Baker McKenzie Switzerland AG acts on a diverse range of real estate matters, including M&A, private equity, investment schemes, and development projects, for a client list which includes both high-profile domestic and international clients. The department has recently been active in the hotel sector, with notable clients including edyn hospitality group and Beaumier. The Zurich office is co-led by Martin Furrer, Alexander Wyss, and Samuel Marbacher, all of whom are praised for their ‘to-the-point, hands-on and very personable approach‘. Charles Gschwind leads in Geneva, and has experience handling real estate transactions and related administrative matters.
Real estate and construction in Switzerland
Baker McKenzie Switzerland AG
Testimonials
‘The real estate team is very skilled, experienced and competent. Over the years, BMK has been very successful in integrating young talents, also across language borders, and making them valuable contacts for us.’
‘We would in particular mention, Mr. Samuel Marbacher, Mr. Martin Furrer and Mr. Alexander Wyss. Apart from the fact that they are highly competent and knowledgeable, they stand out with their to-the-point, hands-on and very personable approach to our legal questions.’
Key clients
Variosystems AG
Swisscanto Anlagestifung
PSP Swiss Property
Edyn hospitality group
Beaumier
Galenica group
Deka Immobilien Investment GmbH
HOCHDORF Swiss Nutrition AG
Steiner AG
Swisscanto Real Estate Fund Responsible Swiss Commercial
Work highlights
- Advised edyn hospitality group on its acquisition of Hotel Ascot in Zurich, which will reopen in Summer 2023 under the name of edyn’s lifestyle brand, Locke.
- Advised leading real estate developer Steiner AG on the sale of the development project ‘Widacher’ in Fischbach-Göslikon.
- Advised PSP Swiss Property (“PSP”) on its acquisition of a top tier property in Geneva in a share deal.
Bär & Karrer Ltd.
Bär & Karrer Ltd.‘s team covers the full spectrum of real estate transactions, including asset deals, individual sales, and share deals, as well as capital market transactions. The group also has strength in development projects, and covers public and private construction law. Department head Corrado Rampini has expertise in financing, enforcements, and restructurings in the real estate sector, and also covers asset deals and large-scale portfolio transactions. Daniel Bader advises individuals and corporate clients on tax matters related to real estate. At the associate level, Rocco Rigozzi and Kilian Müller are names to note.
Testimonials
‘Experienced and to the point. Solution focused and good to work with. Also, great collaboration within the firm to deliver solutions.’
‘A competent and courteous service, as well as a good reputation.’
‘Kilian Müller is a very smart guy with a good education and great negotiating skills. He works very quickly and reliably.’
Key clients
Allreal Holding AG
Novartis Pharma Stein AG
Work highlights
- Advising Allreal Holding on the acquisition of several real Estate companies from Immosynergies Holding.
- Advising Novartis on the sale of a part of its industry area in Stein in the form of a building right to Lonza AG.
Bratschi Ltd
Bratschi Ltd advises in all areas of both private and public real estate law, including transactions, zoning law and environmental matters. The team has profound expertise with real estate disputes, often representing clients before civil courts and arbitration bodies. Ion Eglin is an asset to the team with exceptional experience and focus on hospitality law. Team heads Markus Aeschbacher and Thomas Schönenberger are certified real estate specialists.
Practice head(s):
Markus Zurich; Thomas Schönenberger
Other key lawyers:
Ion Eglin; Christian Wind; Nadine Wanner
Testimonials
‘Very straight forward, efficient hands-on advice. Good collaboration with other teams within the firm (tax, trust) which are extremely helpful for the client.’
‘Markus Aeschbacher –Big knowledge, very helpful.’
‘Thomas Schönenberger, Much experience, very helpful Bigna Heim: Much experience, hard-working,’
‘Very focused on solutions, very well trained. Lot of industry knowledge.’
‘Very professional and enjoyable to work with.’
‘Reachability, approachable and not pushing for unnecessary works.’
‘Great know-how and good analytical strategic skills, available, very well-structured, excellent cooperation, our needs are well met, capacity to manage several projects in parallel.”
‘Capable real estate specialist team with a special focus on the hotel industry under the excellent leadership of Mr Ion Eglin as partner for the hospitality law sector.’
Key clients
BP Europe SE, Hamburg, Zweigniederlassung BP (Switzerland) Zug
Calzedonia Group / Calzedonia Switzerland AG
Generali Italia SpA
SPAR Group, including TopCC AG
Intershop Management AG/Intershop Holding AG
Realstone SA
Steigenberger Hotels AG
Yotel Hotels
Odyssey Hotel Group
Laudinella Hotel Group
Merck & Cie.
DPR Constructions
Blumer-Lehmann AG
CSL Behring Bern AG
Spitalanlagengesellschaft Spitalregion Fürstenland-Toggenburg
Meier Tobler AG
Genossenschaft Migros Ostschweiz
Arbonia AG
Asga Pensionskasse Genossenschaft
Kantonsspital St. Gallen
RIMC Schweiz Hotels & Resorts AG
Säntis Home AG
Fortimo AG
Hälg & Co. AG
Ego Kiefer AG
St. Galler Kantonalbank
Westoffice Real Estate AG
Pilecki Institute
Bezirk und Römisch-katholische Kirchgemeinde Einsiedeln (Municipality and Roman Catholic Community Einsiedeln)
ASTRA – The Federal Road Office of Switzerland
Petroncini Impianti SpA / Industria Macchine Automatiche SpA
Oel-Pool AG / Moveri AG
Work highlights
- Acted on behalf of the Bezirk Einsiedeln and of the Römisch-katholische Kirchgemeinde Einsiedeln regarding the redevelopment of the central area Einsiedlerhof close to the historic monastery of Einsiedeln.
