Buying and Renting a Property in Switzerland

Switzerland borders France, Germany, Austria, Liechtenstein and Italy. With its magnificent mountains, lakes and lush green farm land, with the Alps taking up much of the country Switzerland has long been a favorite destination for skiers and tourists. Geneva is the capital of Switzerland, with Berne, Zurich and Lugano other cities of note. Geneva is a sophisticated cultural and business center which has a high expatriate community as a result of so many international companies having their headquarters here. Switzerland is renowned for being a wealthy country with favorable tax laws for high earners.

Foreign nationals can in principal buy property in Switzerland. But there are many areas and main cities where the purchasing of property by overseas individuals is not permitted – whether they are buying a holiday home or investment property. There is also a quota of properties available for purchase by foreigners. Real estate in Switzerland is as you would expect, generally expensive especially in Geneva. Swiss banks offer mortgages to buyers from overseas, but will usually only offer 60-80% of the sales price. If you can afford this amount of cash mortgages rates are low.

Rental property in Geneva is mostly apartments, with houses only being available to rent in Switzerland away from urban areas. Prices will vary according to location with city centre homes attracting the highest rates. In order to rent tenants must provide proof of employment and income. Rental property in Sweden is usually unfurnished – unless a property is being rented out for a holiday. Plenty of vacation accommodation is available in Switzerland from luxury ski chalets with scenic views to house and cottages around the lakes including Lake Geneva. There is also a variety of accommodation in Switzerland found in Valais.

If you are looking to relocate to Switzerland, or intend to buy a property here then check out the latest property listings here at Eurofalcon.com. We have a large variety of property in Switzerland to suit all tastes in some of the best locations and with new properties featured all the time you have the best chance of finding the right property. Eurofalcon.com can also help you find your perfect rental property in Switzerland whether you are planning a vacation or want to stay for a longer term. If you own a property in Switzerland then be sure to make use of our free listings and translation service.