Many dream of a second home in a beautiful country where they can fully enjoy themselves. More and more people are buying a home abroad, partly due to low interest rates. You don’t have to be a millionaire to do so. However, it is important to inform yourself well in advance. Switzerland has a lot to offer for those looking for a holiday home.

Loan with Swiss bank

If you want to buy a second home in Switzerland, it is advisable not to take any chances overnight. Don’t be blinded by the low interest rate. It is there but keep in mind that you will have to put in quite a bit of your own funds. For example, a Dutch couple buying an apartment in Switzerland had to put in 40% of their own funds because they are foreigners. The other 60% were financed by a local bank. This was not possible with a Dutch bank because Switzerland is not an EU country. For those who want to buy a house in France, Spain or Italy, it is simpler.

Second home abroad

A second home is a great investment. If you are lucky, the value of the house or apartment will rise quickly and you will achieve a nice return. Yet it is better not to do it just for the return. You should buy a second home in Switzerland, or any other country, mainly to enjoy it to the full. It is in fact your second home, and that is something very special.

Tips for a holiday home in Switzerland

If you want to buy a house in Switzerland, you should check carefully that the property does not have a licence to sell to foreigners. This is only the case with a small percentage of houses but they are usually a lot more expensive. You should also consider different tax rates. If you rent out your house or apartment, you have to pay income tax in Switzerland to the municipality, the canton and the country itself. A tip from people who bought a second home in Switzerland: make sure you have a host on site if you are going to rent out. It will save you a lot of worry and make for happy tenants!