- Advised Asga Pensionskasse Genossenschaft in the transaction of buying seven prestigious business properties in Eastern Switzerland from Credit Suisse AG as of the beginning of 2022, and of simultaneously leasing them back to Credit Suisse (Schweiz) AG on a long-term basis.
- Advised and supported the Steigenberger hotel group (Steigenberger Hotels AG, headquarters in Frankfurt, Germany), for their new long-term hotel lease agreements and related legal matters for various hotel developments and openings of new hotels of the group in Switzerland.
CMS von Erlach Partners Ltd.
CMS von Erlach Partners Ltd. is particularly active advising domestic and international institutional investors, and handle a range of matters, including acquisitions and divestments of property, development projects, and sale-and-leaseback transactions. Stefan Gerster, who has worked in the practice area for more than 30 years, leads in Zurich, while Olivier Carrard, whose practice covers commercial real estate and project development, heads the Geneva office. Also key are Sibylle Schnyder, who brings additional expertise in real-estate litigation, and Sidonie Morvan.
Testimonials
‘Very innovative, business oriented real estate team. Always well connected and up to date regarding new legal developments in Swiss regulations.’
‘Dr.Stefan Gerster: Exceptional track record in real estate institutional transactions Dr. Sybille Schnyder: Exceptional track record in real estate institutional transactions.’
‘People, collaboration, diversity, complementary skills.’
‘They get things done, goal orientation, thinking along.’
‘Individuals to be mentioned: Stefan Gerster, Sibylle Schnyder, Thomas Zweifel.’
Key clients
Credit Suisse Asset Management
Nova Property Funds Management
Swiss Prime Site Immobilien
Swiss Prime Solutions
Generali Investments
Vinci Promotion
Work highlights
- Advised Credit Suisse Asset Management, acting for Credit Suisse Real Estate Fund Hospitality, regarding the sale of a hotel property in Basel
- Advised Nova Property Fund Management, acting on behalf of a Switzerland-based investment foundation, regarding the acquisition of a real estate portfolio consisting of seven commercial properties in three different Cantons.
- Advised SPA and ASGA regarding the acquisition of a residential and commercial building in Geneva.
Lenz & Staehelin
Lenz & Staehelin advises a diverse range of high profile clients on real estate transactions and construction, with expertise at all stages of project development. The department also has strength in the infrastructure sector, with specialists across a range of industries including energy, water, transportation and communication. Beat Kühni, whose practice includes transactional work, construction and zoning projects, and real estate securitisations, co-leads the team alongside the Geneva-based Cécile Berger Meyer, who advises private and institutional clients in both civil and administrative matters, and Fabiano Menghini, who made partner in January 2022.
Testimonials
‘Experience, determination, availability, knowledge in real estate matters.’
‘Cécile Berger Meyer is an experienced partner in real estate matters. Very pragmatic approach in helping to close a complicated deal having always in mind the protection of the client.’
‘Very good team, high knowledge.’
‘On time, always available.’
‘Great legal expertise and experience combined with pragmatism and negotiation skills.’
‘Fabiano Menghini combines great legal expertise and experience with pragmatism and negotiation skills.’
‘The team is very experienced in all real estate and construction practice. Excellent knowledge of all specific juridictions and laws in Switzerland. Deadlines are always achieved.’
‘Cécile Berger Meyer is the best real estate lawyer within the Swiss industry. Very efficient, excellent understanding of the business case, always available, and solution-oriented.’
Key clients
Bain/Cinven
BMS
Climeworks
FIVE Resorts Group
Lonza
Vail Resorts
Work highlights
- Advised Vail Resorts on the acquisition of a majority stake in Andermatt-Sedrun Sport AG from Andermatt Swiss Alps AG (ASA), marking Vail Resorts’ first strategic investment in, and opportunity to operate, a ski resort in Europe.
- Advised Lonza Group AG on its plans to construct a large-scale, commercial drug product fill & finish facility in Stein, Switzerland.
- Advised the seller with respect to the sale of 31’000sqm of residential land to a listed real estate fund.
MLL Legal
Headed by Wolfgang Müller in Zurich and Philippe Prost in Geneva, MLL Legal’s real estate practice focuses on the acquisition and sale of properties, project development, financing, construction, and real estate litigation matters, particularly relating to construction law and zoning issues. Key strengths of the firm include rental law and German investment law. The team has extensive experience representing clients before the courts in real estate dispute resolution cases regarding landlord-tenant conflict and construction. Marc Schamaun joined from Homburger in February 2023.
Practice head(s):
Wolfgang Müller; Philippe Prost
Other key lawyers:
Marc Schamaun
Testimonials
‘MLL is always reachable on all available channels – phone, email etc. Everyone is very polite, helping out directly and efficiently. Holiday times do not stop or delay the communication. So, in our opinion MLL is the best organised law firm we are dealing with. MLL is working on a very high level with a perfect structure.’
