Real Estate in Switzerland

Last updated on Aug 23, 2023

Summary: An expat looking to buy a home in Switzerland should begin by researching the different regions and cities in the country to determine which area best suits their needs. They should also consider their budget and the type of property they are looking for. Once they have narrowed down their search, they should contact a local real estate agent who can help them find the right property. Homes in Switzerland typically include modern amenities such as central heating, air conditioning, and high-speed internet. Many homes also have balconies or terraces, and some may include a garden or outdoor space. Foreigners are allowed to purchase property in Switzerland, but there are certain restrictions. For example, foreigners are not allowed to purchase agricultural land or land that is designated for public use. Additionally, foreigners must obtain a permit from the local canton in order to purchase a property.

How do I find a place to live in Switzerland?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"We wanted the 'vacation home' type of chalet. We opted for view, ease of access to town, friendliness of townfolk and one of the most important--are they willing to speak English. Since we don't speak another language, this was very important," explained one expat living in Wengen, Switzerland.

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About the Author

Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.