Rentova vs. Traditional Relocation Agencies
Different approaches, different price points. Here's an honest comparison to help you understand what makes sense for your situation.
At a Glance
| Rentova | Traditional Agencies | |
|---|---|---|
| Base Cost | CHF 500 | CHF 2,000 - 5,000 |
| Success Fee | 1 month rent | Often included in base |
| Total for CHF 2,500 apartment | CHF 3,000 | CHF 3,000 - 6,000 |
| Visa/Permit Support | ||
| School Search | ||
| Settling-in Services | ||
| Apartment Search | ||
| Viewings Attended | ||
| German Communication | ||
| Pay Only on Success |
Rentova is for you if:
- You only need apartment search help
- You can handle visa/permits yourself or with HR
- You want to pay primarily on success
- You're budget-conscious but still want expert help
- You're an individual, not using corporate relocation
Traditional agencies are for you if:
- You need full relocation support (visa, schools, etc.)
- Your employer is paying for relocation
- You want a single point of contact for everything
- You're an executive with complex needs
- Budget is not a primary concern
What We Don't Do
Transparency matters. Here's what Rentova doesn't offer:
- Visa/work permit support — We focus on apartment search only. Your HR or an immigration lawyer can help with permits.
- School search — We don't help find schools or childcare. Education consultants specialize in this.
- Settling-in services — We don't help with bank accounts, insurance, or registrations. But we can point you to resources.
- Guarantee an apartment — No one can guarantee this in a 0.5% vacancy market. We maximize your chances, not promise miracles.
Real Cost Examples
What you'd actually pay for a CHF 2,500/month apartment:
Rentova Full Search
CHF 3,000CHF 500 base + CHF 2,500 success fee (1 month rent). You only pay the success fee if we find you an apartment.
Mid-tier Relocation Agency
CHF 4,000 - 5,000Usually a flat fee regardless of outcome. May include some additional services.
Premium Relocation Package
CHF 8,000 - 15,000+Full service including visa support, school search, settling-in. Typically corporate-paid.
Where Rentova Fits
We're not trying to replace full-service relocation agencies. We're filling a gap: expert apartment search help without paying for services you don't need.
If your employer offers relocation support, use it — it's free to you. If you're relocating independently and just need the apartment sorted, that's where we come in.
Still Have Questions?
Let's talk about your specific situation — no pressure, no sales pitch.
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