Replace mortgage
At the right time

Switching is easier than you might think—and can be hugely beneficial financially. Even small differences in interest rates can mean savings of several thousand francs per year. The right time to also depends on the and the terms of the contract.

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Overview
When can you replace your mortgage?

In general, mortgages can only be switched on the expiration date. There are no legal restrictions on this, but there are contractual ones. Most providers offer the option to sign a new contract as early as 12 to 24 months before the expiration date—known as a

The key point is:

  • Term / Expiration Date
  • Notice Period
  • Mortgage loan model

Even though the replacement of a mortgage can only occur upon its expiration, a new mortgage can be taken out with another provider beforehand (effective as of the expiration date of the current mortgage).

Das Instrument dazu ist die Forward-Hypothek.

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Switching Providers
Best Time to Switch

Anyone who wants to should start taking action 12 to 18 months before the term expires and request quotes. Depending on your personal situation, the ideal time to sign the new contract is about 6 months before the expiration date.

Note: Signing a contract too early may result in higher . However, this depends heavily on the future mortgage provider. Depending on the situation, it may make sense to finalize the deal well over six months before the existing Mortgage expires.

Tip: Enter your situation early on at . You can also set up an interest rate alert so you’re always informed about the best mortgage offers.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions
Answers about the replacement of a Mortgage

A mortgage can generally be replaced at the end of the term or after the notice period has expired. For , this usually only makes sense at the end of the contract. You can usually sign a new contract with a third-party provider as early as 12 to 24 months before the contract ends, allowing you to renew the Mortgage ahead of schedule.

Many providers do not charge fees for replacing a mortgage. In some cases, however, fees may be charged for the one-time cost of replacing the mortgage or for the delivery of the Borrower's notes. As a general rule, though, the fees are low, and switching providers is still worth it.

Ideally, you should start the process 12 to 18 months before the expiration date and finalize the deal 3 to 6 months before the expiration date.

Check interest rates regularly and take out the “new” Mortgage as soon as you find a truly good offer. This way, you can secure the with very low or no additional costs. Depending on your interest rate expectations or the shape of the , it may also make sense to take out a mortgage much earlier.

Switching providers typically results in interest savings of 0.2 to 0.5%—which usually amounts to several thousand francs per year.

Customers of HYPOTHEKE.ch save an average of 0.3% compared to the offer from their primary bank. Over a ten-year term, that translates to an average interest savings of more than 20,000 francs.
 

No. You can only switch after the term has expired or after giving notice—or with flexible models such as a with no fixed term.

Most lenders do not require a notice period for fixed-term mortgages. However, there are exceptions. Therefore, be sure to review the contract with your mortgage lender.

In this case, there are usually only two options: either temporarily settle for an expensive stopgap solution such as a —or stay with your current provider.

This can cost several thousand francs extra. Be sure to talk to the mortgage lender, though. Since notice periods are rather rare, some mortgage lenders turn a blind eye and “let you go ahead anyway.” However, you’re relying on the mortgage lender’s goodwill. 

No. In most cases, replacement is straightforward: The process is standardized, well-organized by financial institutions, and requires very little effort on the customer’s part.

The new provider typically applies to the majority of the processing. You usually don’t have to worry about a thing. If the mortgage is arranged through HYPOTHEKE.ch, we also monitor the replacement and ensure that everything goes smoothly. 

Some of the most common mistakes include: comparing options too late or not at all, getting only a single quote, missing cancellation deadlines, and blindly relying on your primary bank.

By reviewing multiple providers, comparing offers, and using such as HYPOTHEKE.ch, you can secure the best terms on the market. The can also be an attractive option.

Caution
Notice periods for fixed-rate mortgages

Some fixed-rate mortgages have cancellation periods—while this is rare, it can become a critical issue. Anyone who misses the deadline risks an automatic extension or an expensive interim solution. It is therefore advisable to review the contract at least 12 months before it expires. For providers with cancellation periods, it’s worth submitting the cancellation notice immediately after signing the contract and obtaining written confirmation.

Not very flexible at all
Replacement of a SARON Mortgage

SARON mortgages appear flexible, but they often come with with terms ranging from two to five years. During this period, you cannot switch providers. Therefore, check whether your SARON mortgage includes such a minimum term. If so, you can switch providers—just as with a Fixed-rate mortgage—at the end of the contract term, typically 12 to 18 months before the framework term expires.

Important Practical Tip
Avoid / Plan for Staggered Payments

People who hold multiple mortgages with different terms often run into a problem when switching providers: Large gaps between the maturity dates make it difficult or impossible to switch to a new provider.

Rule of thumb for a smooth switch to a new provider:

  • Deferred payments for up to 12 months → no problem 
  • Installment plan up to 18 months → usually possible 
  • Installment plan over 24 months → rather difficult 

Consequence of an excessively long amortization schedule: You are tied to the lender—and lose bargaining power when renewing the installments that come due early.

Mehr dazu hier: Hypothek staffeln oder nicht?

Flexible or Risky
Take out a SARON loan and switch to a Fixed-rate mortgage later

Those who start with SARON and later want to switch to a Fixed-rate mortgage often find themselves in a bind: The switch is usually only possible with the same provider—with little and, consequently, less favorable terms.

Sources of Errors

Common Mistakes
When Switching Providers

  • Taking action too late

    You should start looking into the extension of your Mortgage at least 12 months before it expires.

  • Missing cancellation deadlines

    Even fixed-rate mortgages may have notice periods. Review your contract at least 12 months before it expires.

  • In any case, stick with your regular bank

    It can make sense to stick with your regular bank. However, a “new” provider usually offers significantly better interest rates.

  • Do not request competing offers

    It is recommended to obtain at least five offers. Also consider insurance companies, pension funds, and investment foundations.

  • Non-negotiable

    Before signing the contract, you can negotiate switching fees, notice periods, and flexible terms—and, most importantly, the Interest rate itself.

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