‘From our work with MLL we single out Dr. Wolfgang Müller in particular because he always answers every question/inquiry entirely. His constructive proposals exceeded our expectations. Dr. Wolfgang Müller is always part of the transaction thinking from our point of view apart of legal aspects to reach a very positive outcome for us as clients.’
‘The MLL Team has wide experience in Real Estate topics and if there is somebody with less experience then they ask a teammate who has the right knowledge. They discuss difficult topics internally to provide the best solution to the client.’
‘Very good knowledge of the files by several collaborators, no worries in case of absence of one or the other.’
‘Excellent knowledge of Swiss real estate laws and practices.’
‘The team is very professional, has in depth knowledge of Real estate issues with different peoples having complementary skills. MLL is a serious and solid partner you can rely on.’
‘The individuals are all very reactive if this is needed, and easy to work with.’
Key clients
Allianz (Allianz Suisse Immobilien AG)
Allreal Holding AG
Burkhalter Holding AG
Calida Holding AG
Central Real Estate Basel AG
Generali (Generali Personenversicherungen AG)
HIAG Immobilien Holding AG
Meyer Burger Technology AG
Nova Property Fund Management AG
Rystadt AG (formerly Central Real Estate Basel AG)
Sunrise (Sunrise Communications AG)
Swiss Life AG
Züblin Immobilien AG
1291 Die Schweizer Anlagestiftung
Work highlights
- Advised Swiss Life in the acquisition of a real estate portfolio comprising 26 real properties in 4 cantons for a purchase price of CHF 360.3 million and the ongoing project development.
- Advised Burkhalter Holding AG in the merger and takeover of SIX-listed poenina holding ag and the listing of the new Burkhalter shares on SIX Swiss Exchange thereby creating a company with a market cap exceeded CHF 750 million based on the closing share price of 29 June 2022.
- Advised HIAG in its rights offering and listing of new shares at SIX Swiss Exchange, the proceeds of about CHF 160 million to be used mainly for project development.
Niederer Kraft Frey AG
Niederer Kraft Frey AG’s is well recognised for its tailored advice which covers the full lifecycle of real estate from acquisition to disposition in all major cantons of Switzerland. The firm leverages its multidisciplinary status, often collaborating with other practice groups including tax, banking, and dispute resolution to increase efficiency. Andreas F Vögeli heads the team and has considerable experience in multi-jurisdictional real estate transactions and land development. He is often supported by Oliver Zbinden who has vast experience with complex Lex Koller issues and with environmental matters.
Practice head(s):
Andreas F. Vögeli
Other key lawyers:
Oliver Zbinden; Annina Fey; Jamie Lee Mancini
Testimonials
‘Law firm with an excellent reputation and a very strong real estate team that goes always the extra mile to achieve best results.’
‘Very good people and communication skills, persuasive personality, high availability, outstanding negotiating skills, perfect knowledge about real estate law (especially Andreas Vögeli but also his team members Oliver Zbinden, Annina Fey and Jamie Lee Mancini).’
‘The team is reliable; binding and trustworthy; they are understanding the different supply chain steps in the real estate industry. They are using the technical state-of-the-art standards state.’
‘They are interested in understanding the problem und try to solve it; the team is content and solution oriented.’
‘Longstanding market practice Excellent network Nice People Deal oriented and pragmatic.’
‘Very broad know-how in real estate issues. Individuals with a high degree and experience in their specialty. So – from our point of view – a competent partner for real estate “challenges” for all legal issues.’
‘Annina Fey understood very quickly where the challenges lay in the topics presented. This is remarkable because in the area of real estate for telecommunications buildings, many issues are extremely closely linked to the challenges of Swisscom’s core business. In addition, the cooperation was extremely trusting, committed, open and very professional.’
‘Andreas Voegeli, in-depth real estate, market and legal knowledge.’
Key clients
A.P. Møller Holding A/S
Boltshauser Architekten AG
Coop
Frulact Serviços Partilhados SA
Ina Invest Holding AG
Mettler2Invest AG
Swiss Finance Property AG
Swisscom Immobilien AG
AXA Investment Managers (Schweiz) AG
BVK Personalvorsorge des Kantons Zürich (Pension Fund of the Canton of Zurich)
Canton of Zug
Credit Suisse Asset Management AG (resp. its Real Estate Funds and Real Estate Foundation; SIX Swiss Exchange listed)
EQT Partner AG
REWE Group (www.rewe-group.com)
Rhystadt AG
RUAG Real Estate AG
Schroder Investment Management (Switzerland) AG (resp. the Real Estate Fund Schroder ImmoPlus|(SIX Swiss Exchange listed)
ZKB / Swisscanto Invest
Work highlights
- Advised Ina Invest on the acquisition of a majority stake in CERES Group Holding Ltd (CERES) and contracts regarding the “Bredella” development project at Pratteln railway station and three ancillary properties in Pratteln and Aesch, Basel-Land.
- Advised on the acquisition of a large commercial property with a single tenant and a “roof and shed” lease as well as the sale of two very large commercial buildings in Zurich.
- Advised on various real estate transactions (on seller as well as buyer side) throughout Switzerland (including the German, French and Italian speaking regions of Switzerland) and various large construction / development projects.
