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Can I buy residential property in Switzerland as a foreigner?

Regardless of nationality, moving into their own four walls is a big dream for many people. However, under the Federal Act on the Acquisition of Real Estate by Persons Abroad ("Lex Koller"), Swiss lawmakers make a distinction between Swiss and foreign property buyers. This is intended to prevent the "alienation of domestic land". To this end, the legislator makes the acquisition of property or building land subject to authorisation in certain cases.

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What are my obligations after buying a property?

Those who go from renting to owning are usually full of excitement at the prospect of having their own home. But in addition to the rights you benefit from when you purchase property in Switzerland, you also have new obligations that you need to be aware of.

Beautiful Landscape in the Valle Maggia (Maggia Valley), an alpine valley of the Maggia River in the Canton of Ticino, Tessin, Switzerland

Buy real estate on Lake Maggiore: The rustico presents itself romantically

With real estate agent Engel & Völkers in Ascona, you can buy picturesque, romantic properties on Lake Maggiore, such as a rustico. Rustici were once functional houses mainly used for agriculture in Ticino. Traditionally, Ticino builders used sturdy granite stone for the walls and roof of a farmhouse. This not only provides these houses with special stability but also ensures that they blend visually with the impressive mountain landscape. The rustici available on Lake Maggiore today reflect this romantic architecture. Inside, however, many of these properties surprise with high-quality or even luxurious furnishings that meet the latest standards. It is precisely this contrast between the rustic architecture, the romantic flair, and the high-tech furnishings that is so inspiring. Discover your ideal rustico on Lake Maggiore with us as your real estate agent, whether as a fascinating vacation home or a dreamlike permanent residence.

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House for Bitcoin: Do cryptocurrencies have the potential to revolutionise the real estate industry?

Anyone who invested CHF 1,000 in Bitcoin five years ago can easily buy a nice flat with that money today. This is also being realised: Bitcoin millionaires are increasingly investing their money in property. But how does Bitcoin actually work and how is the hype surrounding the digital currency affecting the property market?

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The world’s top 5 most exclusive ski resorts

Engel & Völkers presents this year’s ski ranking, highlighting the five most exclusive ski destinations worldwide. According to the latest survey by the globally operating real estate service provider, the most exclusive ski properties are currently found in the Swiss Alps: Gstaad in the Saanenland tops the ranking as the location with the highest real estate prices, followed by the prestigious ski resort of St. Moritz in Graubünden. Aspen, in the U.S. state of Colorado, takes third place, making it the most exclusive ski region in the Rocky Mountains. Neighboring Vail, as well as Park City in Utah, also rank among the five most sought-after winter destinations worldwide.

Contact

Contact your personal advisor

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Engel & Völkers Switzerland

Poststrasse 26

6300 Zug | Switzerland

Tel: +41 41 500 06 06