in southern Germany has a spacious terrace of 70 m2 and fantastic views over Lake Constance.

The penthouse flat is furnished with carefully selected designer furniture, which will be included in a successful sale.

The flat can be reached directly by lift from the underground car park. Click here to watch the video and see this unique luxury property for yourself

We offer you a highly professional buying and selling process and support you with all financing and furnishing issues. Here are a few references from our past property projects.

The most recent property that we successfully managed was a 4.5-room flat in Zurich, also generously proportioned, with a beautiful balcony and fireplace. To make the flat even more attractive and increase its rental value, the Swiss Creative Company (based in Rümlang ZH) furnished all the rooms with high-quality furniture and made the ambience even more homely.

The flat was rented from a large international property company. With the owner’s agreement, we were able to conclude a long-term contract with this agency. We were therefore able to satisfy all parties with this deal and are delighted with this success.

But that’s not all. anfina also thinks about major investors and that’s why you will find a hidden section on our website (under exclusive properties) where you will find great offers.

Please do not hesitate to contact us by phone or send us an e-mail to

[email protected]

Follow us on Instagram for our #ImmoTips and we will be happy to answer your questions.

Your anfina team

–ImmoTipps–

First chapter

Good morning everyone,

We are launching the new ImmoTIPPS section on property.
The first topic we’re going to talk about is a basic but definitely broad one, so we’ve tried to focus on a few key elements in the hope of getting some food for thought and questions. :

“The sale of property by private individuals”.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us, we will be happy to help.

Click here for more information

We wish you a great day and lots of fun!

Your anfina Team

-anfina for everyone-

A fantastic new project.

fina is preparing a new video podcast format aimed at an audience that enjoys property and financial topics.

With pointed video sequences, we will deal with questions that concern everyone who wants to buy, sell, finance or rent a property, also according to your wishes.

We are aware of the challenges that you, as a busy entrepreneur, busy family, mother, father and partner, or self-employed person, have to go through in order to successfully realise a property project.

Which is why we would like to point out a few essential points for good and stress-free success.

Let’s listen to the words of the FOUNDER & OWNER, CEO – Alain

We are happy to listen to your questions and give you tips on the topics you require.
Get in touch with us!

#anfinaforeveryone

Your anfina Team

Swiss National Day

Best wishes to our beautiful and beloved Switzerland

To send sincere congratulations to our beloved Switzerland, we decide to retrace the motivation for our celebrations. In just a few lines, we want to give an insight into the long years that have created a piece of Swiss history.

So let’s delve a little into the past, back to the year 1291 to be precise.

That was when the Federalism Pact was signed. A pact in which the canons of Uri, Unterwalden and Schwyz solemnly promised each other mutual support. Legend has it that the representatives of the three founding cantons, the “Three Confederates”, swore on the meadows of the Rütli above Lake Lucerne to liberate the country from the Habsburgs.

It was not until much later, when the 1993 referendum commemorated this alliance, that this date was officially recognised as a day of celebration throughout Switzerland.

But now for some interesting facts about the Swiss flag:

The origin of the red flag with the white cross goes back to the Battle of Laupen in the canton of Bern in 1339. To distinguish themselves from the other combatants on the battlefield, the Swiss soldiers sewed a white cross onto their chain mail, and later the cross also appeared on the weapons and flags of the Swiss soldiers.

…But that’s not all…

The choice of the Swiss flag was not so simple. During the Helvetic Republic (1798-1803), Napoleon Bonaparte decreed a green, red and yellow tricolour for Switzerland, which became the country’s first national flag. Immediately after the collapse of the Helvetic Republic, the tricolour flag was also abandoned.

The flag of the Swiss Confederation in its current form was created in 1840. Historians disagree on the reason for the choice of red as the background colour. Some believe it is an allusion to the blood of Christ, others assume that the red colour originates from the Bernese flag of the time. The square shape goes back to the standard format of war coats of arms at the time. In 1848, the red flag with the white cross finally became the national emblem and was enshrined in the constitution.

The Swiss flag has a special feature: it is square. Apart from that of the Vatican, it is the only flag in the world with this format. Therefore, the coat of arms and the flag of Switzerland do not differ as in other countries: both are basically the same, namely a square red flag with a white cross in the centre.