Schellenberg Wittmer Ltd
Schellenberg Wittmer Ltd advises clients in contentious matters such as construction disputes, and non-contentious matters including due diligence reviews and contractual negotiation, implementation, and enforcement. The team has particular expertise with complex cross-border sale and purchases and is very active in the hotel and retail industry. The practice is highly integrated and regularly draws on support from related groups such as tax, employment, and M&A. Yves Jeanrenaud heads the Geneva team with extensive experience in contractual real estate matters, while Josef Caleff leads the Zurich team, leveraging a track record in complex real estate transactions.
Practice head(s):
Yves Jeanrenaud; Josef Caleff
Other key lawyers:
Amanda Burnand
Testimonials
‘We have worked with this practice since 2005. They have a deep knowledge of our business and provide exceptional advice in construction and real estate matters, as well as financial and taxation advice and litigation.’
‘We work mainly with Yves Jeanrenaud and Amanda Burnand. They respond immediately to any requests for advice or necessary action in connections with new tenancies, landlord and tenant disputes and problems with construction companies.’
‘Josef Caleff is a very reliable partner with excellent expertise in his field.’
‘The team is seasoned, articulate and client oriented. It is multidisciplinary and able to steer transactions confidently and earn the respect of their counterparts when running transactions.’
Key clients
International Labour Organization
Bouygues Construction
BMS – Bristol Myers Squibb
Credit Suisse AG
Digital Realty
Procimmo AG
Christie’s
Hotel Beaulac, Neuchatel
Implenia (Suisse) SA
Société Privée de Gérance
Patrizia AG
SV Group AG
SPGI
Vantage Data Center
Barry Callebaut AG
Celgene International II Sarl
DuPont de Nemours
Goldman Sachs
CBRE
HIG Capital
IDUN Industries
Bank Julius Bär
IFF
Colt Data Center Cervices
Work highlights
- Assisted the client for the sale of a data-center in Switzerland in the course of a portfolio sale of 11 data-centers in Europe to Ascendas Reit, a Capitaland sponsored REIT.
- Advised IFF, a leading manufacturer of flavours, extracts and fragrances for consumer products based in New York, USA, in the sale of the food preparation business, in particular the production site in Reinach.
- Assisted Celgene for the negotiation, the drafting, and the signing of a business transfer agreement related to the operation of a pharmaceutical production site located in Couvet, Neuchâtel by way of a bulk asset transfer pursuant to the Merger Act (including plots land, buildings, contracts and employment agreements).
Walder Wyss Ltd.
Walder Wyss Ltd. is widely recognised for its history of advising on high profile complex transactions, with particular experience in representing buy-side investors. The team acts for a wide range of clients including real estate funds, high net worth individuals and public listed companies. The firm also frequently represents clients in complex real estate disputes, establishing a solid reputation with international brands and investors. Practice heads Francis Nordmann , Johannes A. Bürgi and Marco Strahm leverage advanced know-how in complex commercial and corporate transactions. Samuel Dürr is a benefit to the team with his strong expertise in Swiss real estate tax law.
Practice head(s):
Francis Nordmann; Johannes Bürgi; Marco Strahm
Other key lawyers:
Samuel Durr; Albane Selimi; Etienne Trandafir; André Kuhn
Testimonials
‘Francis Nordmann is an outstanding partner. He is reachable outside business hours and provides well-founded information immediately or within short delays. Whenever needed he clearly communicated the deadline and accommodates in case of urgency.’
‘The Team of WW is highly professional, well-trained and before everything else proactive and solution oriented which makes the collaboration not only very efficient and easier but especially very helpful.’
‘Albane Selimi is my go-to lawyer. She negotiates very strictly with the opposite party. She understands and takes on our point of view very well.’
‘I mainly worked with Albane Selimi. Besides her professional competence, she is very solution-oriented and quick to deliver high-quality results. She is also an excellent communicator, making legal challenges easy to understand for me, thus allowing well-informed business decisions.’
‘Walder Wyss knows how to immediately put itself in our shoes and solve the problem in the best possible way when it comes to a new inquiry, which usually has to be completed under a lot of time pressure. For this purpose, very efficient processes are created in which cross-company project teams are established.’
‘I came to appreciate the team under Francis Nordmann very much. The following people in particular performed outstandingly.’
‘The team at Walder Wyss is composed of skilled and motivated individuals with a high degree of determination and willingness to think outside the box to achieve the desired outcome for their clients.’
‘The attorney handling our cases (Albane Selimi, MLaw), is always willing to go the extra mile for her clients. She takes a big picture approach to her profession and focusses on pragmatic solutions while never neglecting important details. This way to work matches very well with our approach to doing business and is very helpful when you need to move fast.’
Key clients
Artisa Group
Credit Suisse Asset Management (Schweiz) AG
Raiffeisen Futura Immo Fonds
Immofonds
Gold Tree
Swiss Finance & Property
Akara Funds
Immozins
Helvetica
Rhystadt Ltd (consortium of Swiss Pensions Funds)
Zuriba
F. Aeschbach
Brickvalue 2
Raststätte Knonaueramt
Work highlights
- Advised IPI Partners, LLC, a global investment firm that specializes in investing in critical digital infrastructure assets, in the acquisition of Safe Host, a Switzerland-based data center owner and operator.
