A second home in the mountains gives you plenty of freedom and flexibility in life. Whether you want to work there or head off on holiday – with a second home, the choice is yours.
Second homes in the mountains and Ticino are more popular than ever before. The pandemic has driven demand for staycations through the roof – which is why many people in Switzerland are looking for a second home. Places like, St. Moritz, Zermatt and Davos/Klosters are also in high demand among people from abroad and take the top spots in almost every global ranking of the best locations for holiday homes. But there are other locations in the mountains or Ticino that also make popular spots for a second home in Switzerland.
Despite rising demand, building more homes isn’t necessarily an option. Since the second homes initiative came into force in 2016, municipalities must observe a maximum limit on second homes of 20%.
But what exactly is the difference between a primary residence and a second home? A property is counted as a primary residence when at least one of the people who live in it are liable for taxation in the local municipality, has officially settled there and the corresponding note has been made in the land register. Furthermore, all "old-law apartments" can be used as secondary residences. Properties that are used for commercial or educational purposes or temporary staff accommodation are also considered the equivalent of primary residences.
If none of these circumstances apply to a property, it is considered a second home.
If a municipality has reached the approved 20% limit for second homes, it is not possible to approve any new homes for use as a second home. Even in that case, however, there are exceptions: if your holiday home or apartment is permanently operated for tourism purposes, if you use the new home as a primary residence, or if you wish to convert an existing old building, you may be exempt.
If you are a foreign national who wishes to buy a second home in Switzerland, this is governed by specific legal provisions known as ‘Lex Koller’. This legislation determines which permits are required for property purchases by foreign citizens. But which foreign nationals are bound by Lex Koller?
Our ‘Lex Koller Guide’ will tell you what to look out for when buying property if you belong to one of these three groups.
Do you have questions about the law on second homes or need help looking for a suitable second home in Switzerland? Our experts are happy to help and can support you with every aspect of buying your holiday home or apartment. Get in touch – we’d love to help you make your dream come true!
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