In gratitude for what Switzerland has given us and continues to give us, we join in the celebrations and wish you all a happy 1st August 2023.

Your team anfina

Maintaining and preserving a healthy climate on our planet and making a personal contribution to this.

anfina takes a moment to talk about a very important topic.

It’s about caring for and maintaining a healthy climate on our planet and making a personal contribution to it.

Time and again, we have had the impression that nature and the climate all over the world are at the mercy of the whims of humans, who have often been listless, stingy or selfish when it comes to the right approaches and guiding principles.

Not realising that this reflects on future generations, on OUR world. The idea of OUR world is so clouded by the exhaust fumes and emissions of industrialisation that we take it for granted and it slips away from us.

But it’s not too late, it’s never too late, we can do something, and above all we can do it TOGETHER.

We often underestimate the importance of a small gesture, a helping hand, because we consider ourselves too insignificant a benchmark in a world that is too big.

However, if we do without plastic packaging for our takeaway food, use energy-saving light bulbs and automatic circuits or even prefer to walk rather than drive, that would already go a long way.

On 18 June, the new Federal Act on Climate, Innovation and Energy Security was passed (in the referendum) with the aim of achieving climate neutrality by 2050, reducing the consumption of fossil fuels and accelerating the transition to renewable energies.

At anfina, we believe that we can do something in our own small way and we are joining this cause in a self-declared way.

Therefore, we have undergone an ESG sustainability assessment and received a higher satisfactory score, which motivates us to do our best.

We thank Synesgy for helping us with the assessment and invite you to do the same.

We learn to inform. We learn to love.

Ihr anfina-Team

What’s behind ‘anfina‘?

Before we are a team, before we are employees or employers, before we are just a ‘service’ …. we are people!

Women and men who have no etiquette, who get out of the office and mingle among people and run to pursue their goals, but who also run for their suit at the dry cleaners or to pick up their child from school.

People who love, who have moments of discouragement, who laugh and who every day somehow try to get out of their comfort zone to be able to give something more, people who put themselves on the line, who always try to give their best.

We are people like our customers, and that is precisely why before any service, which we can offer, a hand will always be extended with empathy, because we know the difficulties, we recognise the importance of a stress-free experience, with help, with a smile.

anfina for everyone

Your anfina team

The four ski routes we tested.

(Magno – Gradicioli)

This impressive photo excursion report on what are probably the most contrasting ski tours in southern Switzerland was published in the 12/18 issue of “Die Alpen” magazine published by the Swiss Alpine Club (SAC). Now we would like to tempt you, whether on skis, on foot, by bike, on horseback or otherwise “mobile”, to tread these paths. Here is a brief summary of the four ski routes we tested.

1. Monte Boglia / Brè : Monte Bré, Lugano’s north-eastern local mountain, is the most obvious route. It starts below the funicular railway to Monte Bré, from the village of the same name sopra Lugano over the ridge of Sasso Rosso, continuing over the south-eastern flank to the ridge to Monte Boglia (1516m).
2. Alpe Vicania : which you can start in the most beautiful and uncomplicated way with the scheduled boat from Lugano at Morcote Stazione. Up to the alp at 725 metres above sea level, and therefore 500 metres higher.
3. Alto Malcantone, Monte Magno – Monte Gradiccioli : This is the longest ascent and descent, but the route stretches from Busgnone up to Mte Magno, where you can decide to continue on to Monte Gradiccioli (1636 metres above sea level), which is 300 metres higher. The views here over Sopra and Sottoceneri and the lakes of Lago Maggiore and Lugano are remarkable.
4.  Mendrisotto – Monte Generoso : At the southernmost tip of Switzerland, even from the Italian side, this route leads up from Casasco d’Intelvi via Alpe d’Orimento, Alpe Pesciò along the Kaltkürme up to the summit of Monte Generoso at 1700 metres, which the two countries share.

We will be happy to provide you with the full article for you to read in person.

This concludes our tour of the ski routes.

However, we would like to remind you that you can contact us if you are looking for a tour with incredible features to suit all requirements. We are here for you!