Is buying a property in Enge a good investment?

Last updated on December 29, 2023

Yes, the analysis of Zurich's property market is included in our pack

If you've enjoyed the central location and lakeside beauty in Enge, you may contemplate living in this Zurich district.

Is it a good idea though? What's the current state of the real estate market in that area? Are property values appreciating or depreciating? Are investors seeing returns on their real estate investments? How's the demand for rentals?

We'll answer all these questions for you! When building and updating our property pack for Switzerland, our team has been researching and surveying this area. In fact, there is significant customer interest in investing there. Therefore, we believe it would be beneficial to include some information about it in our property pack.

Why do property buyers like investing in Enge?

Enge in Zurich holds a special allure for property buyers, thanks to its unique blend of attributes that set it apart from other real estate markets, not just in Zurich but globally.

Let's dive into what makes Enge an attractive location and explore its journey to popularity, the type of people it attracts, and also touch upon some of its potential drawbacks.

One of the key factors that make Enge stand out is its exceptional location. Nestled in the heart of Zurich, Enge offers a perfect balance between urban convenience and natural beauty.

The area is renowned for its picturesque lakeside setting, providing stunning views and a serene environment that's hard to find in more bustling parts of the city. This proximity to nature, combined with easy access to Zurich's vibrant city life, makes Enge a highly sought-after area.

Comparatively, Enge offers a more peaceful and upscale living experience than other parts of Zurich. While areas like Langstrasse are known for their lively nightlife and eclectic vibe, Enge caters to those seeking a quieter, more refined lifestyle.

Its well-maintained streets, high-end shops, and quality restaurants add to its exclusive feel, making it a stark contrast to the more commercial and busy districts of Zurich.

Enge's rise in popularity can be traced back to the early 2000s when Zurich began to emerge as a global financial hub. This transformation attracted a wave of professionals and affluent individuals, fueling demand for luxury housing.

Enge, with its desirable location and upscale amenities, naturally became a top choice for these high-income buyers. The trend has continued, with Enge maintaining its status as a prestigious area, though market dynamics can always shift.

Speaking of the kind of people Enge attracts, it's predominantly popular among well-to-do professionals, expatriates, and families looking for a blend of city life and tranquility.

The area's reputation for safety, excellent schools, and high-quality housing options make it particularly appealing to families and individuals seeking a stable, upscale environment.

However, like any area, Enge has its weaknesses. The high cost of living and property prices can be a significant barrier for many. It's one of the most expensive areas in Zurich, making it inaccessible to a broader demographic.

Additionally, the tranquil, upscale nature of Enge might not appeal to those seeking a more vibrant, culturally diverse atmosphere. The area's relative quietness and lack of diverse entertainment options might be seen as drawbacks by those who thrive in more lively urban environments.

Make a profitable investment in Zurich

Better information leads to better decisions. Save time and money. Download our guide.

Why is Enge a nice place to live?

Enge is often considered a gem for those looking for a high-quality lifestyle in one of the world’s most livable cities.

Let's explore what makes Enge such a desirable place to live, from its lifestyle and culture to the practicalities of day-to-day living.

The lifestyle in Enge is characterized by a blend of tranquility and urban sophistication. This district, with its close proximity to Lake Zurich, offers a serene environment that’s a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

The culture here is a mix of traditional Swiss values and a modern, international outlook. This is partly due to a significant expat community that has brought a diverse range of cultural influences to the area.

Expats, especially those working in finance and tech industries, are drawn to Enge for its upscale environment and the ease of integrating into the community.

Living in Enge, however, does come with a higher price tag. It's one of the more affluent areas of Zurich, and the cost of living reflects this. Housing costs are on the higher end, and even everyday expenses can be more compared to other parts of the city or country. But for many, the quality of life here justifies the expense.

Safety is a key factor that adds to Enge's appeal. Zurich itself is known for its high safety standards, and Enge is no exception. The low crime rate and well-maintained public spaces make it a safe choice for families and individuals alike.

In terms of amenities, Enge is well-equipped to provide for its residents' needs. For education, there are reputable schools like the Zurich International School, which is popular among expat families.

Health care facilities are top-notch, with hospitals like the University Hospital of Zurich offering excellent medical services. Shopping enthusiasts have access to various high-end boutiques and shopping centers, such as Sihlcity, which cater to a range of tastes and needs.

The quality of infrastructure in Enge is exemplary. The roads are well-maintained, and utility services like electricity and water supply are reliable. Internet connectivity is robust, which is a crucial factor for the many professionals working in the area.

Accessibility is another of Enge's strengths. It’s well-connected to other parts of Zurich, making it easy to commute for work or leisure.

The Zurich Enge railway station is a key transport hub, providing efficient connections within the city and to other regions. Public transportation options are plentiful, with trams and buses offering frequent and reliable services.

