Buying a Swiss property.

Recent studies of Swiss property warn of a property bubble especially in the major cities and some exclusive ski resorts. The financial authorities have asked lenders to be more cautious and to ensure down payments are sufficient and stricter affordability guidelines are satisfied. We strongly believe that if a buyer is cautious and takes expert advice, then Swiss property remains a good long-term investment.

If interest rates remain low and the economy stable then the demand will continue to push prices higher. The Swiss National Bank and the Financial Markets Supervisory Authority (Finma) have therefore asked the banks and lenders to ensure that ten per cent of a borrower's down payment is financed using personal sources and not from their pension fund capital and that one-third of the loan should be repaid within 20 years. These are guidelines and the lenders can, and do, make exceptions. However, if this self-regulatory system is abused, then the government will no doubt increase the pressure on lenders.

Here are some guidelines to follow when buying a property in Switzerland:

* Generally--When you buy a property also consider other factors including the proximity of schools, public transport, motorways, airports, shopping, and leisure amenities. Carry...

Pour continuer la lecture

SOLLICITEZ VOTRE ESSAI

VLEX uses login cookies to provide you with a better browsing experience. If you click on 'Accept' or continue browsing this site we consider that you accept our cookie policy. ACCEPT