Q&A - Buying a property

Buying a property in Verbier or the Val de Bagnes

Whether you are planning to buy a traditional chalet, apartment, building land or commercial premises, we are on hand to help. Here are some straightforward answers to the most frequently questions about buying a property in the region.
Does a Swiss buyer need authorisation to purchase a property in Verbier?
There are no restrictions on buying. Nationals from EU or EFTA member states who wish to settle in Switzerland (as their main residence) can obtain a B permit without difficulty.

The purchase is unrestricted. Nationals of EU and EFTA member states who wish to settle in Switzerland (as their primary residence) can obtain a B permit without difficulty.

You must obtain an authorisation issued by the Canton of Valais, depending on the quota available. The quota refers to the limited number of second homes that can be sold to foreigners within a canton.

Resales from one foreigner to another foreigner are not subject to the quota system.

Only one unit per family is authorised but a child over the age of 18 can purchase a property in their name.

  • The property must be located in a “tourist” area (such as Verbier-Station or Le Mayens-de-Bruson)
  • Second home with a maximum net surface area of 200 m2 (but with a margin of tolerance depending on the buyer’s needs (larger or smaller family)).
  • A plot of land of 1,000 m2 maximum and obligation to build within a reasonable time frame.
  • The purchase authorisation includes a ban on resale within five years.

Legal costs amount to around 3% of the purchase price, including the notary’s fees and registration costs.

  • Resale – new habitable property: A deposit of 10% is required when the contract is signed. The balance is payable before the contract is filed at the Land Register Office.
  • New under construction: A deposit of 10% is paid when the contract is signed. The balance will be paid in instalments as the works progress.

Shared charges: These amount to around CHF 50.00/m2 (concierge services, heating, insurance premiums, electricity consumption for common areas, snow clearance, commonhold property administration, social security contributions and drainage charges) + the contribution to the sinking fund.

Annual taxes: Taxes vary depending on the taxpayer’s assets and income, and the rental value of the property.

Verbier tourist taxes: Fixed sums for owners are calculated based on the number of rooms (Studio CHF 320.00 / 2 rooms CHF 480.00 / 3 rooms CHF 640.00 / 4 rooms CHF 800.00 / 5 rooms CHF 960.00 / 6 rooms CHF 1,120.00).

Fire and water damage to furniture insurance: Around CHF 200.00 to 400.00 a year, depending on the amount of insurance cover.

Banks require a higher deposit for the purchase of a second home, of between 40% and 50% of the sale price. They will provide information on current rates and the conditions that apply to obtaining a mortgage.