Like meloncollie says - don't believe a word a sales agent says. They don't have to live there, they just want their commission.

You appear to be in Zurich where good property is very scarce, could this problem be the reason this apartment is available.

I can only echo the advice about paying a visit to the Grundbuchamt. In my experience they have been extremely helpful and ready to offer good advice...

Yes I was there this morning, they do not have a cellar listed as pertaining to this apartment.
" I indeed can not find anything about the cellar in the grundbuch. To me it was obvious, as the current tennants use the part I showed you. "
Agent will check if we have any un grundbuch documented right to use the cellar. Looks like we will proceed...

Purchase was completed yesterday. For the cellar we don't own it and probably never will so I guess it is not our problem. The problem for us will be to get the roof re insulated, the other tenants will apparently pay their share on that but we will have to manage that project. Anyone having experience of doing that and what can be gotten away (putting in Air Con and new windows at the same time maybe) with let us know

Just a little note there:

Remodeling roofs is a cost to be shared by all the tenants, since it benefits all. You will need PERMISSION to do it! Do not go into the project without a permit from the bauamt!

Changing windows is also not so easy. You should also get permission from the bauamt. If the changes are minimal (just changing the old ones for same looking newer ones) they won't cause problem. But you will not be allowed to change windows size or glass colour or frame colour without a proper permit. These kind of works are visible from the street, and non licensed works will get you a heavy fine.

Also to take in consideration: not all cities allow the placement of AC units outside windows, because it is a drastic change on the fassade. Please check your Gemeinde before venturing into buying that kind of AC system.

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