Buying the Perfect Ski Property in Switzerland

Switzerland is one of the most admired ski destinations and for good reasons. It boasts fantastic mountain ranges where you can ski until you drop. There are also the celebrated Alpine Ski trips that get better with each winter season. Finally, the icing on the cake is the Swiss charm, warm, welcoming people, and a general beautiful heritage.

You would not be making a mistake by choosing a bargain buy at one of the charming Swiss villages or a luxurious dream holiday home near one of the bustling resorts. Some people may also want to invest in a holiday home as a second home or rent it to top ski lovers.

Whichever the reason for purchasing a holiday home is the Swiss market, there is plenty in store for you. This article will highlight some of the things that you should keep in mind when searching for the ideal property in the Alps.

What Makes Switzerland Attractive?

Many real estate experts give their nod for a property in Switzerland. They call it a low-risk endeavor, long-term, and a sure way to grow your capital. This country has a stable property market, and when most markets crash, it only gets a small dip. Second, it is the dream skiing destination for most outdoor lovers, something that keeps the demand for accommodation high all year round.

Third, the country has more to offer than just skiing, with local culture, fun activities, and lovely outdoors bringing tourists around the year. When there is no snow, the destination is a golf lovers’ paradise that attracts lots of interest.

Which Ski Resorts Do I Buy Property?

There are tens of amazing ski resorts across Switzerland. Let’s explore three of the most popular ones.

Flims Waldhaus

This area boasts many houses close to the prime ski areas. You will also find several properties for sale close to the lifts. So, you will be getting to your favorite skis in a few minutes. This area has a whopping 220 kilometers of skiing slopes and the Alpine feel. Additionally, if you want to rock with celebrities and royalty, Klosters is just around the corner.

This resort welcomes visits all year round. Therefore, you will not lack visitors that would need accommodation. Your potential customers have an easy time coming up as the Zurich airport is an hour and a half’s drive away. Expect mostly European visitors, although the numbers from others from around the world are gradually increasing.

Crans Montana

Crans Montana is a ski resort for those who seek luxury. There are also luxury apartments in the Sierre district. The resort was formed from a merger of two resorts, both of which were popular. They are in the heart of the Swiss Alps, which record a huge number of skiers and snowboarders.

This town receives visitors all year long. Therefore, it is ideal for property investors who would like to have some rental income. When visitors are not having fun across the 125 kilometers of skiing pistes or the 15 trails, they will be polishing their golfing skills in one of the four courses or watching the OMEGA European Masters tournament.

Verbier

Verbier is known to attract hard-core skiers. It also has some luxurious apartments and cozy chalets. Visitors also enjoy ski lifts that are top-notch services, challenging terrain, and several off-piste avenues. Amateurs also have several practice sections and can get guidance in ski schools.

Some of the luxury services that visitors to this resort get include saunas, outdoor hot tubs, ski storage rooms, log fires, terraces, and Jacuzzis. A property here would attract some of the most affluent customers.

The Process of Buying Property in Switzerland

Your property buying process starts with browsing a portfolio of property for sale in Switzerland. Visit various online websites and find important details like location, price, and features of the said property.

Once you have chosen a home to invest in, you start by signing the reservation agreement and pay a deposit in front of a notary public duly registered to administer oaths. Then, fill out a civil status questionnaire before you apply for a permit. Once the civil status is approved, you should sign the sales deed in 30 days. Your notary will do the necessary documentation to register the property.

Reservation Agreement

The reservation contract or agreement is just an agreement to reserve the property for the said buyer. During this time the buyer conducts due diligence, pays a deposit, and may secure financing for the same. This agreement contains the following information:

• The description of the property and its address.
• The purchase price and terms of payment.
• The amount provided as a reservation deposit, usually 3% to 5% of the purchase price.
• The duration within which all terms should have been met and the sale completed.
• The consequences of breaching the agreement, which may include forfeiture of the deposit or a part of it.

Once you have signed the reservation agreement, the seller cannot sell the property to another party until the lapse of the said period. Your reservation deposit will go to the purchase price. While this agreement is not legally required, it is a standard practice to protect all parties involved in the sale.

Filling out a Civil Status Questionnaire

A civil status questionnaire is a legal document that collects a buyer’s information regarding their background and financial position. It will also ask about your tax obligations and legal status. Most lenders would want to look at it when applying for financing. It serves as a tool to ascertain your creditworthiness and determine your financing limit.

