Due to law preventing Swiss and non-Swiss residents building second homes in the country, it can mean that buying a property in Switzerland is a sound investment as demand is currently out-stripping supply.
Add to this the low crime rate in the country, good levels of education and high levels of income, coupled with an average GDP per capita of $83,832, owning a property in Switzerland is an increasingly attractive proposition.
As a foreign investor you can reside in your property within Switzerland for up to six months per year.
You will need to apply for a residence permit to stay in the country any longer than six months per year.
Foreigners can only buy property in touristic areas, which rules out all of the major cities, such as Geneva, Zurich and Basel. However skiing destinations such as Saas-Fee are available for foreign investment in property.
The Lex Weber law is designed to prevent the construction of property in communes where there is already 20% of property made up of second homes, meaning that it is extremely rare that any foreigner will be able to purchase or construct a newbuild.
Foreigners and residents can only own one property in Switzerland. In addition each canton has its own rules on what value of property and what property type can be purchased.
There are several restrictions for foreigners buying a property in Switzerland; such as not being able to buy in non-touristic areas and – as a general rule of thumb – not being able to buy properties that are over 250m2.
However, different cantons and even different villages can have slightly different rules. Therefore it is always best to speak to one of our advisors about your own personal situation.