In the section Backstage, interesting personalities from the financial sector and beyond provide insights into their personal preferences every Wednesday.

What do you do first in the morning?

I get up early, take in the view over the city of Zurich or the Piz Beverin—depending on where I am—and enjoy a bowl of matcha tea. During that time, I usually review my schedule, text messages, and emails. A cold shower is a must afterwards.

What is the best thing about your job?

We bring together people from all walks of life with the right properties—ideally creating long-term, fulfilling connections.

A moment that changed your life?

Our move to Switzerland in 1983—what a stroke of luck.

What cars do you own? Which is your favorite?

My twelfth Range Rover, a mid-aged Jaguar—the last of its kind in terms of design—and our company cars, Fiat 500s, which are actually my favorites.

What advice would you give to your 20-year-old self?

Don’t give up playing the violin and tennis.

What are you particularly proud of?

Having brokered over 400 properties with a total value exceeding CHF 1.6 billion, including the successful transaction of the Hotel Florhof in Zurich, ensuring its continued use as a hotel. Or Marschlins Castle, which we placed with the Liechtenstein family, keeping the estate in private ownership.

What do you do when you have doubts?

I like to go for an extended ride out in nature—afterwards, decisions become easier. If that’s not possible, I discuss matters with Daniela Doychinova, my business partner.

What is your favorite wine?

Expressive wines, mostly Pinot Noir from near my adopted home in Graubünden—Giani Boner from Malans, Annatina Pelizzatti from Jenins, or Gantenbein from Fläsch. Occasionally, I also enjoy wines from Italy’s Bolgheri region, such as Sassicaia or Ornellaia—including their second and third wines.

What projects are you currently working on?

I continue to work tirelessly on brokering both modern architecture and historically significant, heritage-listed properties.

What do you admire in other people?

Intellect combined with wit and charm.

What would be the biggest surprise for someone who had to take over your job for a day?

The breadth of challenges and the sheer volume of work we handle daily are often underestimated. Our profession is far more than just showcasing a beautiful house over a glass of champagne and closing a deal.

What is your personal drive?

The ability to appreciate moments of happiness, beauty, and enjoyment every single day.

What are you afraid of?

«That the sky might fall on my head» (Majestix, chief of Asterix).
In all seriousness: aside from an asteroid impact, I fear illness and war—anything that would prevent me from living my current life and continuing my work.

Your favorite watch brand?

I own many watches, including inherited pieces—I could never limit myself to just one brand.

Is there an unfulfilled dream you would still like to realize?

Yes, there is—but I won’t reveal it...

Your best investment?

My own real estate portfolio. I do invest financially as well, but «concrete» is the currency I understand best.

Driven by his passion for properties—what he calls «Liebenschaften»—David Hauptmann founded Nobilis Estate AG in 2012. For the past five years, he has led the company together with Daniela Doychinova. Nobilis has established itself as a competent and reliable partner in all aspects of high-end real estate and is exceptionally well connected both nationally and internationally.