The Authenticity of the Swiss Alps on Your Terms

When it comes to the Swiss Alps, BARNES is an expert: from Crans-Montana and Verbier to Zermatt and Gstaad... BARNES is present in Swiss resorts for the most demanding among you, offering an immersive, authentic experience in nature, with some of the most renowned standards of comfort and service in the world. BARNES is the only international network with a local presence in these resorts with on-site experts at your service. Their network and in-depth knowledge of the region will enable you to acquire the property of your dreams.

Our estate agents by resort

Crans-Montana

Discover Crans-Montana: a haven of authenticity where comfort and service meet Alpine landscapes. BARNES opens the doors to this destination, whether you’re looking for an elegant chalet or a modern apartment perfect for every season. Explore Crans-Montana with BARNES, your preferred partner in this unique Alpine resort.

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Gstaad

Welcome to Gstaad, the essence of refinement in the Swiss Alps. BARNES can show you the treasures of this esteemed resort, where Alpine authenticity meets prestigious service. Nestled in the heart of an enchanting setting, our global network supports you by finding the property of your dreams. Whether you hope to find a chalet full of character with breathtaking views, or a more classic apartment to enjoy every season, discover Gstaad with BARNES, your preferred partner for this exceptional destination.

Verbier

Make for Verbier, the epitome of Alpine elegance. With BARNES, discover authenticity and unparalleled comfort. Explore this exceptional setting, whether you're looking for a charming chalet overlooking the mountain peaks or a contemporary apartment. Live the Verbier experience with BARNES, where each property opens the doors to Switzerland.

Zermatt

Welcome to Zermatt, a jewel in the Swiss Alps. BARNES invites you to discover this legendary resort, where the authenticity of the Swiss mountains meets a fine welcome. In the heart of the majestic Alpine landscape, our international network will guide you to find the property that meets your needs. Whether you’re looking for a chalet with a view of the Matterhorn or a typical mountain apartment, explore Zermatt with BARNES, your exclusive partner in this exceptional destination.

What are the conditions for purchasing a property in the mountains?

I am from abroad, and I am looking to acquire a property as a second home. What are the conditions according to the ANRA (Federal Act on the Acquisition of Immovable Property in Switzerland by Foreign Non-Residents)?

The property must be located in a touristic area.
The property must have been built before the Lex Weber, a federal act limiting the construction of second homes.
For a chalet or apartment, the net surface area must not exceed 200 m², or 250 m² where the requirement clause is justified (e.g. large family). For a chalet, the surface area of the land must not exceed 1,000 m², or 1,500 m² in certain cases.
The acquisition is intended for private use. However, renting is authorised on a periodic, non-permanent basis for a maximum of 6 months per year.
“Foreign nationals” cannot acquire more than one holiday accommodation. A married or cohabiting couple is considered to be purchasing a single property. From the age of 18, the child of an owner can acquire property in their own name.
For a period of 5 years, the property cannot be resold, except in cases of force majeure (illness, death, etc.) but without profit.
“Foreign nationals” who are domiciled in Switzerland and hold a B or C permit can acquire property without restrictions.

What is the process for acquiring a property that meets the conditions for purchasing a second home for foreign nationals?

The buyer must choose a notary and will usually be responsible for this cost. Please note that the notary should be situated in the canton where the property was acquired.
The buyer must complete the following forms: a document with all their contact details + a copy of their identity document, as well as the documents “Déclaration d’intention” (declaration of intent) and “Déclaration sur l’honneur” (sworn statement). In addition, a surface area survey certificate (confirmed by an architect) proving the net surface area of the property (usually the responsibility of the purchaser) should also be attached to the file. The buyer must also provide the notary with proof of financing via a banking establishment, either in equity or via a mortgage loan.
From then on, a draft deed will be drawn up by the notary. Once the draft deed has been approved by each party, the notary will send it to the Canton to receive a sales quota for foreigners (pre-authorisation). Upon receipt of this pre-authorisation (quota), the deed of purchase/sale may be signed within a maximum period of 30 days by each party, with a payment of 10% (usual sum, which cannot be paid earlier by the) into the notary office account. Next, the deed will be returned to the Canton by the notary to obtain final authorisation to purchase. Upon receipt of this authorisation, the balance of the sale price can be paid, and the property can be registered in the land register. In general, the time period for such a transaction is approximately 4 to 8 weeks.

What is the process for acquiring a property that meets the conditions for purchasing a second home for foreign nationals?

In Valais, notary fees amount to approximately 3% of the purchase price. This amount includes all costs related to registration in the Land Register, transfers and notary fees. The establishment of a mortgage deed costs approximately 1.2% of the amount. Usually, these costs are the purchaser’s responsibility.

I am an owner looking to sell my property. Who can buy it?

If the property was built after the Lex Weber and bears the mention “main residence”, it can only be acquired by people who will be domiciled for tax purposes at the property's address.
If the property was built before the Lex Weber, without mention of main residence, it can be sold as a secondary residence to people domiciled in Switzerland, or as a secondary residence to foreign nationals (provided that the dwelling does not exceed a net surface area of 200 m²; see possible exemptions up to 250 m², and for chalets, a plot of 1,000 m² or up to 1,500 m² in certain cases). In the latter case, the property must be located in a touristic area. Future buyers will be able to choose the property as their main residence but will retain the possibility of reselling it as a secondary residence.
To resell your property to a “foreign national”, you must have been the owner for at least 5 years. Before this deadline, if you are not a “foreign national” according to the ANRA, your property can be resold to a person of Swiss nationality, or a person domiciled in Switzerland with a B or C permit.
In the event of resale, notary fees are the responsibility of the purchasing party.