Invest in real estate in Geneva

Investing in real estate in Geneva is a very good idea. Why? Because the real estate market is extremely dynamic, and its upward curve is not reversing any time soon. We know it and we’ll tell you why.

There are several factors contributing to its growth.

1. The city itself

Geneva is a beautiful city located at the edge of the majestic Lake Geneva. The quality of life is incredibly sweet, security is assured, and polite mannerisms come naturally. In the summer, we sail on the calm waters and take advantage of the beaches and restaurants on the lake. In the winter, ski enthusiasts are spoiled for choices thanks to the surrounding French or Swiss resorts.

2. An international financial center

The city of Geneva is a financial hub. It attracts a population of 'High-Net-Worth Individuals,' HNWI for short. It benefits from not only successful investments, but also exceptional high-end real estate.

Extraordinary lakefront villas, luxury buildings, Minergie buildings and luxury apartments with a historic charm in the Old Town are all included in the city’s selection of high-end properties for sale and appeal to a population with high purchasing power.

3. A thriving economy

Many headquarters of major companies are established or have already settled in the region, such as Procter & Gambles, Bacardi, and DuPont de Nemours to name a few. According to the last federal census, 931 companies - including 754 that are foreign - are concentrated in the canton (Source: Le Temps).

The numbers speak for themselves. “Thinking heads,” actors of the economic market, and expatriates come to work at these big companies and consequently need housing. Large corporations are expanding their portfolio and investing in real estate in order to house their employees (at their own expense or at the expense of the company).

Luxury real estate is on the rise, partly because it’s true what they say: the happier the employee, the more productive he or she is. A 12% increase in productivity to be exact, according to a study by the University of Warwick published in the Journal of Labor Economics. This is how to increase your yield and make your real estate investment grow.

4. Diplomatic ties

Geneva, the financial and economic hub, is also the diplomatic center. The United Nations headquarters may be in New York, but the major UN headquarters in Europe is found at the Palais des Nations in Geneva. More than two-thirds of the organization's activities are handled there. Foreign representatives on assignment and UN officials live in the city, which has increased the population by more than 1,600 members, not including their families.

The rental market is very active among these populations, especially for those on medium to long-term assignments. Demand is often much stronger than supply. So finding an apartment to rent in Geneva can be complicated.

Entrusting the research to an expert, who manages very large sample of real estate, is indispensable. A consultant will take care of the various administrative procedures and guide you through your choices.

Most importantly, living on the left bank or the right bank of Lake Geneva is very different from one another. And it’s even more difficult to choose when you don’t know the city. Your decision will depend largely on your workplace, the schools (schools are excellent on either side of the lake), and especially your preferred ski resort. The BARNES Switzerland agency will guide you through the country's wonders thanks to its expertise, knowledge, experience, and interests.

The market for the sale and investment of prestigious real estate continues to grow, laws are favorable, and mortgage loans are for the long term, encouraging future buyers. They know that their property is gaining value year after year.

Geneva is an idyllic environment to live year-round or to buy a beautiful secondary residence to vacation in all seasons. It’s a true cosmopolitan city in the heart of nature, framed by the mountains, embracing this extraordinary lake. Whether on the right or left bank, your panorama will be breathtaking.