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Real estate gains tax in Zurich: Everything you need to know

Anyone who sells a property in the Canton of Zurich at a profit is required to pay Real Estate Gains Tax. Find out how the tax is calculated, including a practical example, and learn in which cases a tax deferral may be granted.

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Luxury Real Estate in Switzerland – by Engel & Völkers

A rustic chalet in the Alps, a stately villa on Lake Zurich, or a stylish penthouse in one of the most sought-after locations in Zurich, Geneva, or Zug—the Swiss luxury real estate market is as exclusive as it is diverse. Luxury properties in Switzerland are defined by far more than just generous living space, numerous rooms, or a high purchase price. Rather, it is the keen attention to detail, first-class craftsmanship, architectural sophistication, and the use of the highest-quality materials that define the unique character of such a property.

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Real estate gains tax

This tax is determined from the difference between a property’s purchase price and its sale price. Has the property currently being sold increased in value over time? If so, the real estate gains tax goes up correspondingly. However, the vendor may be able to claim investments or expenses here in order to reduce the tax burden.

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What costs are incurred when selling property?

Selling a house or an apartment involves costs—even if you sell the property without the support of a real estate agent. This is because certain expenses, such as notary fees or the real estate transfer tax, must always be taken into account. However, there is no nationwide regulation in Switzerland: the amount of fees and taxes varies greatly from canton to canton. You can find out which costs are incurred when selling a home and how high they are below.

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Condominium ownership explained in brief

Your own four walls at last! Would you like to buy an apartment or have you already bought your own apartment? We explain the principles of condominium ownership and show you what you should pay particular attention to as a buyer or owner.

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Calculating the income value of real estate

The income value is used to value real estate based on its expected long-term return. Learn how the calculation works, which factors are decisive, and where the limitations of this method lie.

Contact

Contact your personal advisor

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Engel & Völkers Switzerland

Poststrasse 26

6300 Zug | Switzerland

Tel: +41 41 500 06 06