Country: Switzerland
5. Property in Switzerland Many of the high earners currently living in Britain look set to quit the UK in droves ahead of the introduction of a 50% top tax rate in April 2010, and escape to more tax-friendly shores, such as Switzerland.
The Swiss authorities are actively lobbying to attract many of these disillusioned high-net worth individuals, who are being tempted by assurances that they will be allowed to steer clear of European Union regulation and Britain’s Financial Services Authority.
It is estimated that hedge funds managing in the region of £10bn in assets have already moved to Switzerland in the past year alone. This has increased demand for homes to rent and buy.
Due to canton restrictions, it has previously been difficult for foreigners to buy property in Switzerland. However, the country has now eased its strict property buying regulations, and opened its doors to more international buyers, partly through the introduction of ‘residence de tourisme’ style investments, which is similar to the ever-popular ‘leaseback’ formula in France. Switzerland, one of the richest nations in the world, is of course a tax haven. Anyone who sets up permanent residency in Switzerland would be entitled to take advantage of the country’s favourable tax law, including the lump sum taxation, which charges a levy based on people’s lifestyle and spending habits.
Given that one’s taxable income is charged at just five times their annual rent or rental value of their property, and the fact that assets outside Switzerland remain tax-free, should ensure demand for Swiss properties - to rent and buy - remains strong for years to come.
Historically, Swiss property values have typically appreciated in line with inflation. Properties located at the top end of the market, in cantons like Valais and Vaud, have reportedly increased by up to 20% in the past year.
See Also: Marc Da-Silva, Switzerland
Price: SFr.540,000
Type: Apartment
Bedrooms: 3
These 4 remaining luxury apartments are available to a Foreign National and are located in St. Gingolph on the second line with wonderful views on the Lake of Geneva.
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Price: SFr.630,000
Bedrooms: 2
Located in the heart of the Engadin in Scoul just a few minutes from the centre and the ski area of Scoul. These luxury apartments are located in a south facing location within a short walk to the village and the ski pistes. 220
Price: SFr.689,000
Bedrooms: 1
Located right next to the pistes, this big one bedroom apartment with 65m2 of net living space with an additional room with separate WC/Shower is a real gem.
Price: SFr.740,000
Available to Foreign National Located near the centre of Leukerbad and yet just a short walk to ski lift and all amenities of live, these luxury ski apartments enjoy all fantastic view over the village and the Alps. 220
Price: SFr.730,000 to SFr.820,000
Type: Apartments
Bedrooms: 1/2
If you like to be in more quiet yet very central and sunny location this is perfect for you.
Price: SFr.780,000
Type: Chalet
Always dreamt of chalet in the mountains? It is now possible for you to purchase a 3 bedroom chalet over 2 floors with an openplan kitchen, dining and living area and access to a large balcony - the chalet has a total living space of 160m2 and is
Price: SFr.890,000
Type: Penthouse
This luxury penthouse is located on the top of the Domaine de la Residence next to the ski pistes. It was constructed in 1992 and stands in a panoramic south west facing location with 97 m2 of living space 10m2 on the gallery.
Price: SFr.895,000
An exceptional 3 bedroom apartment with 114m2 of living space and 54m2 of balcony/terrace in the luxury Chalet Residence Rosat. Located just a few minutes from the centre in a quiet location above Chateau d’Oex.
Price: SFr.900,000
Type: Duplex
This traditional 3 bedroom apartment is located next to ski pistes and the entry of the Domaine de la Residence and closed to the lift Villars Roc-d’Orsay.
Price: SF.r 940,000
This penthouses has 90m2 of living space with a double bedroom and an open plan kitchen with living area and fire and access to balcony with panoramic views on the world famous mountain peaks.
Prices from: SFr 730,000
Bedrooms: 1 & 2
Price: SFr 6,950,000
Bedrooms: 6
This bespoke chalet is hidden between trees in very private position with beautiful views over the Swiss Alps.
