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.345,000
Type: Apartment
Bedrooms: 1
This luxury 1 bedroom apartment on the ground floor is located in the heart of Anzere next to the slopes and the telecabine and enjoys fantastic panoramic views of the Alps and the RhoneValley.
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Price: SFr.540,000
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.
Price: SFr.740,000
Bedrooms: 2
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.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. 880,000
Type: Penthouse
Bedrooms: 4
This luxury 4 bedroom apartment is located in Chamoson in a quiet and south facing location amongst and between the vines. The apartment has been carefully restored and has 175m2 of living space with 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms and separate WC.
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.945,000
...your dream of an apartment in the mountains turns into a chalet while keeping the advantages of an apartment and those of a chalet!These 4 “Eco friendly" (Minergie) apartments are located in Es a south facing part of Leysin.
Price: SFr.945,000 to SFr.950,000
Bedrooms: 2,3
This very attractively located two Chalet residences are located in quiet and yet very central location in Laax - Larisch. These apartments offer a 360 degree uninterrupted panoramic views on this beautiful mountain world and have 2 or 3 balconies.
Price: SFr.1,050,000
Situated in a quiet but central part of Nendaz, these high quality apartments are built in the traditional Alpine style with great panoramic views and are only a couple of minutes walk from the ski bus.
Price: SFr.1,220,000
Type: House
This hidden paradise lies in a wonderfully presented garden with pool and fantastic views over the lake and the surrounding Bernese Alps.
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.
