Benefits Of Buying Swiss Property - A Viable Investment
Switzerland can surely boast of being the most stable economy in the world
. However the problem that many people face when it comes to property, is whether to purchase the property outright, or to rent it. Many expatriates are faced with this question if they intend staying in Switzerland for quite some time. There are a number of factors that need to be considered. Personal factors and financial circumstances need to be taken into consideration before deciding on any course of action. Families with children or families, who come from an altogether different cultural background, need to take into account their adjustment into a new place and climate. It is important to note that Switzerland is different from continental Europe.The percentage of people owning homes is comparatively low and many people prefer to stay in rented homes. As far as owner-occupancy percentage is concerned, Switzerland has one of the lowest percentages. The trend of rented occupancy is common here, but slowly, more people are choosing ownership. The Swiss are very traditional in their approach when it comes to buying a home, thanks to the house price inflation faced by the Swiss in the year 1980-1990.
What makes the Swiss economy so healthy?
Some of the factors for stability as far as the economy is concerned, are good and robust climatic conditions, well organised rail systems, a lower crime rate, good education systems, attractive tax incentives, sophisticated lifestyles and so on. Considering all this, it makes sense to buy property in Switzerland as compared to say France. As per statistics, it holds the second rank in regards to lifestyle and standards of living.
So how does one go about buying a property in this wonderful country? There have been alterations in the Swiss Law that have made purchasing property an attractive and feasible proposition. More and more foreigners are now interested in buying property in Switzerland. This however does not imply that anyone can buy property anywhere in Switzerland. It means restricted allocation is done to selected foreigners and they could buy land only in earmarked areas as per Swiss Laws. The foreigners need to be provided right permits so as to be eligible to buy property in Switzerland.
The Valais area of Switzerland is considered to be an attractive tourist spot and foreigners can invest in this area. Investing in Valais is definitely a thoughtful investment and investors stand to benefit. Valais boasts of one of the best climatic conditions surrounded by bountiful nature and high mountains. Valais has some wonderful skiing resorts, making it easier for property owners to rent out the property to tourists and earn a regular income. The property taxes would definitely be appreciated, considering this place is an attractive tourist destination.
Interested buyers are entitled to buy only one property in Switzerland, unless they have the Type B permit. Individuals that have a type C permit, have absolutely no restrictions on purchasing property. Before buying property, it is important to hire a notary who can help you with the legalities and also enable you to obtain a Type B permit.
The notary would also advise you on the locations where you should not buy property, or where it is not worth investing your money. Avoid non tourist locations. Tourist spots like Zermatt, Sass Fee, and Lausanne do not permit foreigners to buy property. At Geneva, you could buy property, provided you have the requisite permits.
by: Lawrence White