Veröffentlicht von Tim Lindenberger am 08.05.2019
Did you ever wonder: How can I buy or sell a property in Switzerland as an expatriate? With the following post we would like to give you important hints and advice on what you should pay attention to when you are considering buying or selling a property.
Would you like to buy or sell a property in Switzerland? There are certainly countries in which this undertaking would be easier to implement. Not only the financing and arrangement of the mortgage are already serious hurdles, but also the bureaucratic effort and the legal basis can cause confusion. For people who wish to purchase property in Switzerland, very different rules may apply, depending on where they come from. Nevertheless, in most cases the purchase or sale of real estate is not impossible and with a little planning and patience can be easily realized.
In the following two cases, you are entitled to purchase a property in Switzerland without special conditions: You are a citizen of an EU/EFTA country and can prove that you are resident in Switzerland or hold a C residence permit. In both cases, the purchase of property is comparatively straightforward. If both cases don't apply to you, it'll be more complicated than that: Anyone wishing to purchase a property in Switzerland also acquires a plot of land. And this is where the so-called "Lex Koller", the "Federal Act on the Acquisition of Real Estate by Persons Abroad", comes into play. Citizens of third countries (not EU or EFTA) who can prove that they are resident in Switzerland may in principle acquire land and property, provided that they acquire the property in their current place of residence. In addition, with the purchase you commit yourself to live in this property afterwards. Renting in any form is prohibited. Persons who cannot prove that they are resident in Switzerland or who have a residence but do not have a work permit can generally be denied the purchase of land and property. However, the canton may grant exceptions. In certain cases, the canton grants licenses for the acquisition of property and land. However, individual cantonal legislation must be taken into account here. The authority designated by the canton can provide you with information.
There are different ways to discover your perfect property in Switzerland among all the offers. On different internet platforms you can get a first overview of the available offers and compare the prices simply with each other. A glance at newspapers and magazines can also be worthwhile. It can be particularly advantageous to call in a broker from the region. He knows the prizes, can give valuable tips and share his expert knowledge accumulated over the years with you. Of course, finding the perfect property is not enough. Financing is the next hurdle that needs to be overcome. Up to 80% of the purchase price can be obtained as a mortgage in Switzerland. To apply for a mortgage, it is irrelevant where you come from. The only criterion you must meet: You have to prove that you are resident in Switzerland. In Switzerland, it is not unusual to draw a certain portion of the financing (in Switzerland, at least 10% must come from "hard equity") from the pension fund (at least CHF 20,000 must be drawn). If you have AHV insurance and earn more than CHF 21,330 a year, this option is also open to you as an expatriate. Your pension fund will give you information about the exact details.
If you have decided to sell your property, you should consider the following points:
Complex legal regulations, a somewhat specific mortgage system and different cantonal legislations can complicate the purchase and sale of property in Switzerland - and not just for expatriates. That is why we conclude with the most important advice: Take your time and find out more about the various regulations and financing options. And if you're overwhelmed alone: Get help from a local broker with the appropriate experience and expertise.