- Advised Baloise Asset Management Ltd. as buyer in the course of a sale and lease back acquisition of several real estate in Basel with a privately owned sports clinic.
- Advised public listed real estate fund Immofonds in the course its acquisition of four real estate in Lugano comprising of approximatively 50 apartments. It was Immofond’s first geographical reach to southern Switzerland.
Homburger
Homburger stands out for its strength in real estate related disputes, administrative proceedings, and investigations. The team also has capabilities with transactions, advising clients on contractual and regulatory matters related to property development. The real estate counsel often collaborates with specialists from other practice areas including capital markets, tax, and competition. Stefan Gäumann is a certified specialist who focuses exclusively on real estate and construction matters. He heads the team Daniel Hasler who focuses on transactional and corporate work.
Other key lawyers:
Okan Uzun
Testimonials
‘The multilingual team covers expertise in all legal areas. The collaboration between the team’s experts is perfectly seamless. Thanks to the team’s in-depth experience, the understanding of client’s needs and the translation into a reliable, efficient and problem-solving legal approach are outstanding.’
‘Stefan Gäumann: Is very responsive and provides solid, concise and clear legal advice in all real estate and construction law matters, including management of real estate and construction law proceedings.’
‘The associates in Stefan Gäumann’s team (as in general at Homburger law firm) – in particular Okan Uzun – are excellent.’
‘The team is very responsive and able to produce deliverables in short notice.’
‘I have worked with Stefan Gäumann, who is a true professional and deal oriented individual.’
‘We had interaction solely with Mr Gäumann – There was no team visible – However, we are very satisfied with his work, and we would engage him in future situations.’
‘Multidisciplinary with other areas of law. Good distribution of work and tasks within the team. Many exchanges with clients’
‘Very good professional skills. Availability. Good preparation of files.’
Key clients
Swiss Prime Site
Novartis Pharma
AMAG
Givaudan
RUAG
ORPEA Group
Marc Rich Real Estate
Work highlights
- Advised Swiss Prime Site on financing of acquisition of Akara Group.
- Advised Swiss Prime Site Solutions on its authorization by FINMA as a fund management company and its first contractual real estate investment fund for qualified investors.
- Advising and representing AMAG in a project for the construction of multistorey public parking facility with more than 450 parking spaces in the greater Zug area.
Kellerhals Carrard
Kellerhals Carrard provides expertise in connection with construction and public procurement law, and has a particular focus on clients from the real estate consulting industry including architects and engineers. The firm has extensive experience of sustainable real estate projects and all aspects of digitalisation in the construction sector. Team head Bernd Hauck regularly advises foreign construction clients and has a particular expertise in litigating Swiss court cases that are governed by German law. Jean-Rodolphe Fiechter has over 15 years of experience in cross-border real estate dispute resolution. The practice is strengthened by Isabelle Romy, a leading expert in environmental and construction law with vast experience in litigation and arbitration.
Practice head(s):
Bernd Hauck
Other key lawyers:
Jean-Rodolphe Fiechter; Isabelle Romy; Fabrizio Gabrielli
Testimonials
‘We work with Fabrizio Gabrielli’s team on a regular basis, and we are very happy with their pragmatic and informal support. We always get perfect legal and strategic support within the shortest delays.’
‘Fabrizio Gabrielli has a wide knowledge of all aspects regarding construction and the development of projects. We are happy to have him as our main support, also when it comes to defining a strategy in a case.’
‘I think this is a strong, proactive, practice with an interesting international outlook. I get to recommend Swiss lawyers once in a blue moon, but I would have no real concerns at all about sending my clients to them. All of my experiences with them have been good.’
‘I work at a big German law firm, and we need to have international partners who are at the same level. Kellerhals Carrard and its real estate team is one of those partners. The construction and real estate team covers the entire country, all languages (French, German, Italian and English, of course) and all sort of services, including notarial services The team (headed by Bernd Hauck) comprises more than 30 lawyers (partners and associates) – great resources for complex projects!’
‘Bernd Hauck is the go-to-guy for construction matters in Switzerland. Bernd’s out of the box thinking is phenomenal. Great approach and availability. I would not go elsewhere.’
‘The Kellerhals Carrad real estate and construction team is unique (as far as I can see) in the Swiss market as they have a very international outlook as to how they deliver services and advice in this sector.’
‘I have dealt principally with Bernd Hauck and Jean-Rodolphe Fiechter. They are both excellent. They are organised and responsive. Bernd in particular provides very focused and clear advice on complex issues. I know Jean-Rodolphe to be an expert on legal issues related to BIM which is a complicated area.’
‘The Kellerhals Carrad real estate and construction team is unique in the Swiss market as they have a very international outlook as to how they deliver services and advice in this sector.
Key clients
Bricks Group AG
CSL Behring
EuroAirport Basel Mulhouse Freiburg
Grand Cariçaie / ARSUD
Immobilienpartner
Implenia
Itten+Brechbühl AG
Public Transport Canton on Baselland (BLT Baselland Transport AG)
STS Group / STS Group Switzerland AG
Swiss Association of Consulting Engineers / usic-Stiftung
UBS Fund Management / UBS „Sima“
University of Basel
Ville de Lausanne (city of Lausanne)
Work highlights
Pestalozzi
Pestalozzi provides comprehensive advice on all real estate matters for clients operating in different industry sectors including life sciences, retail, hospitality, and transportation. The firm has particular experience assisting in the development of hotel resorts, as well as representing public authorities and bidders on public procurement matters. Paola Wullschleger focuses on tenancy and environmental law and has vast experience handling complex real estate disputes. Andrea Rohrer-Lippuner, who is an expert in all regulatory and contractual real estate matters, regularly represents public authorities and bidders in cantonal and federal procurement matters. Practice head Michael Lips is notably trilingual in English, French and German.
