Everything about your property.

When purchasing a property, you should thoroughly check the property’s location, neighbourhood, asking price and condition. The incidental costs incurred give an indication of the property’s energy efficiency. You should also take the time to read the purchase contract thoroughly and find a suitable mortgage. Pension and tax implications should also be considered. If you require professional assistance, don’t hesitate to contact us.

When selling a property, there are multiple important factors to bear in mind. An objective valuation of the property ensures that you will be able to estimate a realistic asking price and sell the property quickly and for the best price. You will also need an appealing sales dossier containing all the relevant information and professional photographs of your property. You should also devise a marketing strategy that matches the planned time frame of the sale. The important thing is to maintain objectivity through the entire process and put any emotional connections to the property aside as much as possible. This makes it easier to negotiate with potential buyers. If you’re struggling to make the decision, we advise you to work with a professional estate agent. In addition to a professional valuation and marketing, the estate agent will also assist with screening potential buyers, processing the sale and notarising the deeds. The costs for expert services can usually be deducted from property gains tax, making these an even more financially attractive prospect.

Generally speaking, multiple factors including the location, condition, size, fittings and age of a property determine its price. On top of all this, there are current market conditions such as supply and demand. Online tools for property valuation such as MoneyPark Cockpit use what’s known as the hedonic estimation method, which is also used by mortgage lenders when deciding whether to lend. This involves comparing the property undergoing the valuation to thousands of other comparable properties and calculating the value using algorithms. This method is highly effective for standard properties. However, in the case of unusual properties with large fluctuations in value, whose intended purpose is commercial or which have a historical character, the estimated value may differ substantially from the market value because there is not enough data available for reference. In these cases, it is helpful to receive an expert estimation that uses financial and mathematical formulae to calculate the property’s value and presents the results in a detailed report. This estimation will take into account factors that add and subtract value.

In the majority of cantons, the buyer and seller each bear half of the notary fees, land registry fees and any property transfer taxes, while property gains tax is borne in full by the seller. Notary fees, land registry fees and any property transfer taxes may amount to up to five per cent of the purchase price. These costs cannot be financed by the mortgage or offset against the deposit. It is therefore advisable to familiarise yourself with the fees applicable at the property’s location.

Real estate can be a worthwhile capital investment if it is in a good location, generates stable rental income and appreciates in value in the long term. The costs of financing, the incidental costs and the tax implications are important factors too. Careful analysis of the market and planning are essential to success.

Switzerland has the buildings programme of the federal and cantonal governments, which primarily funds renovations that improve energy efficiency. This is the most important instrument and is supplemented by various other cantonal measures and sources of funding. The website energiefranken.ch provides an overview of the funding opportunities available at your desired location. Many lenders offer better rates for mortgages on buildings that have undergone energy-efficient renovations. In addition, property owners can benefit from tax deductions in many cantons for investments that improve the sustainability of their properties.

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. If your goal is to get the highest possible selling price, then demand is a major factor. The more buyers that are interested in a property, the higher the achievable selling price. Willingness to buy is heavily influenced by the general economic situation, properties on the market and interest rates. When it comes to viewings, especially in outdoors areas, summer is preferable to winter. And lastly, the best time also of course depends on the seller’s circumstances. The important thing is to allow enough time for the sale process, to be well prepared and, if necessary, to seek assistance from experts to optimise your chances of a successful sale.