In a notarization, a state-authorised officer (the notary) is involved. Unlike the simple certification of a signature, the notary reviews the entire content: whether the parties have legal capacity, whether they understand the contract and whether the transaction is legally permissible. The result is a public deed with enhanced evidentiary value.
In Switzerland the procedure is governed at cantonal level – depending on the canton there are independent notaries, official state notaries or mixed systems. Typically the draft contract is prepared, sent to the parties in advance, and then read out and explained at the appointment. All parties and the notary then sign. For real estate, registration with the land registry office follows.
Notarization is mandatory for, among other things, the purchase and sale of real estate, the creation of mortgage rights, marital and inheritance contracts, and the formation or amendment of the articles of an AG or GmbH.
Look for early, clear advice, full disclosure of costs and taxes, and the chance to read the draft calmly before the appointment. Costs depend on the canton, the type of transaction and the value – ask for a transparent overview in advance. A common mistake is turning up without secured financing or with open questions still unresolved.