Other key lawyers:
Paola Wullschleger; Andrea Rohrer-Lippuner; Evelyn Frei
Testimonials
‘The team is very capable and responsive, and clearly knowledgeable about all aspects of environmental law.’
‘Michael Lips is super responsive and thorough in his advice. Evelyn Frei is an excellent associate and a pleasure to work with.’
‘Long-term business relationship with Pestalozzi Attorneys at Law. Excellent understanding of the client’s needs. Customer-oriented support and way of thinking. Good skills to translate legally complex circumstances into customer-friendly language.’
‘Easily accessible, very human, and friendly. Good sense of humor. It’s about the success of the project for the client, with the client. Even if we are not “a big client” we feel very important to them.’
‘Great collaboration and partnership. You really don’t feel you are working with an external company. Solution oriented, they came with solutions and really create value.’
‘Strong technical knowledge and ability to translate complex matters in simple, understandable content. Availability and response time is excellent. Able to deal with complex matters and provide actionable solutions to the customer.’
‘We have worked with the team at Pestalozzi for many years and have an excellent working relationship with them. They provide timely and commercial advice on very complex EHS-related regulatory and compliance issues and are always available to provide further clarification where required.’
‘The breadth and depth of the team is very impressive, as well as the fast turnaround on projects that are live.’
Key clients
HOK International, Bjarke Ingels Group and 10:8 Architekten
Specialized Bicycle Components
Confiserie Sprüngli
Prevalis Pension Fund
Oberalp Group
Jeannet Immobilien
KPR Construction Management
Matterhorn Peak
Navigare Hotel Resorts
Johnson & Johnson (various group entities, in particular Actelion Pharmaceuticals Ltd)
McDonald’s (various group entities)
The Capra Hotel
Zurich University Hospital
Work highlights
- Advised the international general planner team consisting of HOK International Ltd, Bjarke Ingels Group and 10:8 Architekten GmbH with regard to the new Dock A with a new tower and a new dock root at Zurich Airport.
- Advised the leading bicycle producer Specialized in building a new Swiss and European headquarter located in central Switzerland.
- Advised the Prevalis Pension Fund on the construction and purchase of an entire development, consisting of several rental flats.
VISCHER
VISCHER has active experience in urban housing development, public infrastructure projects and commercial development. Raphael Butz specializes in litigation & arbitration and is an expert in handling complex construction and tenancy disputes. Roland Müller, who focuses on complex real transactions and investments, leads the team with Maxime Chollet who has broad experience drafting and negotiating real estate agreement, complex leases, and work contracts. Andreas Albrecht has particular knowledge of planning and zoning law.
Practice head(s):
Roland M. Müller; Maxime Chollet
Other key lawyers:
Andreas Albrecht; Raphael Butz
Testimonials
‘Regarding real estate, I worked regularly with Maxime Chollet who is involved in many real estate cases. He always has a pragmatic approach when dealing with complex issues.’
‘Dr. Roland Müller has apart from his vast experience and network a very solid, cooperative and structured approach that allows to find good solutions for all parties.’
‘The VISCHER team has regularly supported us in various construction projects. Response times and availability have always been excellent. Advice and draft texts are clear and meaningful. The time charged is reasonable. VISCHER’s support is always extremely valuable.’
‘Andreas Albrecht has outstanding knowledge in all legal matters concerning real estate projects. He is well versed in the industry standards of architectural contracts and construction contracts. He is also very familiar with public planning and construction law and public procurement law. In addition to his in-depth legal knowledge, he is an excellent negotiator.’
‘An efficient and responsive support team.’
‘Maxime Chollet – His understanding of the transactions and its key elements was absolutely excellent. Negotiated on our behalf with tenacity and success. Excellent and responsive drafting. Exceptional execution. The transactions very time-efficient and billing quite reasonable.’
‘Very smart and very good at finding the best way to approach the counterparty. Understands the business’ needs and limits very well. Very good at finding a balance between business needs and the best legal solution.’
Key clients
University Hospital Basel
Helvetia Insurance Switzerland
Spiegelfeld Immobilien AG
Procimmo SA, Le-Mont-sur-Lausanne
Einwohnergemeinde Reinach
Migros / Sigma, Partner Central Group
Fédération des Eaux-Vives
MEININGER Hotels Group
Work highlights
- Advised University Hospital Basel in a CHF 390 million construction project (new clinic building).
- Advised Helvetia Insurance in the transfer of a real estate portfolio to a real estate fund vehicle.
- Advised PROCIMMO SWISS COMMERCIAL FUND II (PSCFII) in the acquisition of the SUN and VSP industry sites from SUN Bürglen AG.