This network makes it easy to reach the city center, as well as major transport hubs like Zurich Airport, which is only about 30 minutes away by train.

How much does it cost to buy real estate in Enge?

If you need a detailed and updated analysis of the prices, rents and yields, you can get our full guide about real estate investment in Switzerland.

Buying a property in Enge can be quite an investment given its reputation as one of the most prestigious and sought-after areas in the city.

Let's delve into what the real estate market looks like in Enge, the types of properties available, price ranges, and the factors influencing these values.

In Enge, you'll find a variety of residential properties, including apartments, houses, and luxury villas. The demand for properties in this neighborhood often revolves around high-end apartments and luxury villas, primarily because of the lifestyle and status they offer.

Enge's serene environment, proximity to Lake Zurich, and its reputation as an upscale area make these properties especially attractive to affluent buyers, including expats and professionals.

The real estate market in Enge is a mix of both new developments and resale properties. In recent years, there has been a trend towards modern, high-specification apartments and renovated properties that blend luxury with the latest amenities.

These new developments are particularly appealing to buyers looking for contemporary living spaces in a prestigious area.

Regarding prices, the cost of buying property in Enge is among the highest in Zurich. Prices per square meter can vary widely depending on the type of property, its location, and the amenities it offers.

Generally, you can expect prices to range significantly, with luxury properties and those with lake views commanding the highest prices.

Over recent years, property values in Enge have shown a steady increase. This trend is driven by the area's enduring appeal, limited availability of new properties, and Zurich's overall status as a global city with a stable real estate market.

Looking ahead, any upcoming developments or city planning changes, such as improvements in infrastructure or new luxury developments, could further impact property values. These changes often make the area even more desirable, leading to an increase in demand and potentially higher prices.

Predicting the real estate market's future in Enge can be complex, but given the area's consistent popularity and Zurich's economic stability, it is likely that property values will continue to appreciate, albeit at a potentially modest rate.

Factors that could indicate a potential increase in value include continued demand from high-income buyers, limited availability of new properties, and the ongoing appeal of living in a prestigious, well-connected area with high living standards.

Where is the best area to buy a property in Enge?

When considering the best area to buy a property in Enge, it’s crucial to understand that Enge, while relatively compact, offers diverse options that cater to different preferences and lifestyles.

The choice of the 'best' area depends largely on what you're looking for in terms of atmosphere, property type, and budget.

Different parts of Enge offer distinct atmospheres. For instance, the areas closer to Lake Zurich are known for their serene and picturesque settings. These areas are highly prized for their views and proximity to the lake, making them ideal for those seeking a tranquil environment.

Properties here are predominantly upscale apartments and luxury villas, commanding higher prices due to their desirable location.

On the other hand, the parts of Enge closer to the city center tend to be more vibrant and urban. Here, you'll find a mix of modern apartments and older, more traditional buildings.

While still expensive, properties in these areas might be slightly more affordable compared to lakeside homes, and they offer the convenience of being closer to urban amenities like shops, restaurants, and public transport.

Regarding up-and-coming areas within Enge, it’s worth paying attention to developments around the less central parts. These areas might not have the immediate appeal of lakeside properties but could offer potential for growth and appreciation in value.

New developments in these parts are often designed to a high standard, offering modern living spaces at relatively more accessible price points.

For those looking to buy, areas around the lake, such as those near Zürichhorn Park, are highly recommended. These areas not only offer beautiful surroundings and a high quality of life but also hold their value well, making them a solid investment.

Additionally, areas near the Enge railway station offer a good balance of accessibility and residential comfort, suitable for those who prioritize convenience and connectivity.

Conversely, areas immediately adjacent to major roads or commercial zones within Enge might be less advisable for those seeking peace and quiet. While these areas might offer more affordable property options, they could lack the charm and tranquility that other parts of Enge are known for.

Additionally, these areas might not see the same level of appreciation in property values as the more sought-after lakeside or central residential areas.

Here is a summary table to help you visualize better. If you need more detailed data and information, please check our property pack for Switzerland.

Area	Atmosphere	Property Types	Price Range	Recommended For	Not Advisable For
Lakeside Areas (near Zürichhorn Park)	Serene and picturesque	Upscale apartments, luxury villas	High	Those seeking tranquility and scenic views	-
Areas near City Center	Vibrant and urban	Modern apartments, traditional buildings	Moderately high to high	Those preferring urban amenities and convenience	-
Less Central Parts (new developments)	Emerging and modern	New, modern apartments	Moderate to high	Those looking for potential growth in value	-
Near Major Roads/Commercial Zones	Less tranquil, more urban	Variety of properties	More affordable	-	Those seeking peace and quiet

Don't lose money on your property in Zurich

100% of people who have lost money in Switzerland have spent less than 1 hour researching the market. We have reviewed everything there is to know. Grab our guide now.

