How does a mortgage brokerage firm work in Switzerland?

In Switzerland, the vast majority of property purchases by individuals are financed with a mortgage. Beyond the banks, a player less familiar to the general public supports a growing number of buyers: the mortgage brokerage firm. This article, updated in November 2026, explains how it works, why it exists, how it is paid, and the advantages and limits of its services.

An independent mortgage brokerage firm looks for the best financing solution for its clients’ property purchase or renewal. Unlike banks and insurers, it does not lend itself: it acts as an intermediary between the borrower and a broad network of lenders (cantonal banks, big banks, regional banks, insurers, pension funds). It analyses each client’s needs, prepares the file and negotiates the offers.

The Swiss mortgage market has many lenders whose lending criteria, valuation methods and pricing policies differ considerably. The same file may be accepted by one lender and rejected by another, or receive very different rates. Comparing these offers takes time, method and a good knowledge of each lender’s rules. Brokerage firms bring this expertise together and let buyers put lenders in competition with a single file.

Most often, the broker is paid by the lender chosen by the client, through a commission based on the amount and term of the loan. Some brokers also charge fees for complex files or specific services. Whatever the model, transparency is essential: a good broker tells you clearly how they are paid before starting.

• Access to many offers: the broker approaches, in parallel, lenders you may not know.
• Personalised advice: loan structure, choice between SARON and fixed rate, use of pension assets, amortisation.
• Independence: by working with several lenders, the broker presents the options and leaves the final choice to you.
• Time savings: one file and one contact person, instead of repeating the process with each bank.
• Negotiating power: thanks to the volume of business they bring, brokers often obtain better terms than those available directly.
• Knowledge of valuation criteria: they know which lenders best suit your property and profile.

• Fees: check from the outset whether you will be charged any fees, and whether they are in line with market practice.
• The advisor’s quality: the result depends heavily on their experience, the size of their partner network and their knowledge of the local market.
• The mandate: read the contract with the broker carefully (scope, duration, exclusivity).

A mortgage brokerage firm is an attractive option for anyone who wants to compare the market efficiently, get advice and save time, whether for a first purchase or a renewal. To learn how to compare lenders, read How to choose your mortgage lender and find out why you should consult an advisor at the start of your search.

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