BianchiSchwald LLC
BianchiSchwald LLC advises clients on a diverse array of real estate matters, including financing and investment vehicles, public procurement and zoning, urban and rural property law. The tram also advises foreign clients in connection with Lex Koller, and is home to Yves De Coulon who has over 20 years of experience in transactions, construction, and mobility planning; he co-leads the team with Marc Metzger who is a go-to for private real estate investors, as well as various construction companies.
Practice head(s):
Yves de Coulon; Marc Metzger
Testimonials
‘Specialised in the construction industry with an excellent reactivity.’
‘The firm is very well known for its vast experience in the field, they are very familiar with the real estate market (as well as the health clinic market). BianchiSchwald has in depth knowledge and a broad team for real estate matters. The firm’s partners and associates are very skilled in these fields of business (health care, hospitals and wellness) and are highly committed. They are extremely responsive and flexible, very knowledgeable and accurate. The firm’s billing practice reflects the economic value behind its work very well.’
Key clients
Casacuberta Inmuebles
Hôtel Beau-Rivage SA Genève
Peptone Ltd
VAMED Management und Services Schweiz AG
ZSC Lions AG
ZSC Lions Arena Immobilien AG
Work highlights
- Advised ZSC Lions Arena Immobilien AG|ZSC Lions Arena Immobilien AG on all aspects related to the building of a new ice hockey arena. This included the tender of a catering partner as well as the negotiations of the catering agreement and the respecting lease agreements, and any and all aspects regarding project execution and management as well as construction disputes.
LALIVE
LALIVE ‘s real estate group has strong expertise in dispute resolution regarding real estate, construction, and infrastructure matters. The practice regularly provides representation in construction arbitrations, as well as cross border and domestic litigation proceedings. The team heads are Michael E Schneider and and Bernd Ehle.
Practice head(s):
Bernd Ehle; Joachim Knoll
Other key lawyers:
Sam Moss
Key clients
DSG Yapi San Tic A.S.
Republic of Latvia
Work highlights
- Represented Switzerland in the first ICSID arbitration against the country. The arbitration arose out of an alleged expropriation of real estate property and the claimant invoked the Switzerland-Hungary BIT for a USD 1.2 billion claim.
- Represented a Middle Eastern design company in an USD 798 million ICC arbitration regarding a dispute related to an infrastructure project in the Middle East.
- Represented a Turkish construction company in a USD 300 million ICSID investment treaty arbitration against Saudi Arabia in relation to a construction project. The investor is invoking the 2006 Turkey-Saudi Arabia bilateral investment treaty.
Mangeat Attorneys at Law LLC
Mangeat Attorneys at Law LLC acts for both private and public clients on a range of real estate and construction matters including development, contract negotiation, due diligence, financing and leaseback transactions. The practice also provides advice on environmental land matters. Co-practice head Joël Chevallaz has longstanding experience advising clients on high-value real estate transactions and representing clients in complex construction litigation. Pierre Rüttimann , who also leads the team, is specialised in real estate securitization and the development of complex residential portfolios.
Practice head(s):
Joël Chevallaz; Pierre Rüttimann
Testimonials
‘Great team. Everyone focuses on the client’s goal. Always available.’
‘Everyone has strong skills and remains available to satisfy the client.’
‘They are a leading firm in Geneva and especially in real estate.’
‘Joel Chevallaz has a unique expertise in real estate in Geneva with his double background: lawyer and real estate entrepreneur. That makes him a leading professional in Geneva and French Swiss speaking area with a know-how and precious connections. He’s a deal maker and a true expert.’
Key clients
TCA Asset Management SA
Helvetic Capital Holding SA
La Scie SA
Rivlin France SA
RES-Invest SA
Copimmob Esplanade/Petit-Senn société coopérative
Egg-Telsa SA (Geneva Airport project)
JDRM Immobilier SA
Les Belvédères SA
Sogeca SA
Work highlights
- Advised TCA and structured successfully for TCA 2 private bonds issues to finance the 5 stars Hotel Marriot Aegon Autograf in Mykonos (Greece) and a real-estate development in Switzerland (value of CHF 10 million and 5 million).
- Advised Helvetic Capital Holding SA on a real estate development in Geneva for a value of CHF 45 million. This is a development project of twelve luxury apartments in the high-end neighborhood of Geneva.
- Advised La Scie SA on a commercial real estate development in Geneva (Versoix) with Lidl, a major German retail group, as the main future buyer.
Wenger Plattner
Wenger Plattner regularly acts for both public and private clients on large infrastructure development projects. The practice has particular expertise in conducting buyer due diligence for the acquisition of commercial or residential real estate, and is led by Placidus Plattner who works with a diverse range of clients and has experience in public proceedings. He is supported by Beat Stalder who regularly supports government agencies and parliamentary bodies on real estate legislation.
Practice head(s):
Placidus Plattner
Key clients
Energie 360° AG
Immobilien ETHZF AG
Brandenberger + Ruosch AG
IST Investmentstiftung
The Swiss Federal Pension Fund PUBLICA
Genossenschaft Migros Aare
Terresta Immobilien und Verwaltungs AG
Stiftung Innovationspark Zürich
Work highlights
- Advised and represented Stiftung Innovationspark Zürich in a landmark federal court litigation case on planning law.
Wenger Vieli Ltd
Wenger Vieli Ltd offers advice on all aspects of real estate development with a focus on both the transactional and regulatory aspects of property development. The team has practical expertise in tenancy law, as well as technical expertise in architecture technologies such as Building Information Modelling. The practice is led by Roman Heiz who has over 20 years of experience, and is home to Nadine Zanetti who represents clients in construction-related appeals.
