In Switzerland, the real estate market is evolving within an increasingly constrained framework. In Geneva, obtaining a building permit currently takes an average of 369 days, the longest delay in the country. These timelines, often driven by objections and procedural complexity, continue to slow down the production of new housing. In contrast, more agile cantons demonstrate that clear processes and strong local expertise can significantly shorten approval timelines.

This structural reality weighs on supply and reinforces the scarcity of well-located existing assets. It directly influences investment decisions, particularly in attractive urban and peri-urban areas, where demand remains strong despite a more demanding environment.

At the same time, the real estate investment climate became more readable throughout 2025. Interest rates stabilized, the most solid projects continued to move forward, and investors adopted a more selective approach. The era of fast, generalized decisions has given way to a more nuanced reading of assets, their use, and their real potential.

At Praemium Immobilier, we operate across several cantons and work closely with a network of locally established architects. This proximity to each market allows us to fully integrate regulatory, urban planning, and cultural specificities. It also enables better anticipation of constraints and, where possible, the structuring of projects with controlled permitting timelines.

Building has become more complex, but intelligently enhancing existing assets, adapting uses, and designing projects that are coherent with their environment has become increasingly relevant. In this context, the quality of analysis and guidance is just as important as the asset itself.

We believe that 2026 continues this trajectory. A year that invites us to slow down, not out of excessive caution, but to make better decisions. Slowing down to observe, understand, and choose with discernment. Real estate remains a long-term asset, rewarding consistency, quality, and vision rather than haste.

Present in Geneva and active wherever projects truly make sense, we support our clients with the same standards of rigor, discretion, and attention to both places and people.

Sources: CIFI IAZI, Wuest Partner, UBS, OFL, Swiss Press.