The 360 Series
Secondary residences and taxes
In Switzerland, taxes on your second home are similar to those on your primary residence. Taxes are collected by the canton in which the property is located.
The property's rental value must be declared as income. This value (not to be confused with the actual rental income) is calculated based on the theoretical rent that could be received if the house were rented out, according to market prices and cantonal rules.
The tax value is added to your assets.
Some cantons allow you to deduct taxes for wear and tear caused by renting your second home. In all cases, mortgage interest and some renovation work are deductible, the same as for a primary residence.
The rental value of a second home is taxed as income. This also applies if the weather conditions do not allow the property to be used all year round, for example, due to snowfall or avalanche warnings.
Although it's subject to taxes in the country where it's located when acquiring a second home abroad, it's also mandatory to declare it in Switzerland. This is because Switzerland does not apply any tax on second homes abroad, but their value is taken into account when determining the wealth and income tax rate.
How the tax value is determined varies from canton to canton. Some cantons use the purchase price from the date of purchase (Geneva), while others use the average rate for the year of purchase (Neuchâtel), or some have an allowance (Vaud).
Given the complexity of these tax issues, it makes sense to seek professional advice. Our wealth and estate planning experts can help you with your projects at every stage of your life and find the solution that suits you best.
The next episode will offer a captivating exploration of the best places to invest in. Get expert advice and choose the most promising destinations.
The 360 series second home
Piguet Galland has developed the 360 series to give you all the necessary information to make your plans a reality. This comprehensive series discusses all the major topics you may have questions about. Each series consists of 5 episodes, providing you with the keys you need to ensure your projects are a success.
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Episode #1
A second home within reach
Make your holiday home dreams come true
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Episode #2
Financing your dream second home
Explore financing and define your budget
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Episode #3
Second homes and taxes
Discover the impact of a second home on your taxes
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Episode #5
Rental management and maintenance
The keys to a well-maintained property
What our clients say about us.
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Noémie Prod'hom
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Marie-Laure Favre
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M’Bayang Thiam
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David Vuadens
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Ann Evard
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Anthony Picard
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Dominique Lauener
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Franck Neveu
Seek financing for the purchase of a holiday home
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