Other key lawyers:
Nadine Zanetti
Testimonials
‘Deep knowledge of the practice and a great understanding of the people they engage with. There is also a good moral compass in the team, which I really appreciate.’
‘Nadine Zanetti and Roman Heiz displayed a deep professionalism, and I can highly recommend them both.’
‘Good expertise, committed and equipped with the necessary industry knowledge, we benefit from rapid and comprehensive advice that enables us to make the correct decisions and assert our interests.’
‘The team is very professional and knowledgeable in their field. They act with the client’s interest at heart.’
‘Nadine Zanetti – exceptionally professional, well versed in her area, absolute pleasure to work with. Roman Heiz – always makes sure the team benefits from his vast experience and takes the best course of action.’
‘The team is very good in working together. They are all in the process as much as they needed and have all access to the relevant information about the case at any time. They use all technology which is absolutely up to date and are all very quick.’
‘The partner who works for us has a very strong knowledge of his field. He is a very quick thinker. This makes the work with him extraordinary.’
‘Roman Heiz is characterized by the fact that he finds constructive solutions in a balanced and goal-oriented manner, depending on the situation, which often makes further legal disputes unnecessary. Nadine Zanetti supports him in this in a very efficient manner.’
Key clients
Central
RFR Development
Personalvorsorgestiftung der Ärzte und Tierärzte PAT-BVG (Pension Fund)
Work highlights
- Advised Matterhorn Immobilien Holding on EUR30m sale of commercial building.
- Advised RFR Development on EUR 25m high-profile renovation and construction project in the heart of Zurich.
Blum & Grob Attorneys at Law Ltd
Blum & Grob Attorneys at Law Ltd specialises in several areas of real estate including acquisition and financing transactions, related M&A, and disputes. Practice head David Schwaninger has a focus on building projects, including new technologies such as Building Information Modelling and real estate data management. Co-practice head Hans-Ulrich Kupsch regularly represents clients in international and local construction disputes, and has a particular expertise in the drafting of contracts and in disputes based on FIDIC rules. Gian Marchet Kasper and Adrian Hirzel also co-lead the department.
Practice head(s):
David Schwaninger; Gian Marchet Kasper; Adrian Hirzel; Hans-Ulrich Kupsch
Testimonials
‘A team that covers the needs throughout the life cycle of a property.’
‘We see particular strengths in the area of real estate transactions, tenancy law, digital construction (BIM – Building Information Modeling) and data management throughout the life cycle of real estate as well as contracts under FIDIC and real estate litigation.’
‘David Schwaninger: Lawyer and partner of the firm, who not only looks for problems, but also offers solutions. In particular, he has a profound understanding of the issues that arise and is a shrewd tactician.’
‘The team is very professional, acts together and very quickly. The consultations are very practical and protect us in all dimensions. They think on the business level but also and of course on the legal level.’
‘The focus is on our business goals and not on the fact that it has to be as many hours in consulting as possible.’
Key clients
ELEKTRO-MATERIAL AG
Siemens Switzerland Ltd
Zaltana Properties Ltd
Viva Real AG
Zürichparis AG
Tiger Stores (Switerzland AG)
Wireless Communications AG
Meier + Steinauer Partner AG
WieInvest AG
WieRe AG
Property One Partners AG
Property One Investors AG
Hyrock AG
Loreda Real Estate GmbH
C Land AG
Work highlights
- Advised Loreda Real Estate GmbH on the sale of a large RE Portfolio with estates all across Switzerland to one of the major Swiss Banks. Total transaction volume >500m CHF.
- Advised WieInvest AG on mezzanine financings in a toral value of >150 million to various private and institutional real estate investors and developers. This included the negotiation of financing and security (including alternative security) documentation.
- Advised Wireless Communications in leasing and further real estate matters within the mobile technology sector.
BMG Avocats
BMG Avocats’ real estate practice focuses on land use planning, rental and lease contracts, and construction projects. The firm advises clients on a range of issues including environmental law, contract negotiation and disputes, acting for a range of clients including institutional investors, commercial parties, and public entities. The practice is headed by Isabelle Salomé Daïna and Nicolas Wisard.
Practice head(s):
Isabelle Salomé Daïna; Nicolas Wisard
Testimonials
‘The advice given is of high added value compared to other firms with which we have had to collaborate. The firm’s commitment is also flawless. These two key elements of success mean that we regularly mandate this firm.’
‘Knowledge of cases at your fingertips, excellent ability to react and counter the arguments of the opposing party during hearings and during unforeseen events. Me Isabelle Salomé Daïna is extremely efficient.’
Work highlights
Prager Dreifuss AG
Prager Dreifuss AG has capabilities in the fields of real estate transactions, financing, private construction law and commercial leases. The team regularly advises hotel operators and project developers and has overseen several hotel developments projects, and has expertise in representing private clients and high-net-worth individuals. Hans-Ulrich Brunner heads the practice and has extensive knowledge in construction business operations, architecture and engineering practices and real estate transactions.
Practice head(s):
Dr. Hans-Ulrich Brunner
Work highlights
- Advised a real estate company on a CHF 70 million residential property project.