Some of the things that you will fill out on this questionnaire include your occupation, biodata, marital status, tax obligations, income, and if you have any dependents. You will also list any other assets that you may have as well as liabilities.

Can I Buy Property in Switzerland as a Non-Resident?

You can purchase property in Switzerland even if you are a foreigner. However, you will be subjected to some restrictions that resident buyers do not get. They do not need any special permit to buy any type of home, whether an investment property or vacation home.

Non-residents can only buy an investment property or a vacation home. You need a special permit and be prepared to pay higher taxes than the residents. Additionally, you may have limited financing options than the residents. However, even with all these, it is still a lucrative venture for non-residents.

Permits for Non-Resident Property Buyers in Switzerland

The kind of special permit you will be required to have depends on the way you wish to use your property as well as your situation. If you are from an EFTA/EU country, you can purchase your primary home without a permit. However, you would need a residence permit to purchase the second and subsequent homes.

On the other hand, if you do not come from an EU/EFTA country, you have a choice of three residence permits with which you can purchase a property:

• Permit L issued to visitors who plan to stay in Switzerland for less than a year.
• Permit C, a permanent resident permit for those who have lived in the country for at least 10 years. It comes with no restrictions.
• Permit B, which is a five-year permit for visitors who would like to live and work in Switzerland for extended periods.

With any of these permits, you can buy first and second homes in Switzerland. Talk to your attorney to assist in the permit application process. Remember, the canton or state where you buy the property may have additional requirements for its buyers.

Do I Buy New or Old?

Each of these options has its advantages and disadvantages. For used property, you are sure that it met the building code and is most likely in a prime location. Some locations have no space for new development, especially at waterfronts. However, you will need to do a thorough inspection to be sure that the building still holds to its integrity after years of use.

On the other hand, a new construction is most likely looking great and needs few or no alterations. It is also likely to fetch a higher rental income than older buildings of the same size and features. However, you still need to check if the building has met building code and has achieved the energy efficiency standard set. Remember, energy efficiency is a key selling point if you need to sell it in the future. Finally, buy a building from reputable developers and ensure that it has a guarantee.

How Do I Choose a Chalet?

Chalets are more traditionally in nature. They are ‘feel good’ homes that incorporate aesthetics besides functionality. Let’s explore some of the features you would need to check when picking one.

Most ski chalets in Switzerland have a rustic feel to them as they are made from locally available materials like stone and wood. They blend well with the surroundings and give you good views of the landscape. You would want one with a fireplace to give you warmth throughout the cold season. Additionally, it should have some outdoor space where you can relax and enjoy the fresh outdoors.

You will still need all other amenities, such as a TV, kitchen, WiFi, and living space. Check it has all these or the cost of having them installed when making a purchase.

Finally, do not forget to check the energy efficiency of these homes. Talk to a professional to help evaluate these. Otherwise, some of the energy-efficiency features you would see include insulated walls, double glazed windows, and convenient heating systems.

Some chalets come with luxury features such as a Jacuzzi or spa. If you are willing to spend more for better relaxation, you may pick one with such features.

Budgets and Financing

Most ski apartments do not come cheap. Therefore, do your research and set a budget that you can stick to. Check the additional costs explained below as they are part of the final price.
Check if any of your home country lenders may be willing to finance your home purchase in Switzerland. You may get a few financing options in Switzerland, but they may be quite expensive as they consider you a riskier investment in a non-resident.

Keep Additional Costs in Mind

Apart from the general buying price of the property, you will incur other costs that may significantly increase your final purchase price. These costs include notary fees, registration, and property transfer costs. Additionally, you will pay up to 3.3% capital gains tax on the value of the property depending on its location. Remember, if buying using another currency, the exchange rates may cause you to spend more.

Suisse Immobilien Group has the Best Switzerland Property Deals

Suisse Immobilien Group is your partner when buying property in Ticino and other prime locations in Switzerland. Whether you are a family looking for a picturesque Swiss retreat home or skiing chalet, or an investor looking for low risk, premium investment property, we have it all for you.

Visit Switzerland anytime, especially during the festive season to catch a glimpse of the region's vibrant culture and lifestyle. Alternatively, explore the breathtaking landscapes and world-renowned skiing of the Swiss Alps before picking a property nearby. At Suisse Immobilien Group, we have experience in investment and vacation worlds. Let’s navigate you through the property market and make purchasing a property a smooth experience.