Is there a strong rental demand in Enge?

In Enge, the rental market is indeed robust, reflecting the area's popularity and its diverse array of properties.

Understanding the dynamics of this market involves looking at the demand for short-term vs. long-term rentals, the profiles of potential tenants, and the types of properties in high demand.

Firstly, the rental demand in Enge is strong for both short-term and long-term rentals, but for different reasons. Short-term rentals are popular among tourists and business travelers, drawn by Enge's scenic beauty and its proximity to Zurich's business and leisure centers.

Long-term rentals, on the other hand, are sought after by professionals, expatriates, and families who are attracted to the area's quality of life but may not be ready or willing to commit to purchasing property.

The target demographic for rentals in Enge is quite specific. It includes well-to-do professionals, often working in finance or tech sectors, expatriates, and families. These individuals typically seek properties that offer a blend of comfort, luxury, and convenience.

They are drawn to modern apartments with high-end finishes, spacious layouts, and in some cases, amenities like a balcony or terrace with views, especially those overlooking Lake Zurich.

When considering the type of properties in demand for rentals, high-specification apartments, particularly those in well-maintained buildings with additional amenities like gyms or swimming pools, are increasingly sought after.

The areas near Lake Zurich and those close to the city center are particularly popular due to their blend of tranquility and accessibility to urban amenities.

Certain amenities can significantly reduce vacancy rates in rental properties. Features like secure parking, modern kitchens and bathrooms, smart home technology, and energy-efficient appliances are highly valued.

Additionally, properties that are close to public transport links, shops, and schools are more attractive to potential tenants, as they offer convenience and ease of living.

As for the potential returns on investment, properties in Enge can offer attractive rental yields, although these can vary based on the property type and location.

Given the high demand and prestigious nature of the area, landlords can expect a steady rental income, although exact numbers would depend on the size, condition, and exact location of the property.

Looking ahead, the types of properties that are likely to see increasing demand and potentially better yields are those that cater to the growing desire for sustainable and smart living solutions.

Properties with green features, energy efficiency, and high-tech amenities are not only in trend but also align with Zurich's overall focus on sustainability.

Additionally, smaller, well-designed apartments in central locations might become more popular, particularly among young professionals and expats who prioritize location and modern amenities over space.

Make sure you understand the real estate market in Zurich

Don't rush into buying the wrong property in Switzerland. Sit, relax and read our guide to avoid costly mistakes and make the best investment possible.

Is it easy to buy a property as foreigner in Enge?

Before we answer the question, please know that we have an article dedicated to the experience of buying real estate as a foreigner in Switzerland.

Buying property as a foreigner in Enge, Zurich can be a straightforward process, but it's important to be aware of specific regulations, potential risks, and the general purchasing procedure in Switzerland.

Firstly, Switzerland does have certain regulations and restrictions for foreign property buyers. These regulations can vary depending on the canton and whether the buyer is a resident or non-resident in Switzerland.

In some cases, non-resident foreigners need to obtain a special permit to buy property, and there may be limitations on the type or size of the property they can purchase.

These regulations are part of the Lex Koller legislation, designed to limit the acquisition of real estate by non-residents. In cities like Zurich, these rules can be more relaxed compared to holiday regions.

The purchasing process in Enge typically involves several key steps; finding a property, securing financing (if necessary), making an offer, and then going through the legal process of transferring ownership. This process involves various parties including real estate agents, notaries, and possibly lawyers.

One unique aspect in Switzerland is the role of the notary, who is a neutral party responsible for the fair conduct of the sale, ensuring both parties meet their obligations.

As for risks associated with property investment in Enge, the primary concerns are related to market fluctuations and regulatory changes. While Zurich's property market is generally stable, economic downturns or changes in housing policies can affect property values.

Additionally, being unfamiliar with local market trends or regulatory nuances can be a risk for foreign investors.

Common pitfalls for foreign buyers often include underestimating transaction costs (such as notary fees and property transfer taxes), and misunderstanding the implications of the Lex Koller regulations.

Another unique aspect in Switzerland is the concept of 'Pauschalsteuer' or lump-sum taxation, which can be relevant for wealthy foreign buyers and must be clearly understood before making a purchase.

Working with a local real estate agent or lawyer is highly advisable. They can provide invaluable guidance on the local market, help navigate the legal intricacies, and ensure compliance with all regulations. Their local expertise can be particularly crucial in understanding cantonal variations in property laws and taxes.

Common exit strategies for property investors in Enge include selling the property at a profit after a period of appreciation or renting out the property to generate a steady income.

In a stable market like Zurich, long-term capital appreciation can be a realistic expectation, though this depends on market conditions at the time of sale. Renting out property can also be a viable strategy, given the strong rental demand in Enge, but it requires effective property management to ensure consistent returns.