⏱ 1 min read
Background
In Geneva, a tenant who wants to buy their home faces strict rules, even with the owner's agreement. The LDTR requires cantonal authorisation whenever a rented flat falls into a category affected by shortage.
The key points
Geneva voters decide on 27 September 2026 on law 13 025, which would make it easier for tenants to buy their homes. Passed by the Grand Council in December 2025, it was challenged by referendum by the left and the unions.
This is the third attempt at easing the rules. The left sees it as a disguised return of sale-driven evictions, according to Bilan.
Key figures
- Housing vacancy rate in Geneva: 0.31%.
- Tenants interested in buying their home: 7 in 10, according to a MIS Trend poll of 800 citizens.
- Written consent currently required from other tenants: 60%.
What it means for businesses
With a vacancy rate of 0.31%, the authorisation requirement currently applies to most of Geneva's housing stock. The administration must weigh maintaining the rental stock against the interest of the tenant buyer.
Who says what
Supporters: Diane Barbier-Mueller, president of the Geneva Chamber of Real Estate, says the law "obliges no one".
Opponents: the left and the unions see it as a disguised return of sale-driven evictions.
Further reading
Sources
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