An application for a cooperative apartment should be well-prepared, personal, and complete. With a structured dossier and a compelling cover letter that conveys your motivation and team spirit, you'll stand out positively from other applicants.
An application dossier for a cooperative apartment should contain all required documents to make your application complete and convincing. Typically, the following documents are needed:
The official form of the housing cooperative, completed truthfully and in full. You often receive such a form during the viewing appointment or as a download on the website. If you are not a Swiss citizen, be sure to include a copy of your residence permit.
A personal motivation letter in which you briefly introduce yourself, describe your current professional and family situation, and explain why you are interested in this particular apartment and cooperative. Keep the letter concise (max. one A4 page) and tailor it to the specific cooperative. This letter is your opportunity to make a lasting impression.
A current extract from the debt collection register (proof of your creditworthiness). This document is very important for the landlord as it shows whether you have debts or payment arrears. Make sure that the extract is not older than 3-6 months (many cooperatives require max. 3 months). You can obtain the extract from the debt collection office of your place of residence (often for a fee of approx. 17-20 CHF).
Documents that substantiate your financial capacity. Common are the last 3 salary statements as well as a current salary certificate or a copy of the employment contract (especially to confirm permanent employment). These documents show the cooperative that your income is sufficient and secure (rule of thumb: income ≈ 3× monthly rent). Non-employed persons (e.g., retirees) should instead include current tax documents.
Copy of a valid identification document (ID card or passport). Foreigners: Additionally, a copy of the current residence permit (foreigner's ID), so that the cooperative knows your residence status.
Many cooperatives require the last tax bill (not the tax return). After official review, your taxable income and assets are shown on it. This information helps the cooperative assess your financial situation and check whether you meet certain income limits (if the cooperative specifies maximum values for income/assets).
Letters of recommendation from your current landlord or employer as well as other references can increase your chances. A positive letter from your previous landlord (a 'rent debt clearance certificate' or a certificate of your impeccable rental behavior) can show the cooperative that you are a reliable tenant. A brief recommendation from your employer (e.g., about your reliability) can also be advantageous.
Some landlords or cooperatives require additional documents. These may include, for example, a current criminal record extract or proof of private liability insurance. Such documents are not always common but may be requested in individual cases.
An application for a cooperative apartment differs in some respects from a regular apartment application. Here you will find practical tips for a successful application:
Each housing cooperative has its own philosophy, history, and specific requirements. Take time to study the cooperative's website and available information.
Pay particular attention to the mission statement, social projects, and community facilities. This information helps you tailor your application and show that you share the cooperative's values. If the cooperative values sustainability, for example, you can highlight your own environmentally conscious practices.
On our platform, you'll find detailed profiles of many Swiss housing cooperatives.
Browse CooperativesCooperative housing is based on the principle of membership. In most cases, you must become a member to be able to rent an apartment.
Find out early about the financial aspects (cooperative shares, share certificates) and other requirements. Some cooperatives have waiting lists or require prior membership. Plan accordingly and mention in your application that you are willing to meet the membership conditions and actively engage in the cooperative.
A professional and complete application dossier is crucial. Make sure that all requested documents (see section above) are current and correct.
Organize your documents clearly and ensure high-quality presentation. For digital applications, a single PDF document with bookmarks or a clear structure is recommended. Avoid incomplete information or illegible documents – every detail counts and shows your care and seriousness.
Your motivation letter should reflect your personality and show why you fit the cooperative. Avoid standard formulations and design your letter individually.
Explain your motivation for cooperative housing and why you are interested in this specific cooperative. Share relevant personal experiences and values that align with the cooperative's philosophy.
Stay authentic – exaggerated or dishonest representations are quickly seen through. If you have experience in community housing projects or are interested in sustainable lifestyles, for example, this is the right place to mention these aspects.
Application committees often have to review numerous applications. A concise, well-structured cover letter of maximum one page is therefore preferred.
Structure your letter logically with a clear introduction, an informative main part, and a convincing conclusion. Start with a brief introduction of yourself/your family, then explain your motivation and your connection to the cooperative, and conclude with your potential contribution to the community. Each paragraph should have a clear purpose and contribute to the overall picture.
Visual elements can make your application more personal and memorable. A current, natural photo of you or your family can leave a positive impression.
Choose an image that fits your application context – such as a photo during a leisure activity or in a relaxed environment. Ensure a professional but not overly formal design of your documents. Clear formatting, readable fonts, and appealing color design can positively highlight your application without being intrusive.
Cooperatives are more than just housing – they are communities. Your willingness to actively participate in cooperative life is an important selection criterion.
Describe specifically how you could contribute, based on your skills, interests, and experiences. Do you have special knowledge or talents that could benefit the community? Perhaps you have experience in organizing events, craft skills, or an interest in urban gardening?
If you already have experience in community contexts – be it in associations, neighborhood initiatives, or other organizations – mention these as evidence of your teamwork skills and social commitment.
Financial reliability is also an important criterion for cooperatives. Clearly present your economic stability without becoming too detailed.
Mention relevant aspects such as secure employment or a stable professional situation. The rule of thumb that household income should be about three times the rent also applies to many cooperatives.
If you have experienced financial difficulties in the past that have since been resolved, transparency is the best approach. A brief, factual explanation can build trust and show that you handle your financial situation responsibly.
Competition for cooperative apartments is intense, especially in popular neighborhoods. A quick response can be decisive.
Prepare your application documents in advance so that you only need to adjust specific details for an interesting listing. Pay close attention to application deadlines and submit your documents as early as possible.
Use our notification function to be immediately informed about new matching offers. This way, you can be one of the first to respond and significantly improve your chances.
After the written application, a personal interview or apartment viewing often follows. This phase is just as important as the written application.
Have your application documents proofread by a trusted person to avoid errors and ensure that your strengths are optimally presented.
Prepare for possible questions: Why are you interested in cooperative housing? What can you contribute to the community? How do you envision your life in the cooperative? Authentic, thoughtful answers show your serious interest and fit with the cooperative philosophy.
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