A second home in Switzerland

By approving the initiative on second homes in 2012, Swiss citizens expressed their support for limiting the construction of second homes. The federal law on second homes (LRS), which came into force on 1 January 2016, gives genuine meaning to the constitutional article on second homes (art. 75b Cst.). This legislation requires all Swiss municipalities to draw up an annual inventory of their residential properties.

A chalet in the mountains

The price of a luxury ski chalet rose by 4.4% on average in the last 12 months up to June 2023. Excluding the pandemic years, this is the most significant growth since 2014.

Swiss resorts dominate the rankings for the second year running, with three German-speaking resorts - Klosters, Davos and one of this year's newcomers, Andermatt - taking top positions. The scarcity of property and the improvement of infrastructures in each resort are driving prices up.

Resorts attract diverse demographics, from skiers to mountain bikers, hikers, paragliders, and trail runners. They host a busy calendar of sporting events that stimulate demand from investors.

Two trends emerged in 2023, with a split in buyer motivations. High-altitude resorts such as St. Moritz and year-round resorts such as Verbier outperformed. Buyers either favoured resorts that offer a longer ski season with guaranteed snow or targeted locations offering a more comprehensive range of activities, both on and off the slopes, and a lively atmosphere during the summer months.

Feet in the water

Second homes in Switzerland, especially in lakes, offer a unique experience combining natural beauty with exceptional quality of life. These regions are full of charm and tranquillity, particularly appealing to second homeowners looking for a peaceful haven.

The shores of the Swiss lakes, such as Lake Geneva, Lake Zurich, and Lake Lucerne, offer picturesque landscapes and enchanting surroundings. Lakeside properties often provide exclusive access to spectacular panoramas, water-based activities, and a relaxing atmosphere.

Episode #1

A second home within reach

Make your holiday home dreams come true

Episode #2

Financing your dream second home

Explore financing and define your budget

Episode #3

Second homes and taxes

Discover the impact of a second home on your taxes

Episode #4

Exceptional locations

Where to buy your second home

Episode #5

Rental management and maintenance

The keys to a well-maintained property

Go to episode 5

What our clients say about us.

Piguet Galland offered us a number of different scenarios to help us through this major change in life, retirement.

Noémie Prod'hom
Happiness is knowing that I have someone who will bring their expertise to advise me and ensure my life is carefree.

Marie-Laure Favre
At Piguet Galland, the human factor takes center stage. We genuinely listen to understand and provide solutions, not merely to sell."

M’Bayang Thiam
I wanted to purchase and renovate a house through an auction, which required immediate payment. Fortunately, your company performed exceptionally well."

David Vuadens
Piguet Galland is the financial partner that's close to my heart. I have complete trust in them. In this bank, you get to know them on a personal level, and that's of utmost importance."

Ann Evard
The aspect of the Bank that resonated with me in the past and to this day is trust, which is conveyed through a sense of closeness and, most importantly, a dedicated point of contact."

Anthony Picard
What I value most about Piguet Galland is the service and the trust-based relationship I have built with the various advisors I have worked with over the past thirteen years, all of whom have consistently been excellent."

Dominique Lauener
Throughout the years of building a trusting relationship with Piguet Galland, I have realized that a bank can be a lifelong partner for significant milestones."

Franck Neveu