HouseScoutApartment viewing service in Geneva
In Geneva, viewings are set by the régie (the letting agency), often at short notice and during office hours. If you're abroad or can't get away, a HouseScout scout views the flat for you and sends you an honest report the same day.
Why viewings matter so much in Geneva
Geneva is one of the tightest rental markets in Switzerland. Most flats are let through régies, which often hold short or group viewings and decide quickly. If you can't attend, you usually lose the flat.
Listings don't show everything. Note also that in Geneva the kitchen usually counts as a room, so a Geneva "4-room" flat often has two bedrooms. Seeing the flat in person, or through someone you trust, avoids expensive surprises.
How a Scout Visit works
Send us the listing link, your preferred date and your questions for the régie. We attend the viewing, check the flat carefully, ask your questions and record everything in photos and video.
The same day you get a written report with what we saw and an honest recommendation: is it worth applying, and what should you watch out for? You can decide straight away and apply among the first.
A Scout Visit costs CHF 100 per property, with no success fee. It's available in Geneva and Zurich.
What we check on site
The condition of the kitchen, bathroom, floors and windows; light and orientation; noise, smells and signs of damp; laundry room and cellar; public transport and the surroundings. Plus any questions you give us, such as service charges, pets, the move-in date or a lease takeover.
Questions worth asking the régie
How much are the charges, and are they a flat fee or paid on account? When was the flat last renovated? Is there a washing machine in the flat or a shared laundry room? Are pets allowed? Is there parking or bike storage? How many applications have they received, and when will they decide?
On a Scout Visit we ask these for you and note the answers in the report, so you can compare flats on the same basis.
Red flags to watch for
Be careful if someone asks for money before a viewing, says they're abroad and can't show the flat, or offers a rent far below similar flats. A genuine régie never asks for payment before you have a lease. Seeing the flat in person, yourself or through us, is the best protection against rental scams.
Be ready to apply
Régies decide on your file, so keep it ready: their application form, passport or ID and residence permit, payslips or your employment contract, and a recent certificate of no debt enforcement (attestation de non-poursuites). You apply directly to the régie.
If you'd rather hand over the whole search, our Full Search covers the shortlist, viewings and applications. Radar tells you about new matching flats in Geneva within minutes.
Our three services
- Radar: every new flat that fits your brief, by email. The best within minutes, with a price check. CHF 39 for 15 days or CHF 59 for 30 days.
- Scout Visit: we view a flat for you and send photos, a video and a written report the same day. CHF 100 per property.
- Full Search: we run your whole search, from shortlist to signing. CHF 390 to start, success fee only if you sign a lease.
Frequently asked questions
How much does an apartment viewing service cost in Geneva?
A HouseScout Scout Visit costs CHF 100 per property, with no success fee. You get photos, a video and a written report with a recommendation the same day.
Can I rent a flat in Geneva without seeing it myself?
Many newcomers do. Our report shows you the flat as it really is so you can decide with confidence. Whether to apply is always your choice.
What is a régie?
A régie is a property management agency. Most rental flats in Geneva are let through one, and it sets the viewing times and chooses the tenant.
Do you submit the application for me?
With a Scout Visit you apply directly to the régie. With a Full Search we prepare up to three application files for you.
Do you also do viewings in Zurich?
Yes, Scout Visits are available in Geneva and Zurich.