Question 1

What is Swiss Private Group?

Accepted Answer

Swiss Private Group is an independent private client advisory brand based in Montreux, on the Swiss Riviera. It was launched in 2026 by Evgenia Sander, an international real estate professional with sixteen years of experience across Switzerland, Monaco, the French Riviera and selected European markets.

Question 2

What does Swiss Private Group do?

Accepted Answer

Swiss Private Group provides discreet, personalised real estate advisory services to private clients, family offices and professional intermediaries. Services include access to selected off-market and on-market residential properties in Switzerland and selected international markets, buyer representation, market intelligence and transaction coordination.

Question 3

Where is Swiss Private Group based?

Accepted Answer

Swiss Private Group is based in Montreux, on the Swiss Riviera, in the Canton of Vaud. The Swiss Riviera provides a central and well-connected base for serving private clients across Switzerland and internationally.

Question 4

Who founded Swiss Private Group?

Accepted Answer

Swiss Private Group was founded by Evgenia Sander, an international real estate professional with sixteen years of experience across Switzerland, Monaco, the French Riviera and selected European markets. Evgenia Sander works directly with each client and manages all client relationships personally.

Question 5

Is Swiss Private Group a real estate agency?

Accepted Answer

Swiss Private Group operates as an independent private client advisory brand. It is not a traditional real estate agency. The focus is on providing discreet, personalised advisory services to a carefully selected group of private clients, family offices and professional partners.

Question 6

Who does Swiss Private Group work with?

Accepted Answer

Swiss Private Group works with private individuals, families, family offices, wealth managers, private banks and professional intermediaries who are seeking selected residential property opportunities in Switzerland and selected international markets.

Question 7

How do I begin working with Swiss Private Group?

Accepted Answer

The first step is a private introductory conversation. You may contact Swiss Private Group directly through the contact page or by submitting an enquiry. All initial enquiries are treated with complete discretion.

Question 8

Does Swiss Private Group work with international clients?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Swiss Private Group is internationally connected and regularly works with clients based outside Switzerland, including clients from Europe, the Middle East, Asia and other international markets who are seeking residential property in Switzerland or selected international locations.

Question 9

Does Swiss Private Group charge fees to buyers?

Accepted Answer

Fee arrangements depend on the nature of the mandate and the specific transaction. This is discussed transparently at the outset of any engagement. Swiss Private Group does not charge speculative or exploratory fees.

Question 10

Can Swiss Private Group assist with relocation to Switzerland?

Accepted Answer

Swiss Private Group can assist with the property search and acquisition aspects of a relocation to Switzerland. For broader relocation services, including residency planning, tax structuring and administrative matters, we may coordinate introductions to relevant specialists within our network.

Question 11

What makes the Swiss real estate market distinctive?

Accepted Answer

The Swiss real estate market is characterised by stability, discretion and long-term value preservation. Switzerland has consistently maintained one of the most resilient property markets in the world, supported by political neutrality, a strong legal framework, a stable currency and a high quality of life.

The market for prime residential property in Switzerland is relatively illiquid compared to other major markets, which contributes to its stability. Off-market transactions are common at the upper end of the market, and access to the best properties often depends on established professional relationships.

Question 12

Which Swiss regions does Swiss Private Group focus on?

Accepted Answer

Swiss Private Group focuses primarily on the Swiss Riviera (Montreux, Vevey, Villeneuve), the Lake Geneva region (Geneva, Lausanne, Nyon), the Verbier and Crans-Montana ski resort areas, and selected other Swiss markets including Zurich, Basel and Lugano. International markets include Monaco, the French Riviera and selected European locations.

Question 13

What types of property does Swiss Private Group advise on?

Accepted Answer

Swiss Private Group advises on selected prime residential properties, including private villas, historic estates, prestigious apartments, chalets and selected development opportunities. The focus is on properties that offer genuine quality, privacy and long-term value.

Question 14

What is the typical price range of properties Swiss Private Group works with?

Accepted Answer

Swiss Private Group focuses on the prime and ultra-prime residential market. Properties typically start from CHF 2 million, with many mandates in the CHF 5 million to CHF 50 million range and above. Each mandate is considered individually.

Question 15

Are off-market properties available through Swiss Private Group?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Access to off-market properties is a core part of the Swiss Private Group service. Many of the most exceptional properties in Switzerland are never publicly listed and are transacted exclusively through trusted professional networks. Swiss Private Group maintains established relationships that provide access to selected off-market opportunities.

Question 16

What is Lex Koller?

Accepted Answer

Lex Koller is the Swiss federal law that restricts the acquisition of residential real estate in Switzerland by foreign nationals who are not resident in Switzerland. The law is formally known as the Federal Act on the Acquisition of Immovable Property by Persons Abroad (Bundesgesetz über den Erwerb von Grundstücken durch Personen im Ausland — BewG).

The purpose of Lex Koller is to limit foreign ownership of Swiss residential property and to prevent excessive foreign investment in the Swiss real estate market.

Question 17

Who is subject to Lex Koller restrictions?

Accepted Answer

Lex Koller applies to foreign nationals who are not resident in Switzerland and to certain legal entities. EU and EFTA nationals who hold a valid Swiss residence permit (B or C permit) are generally treated in the same way as Swiss nationals for the purposes of Lex Koller and may purchase residential property without restriction.

Non-EU/EFTA nationals who are not resident in Switzerland are generally subject to Lex Koller restrictions and may require a cantonal permit to acquire residential property. The availability of such permits is limited and subject to cantonal quotas.

Question 18

Can foreign nationals buy property in Switzerland?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the nationality and residency status of the buyer, the type of property and its location. Swiss residents (regardless of nationality) can generally purchase residential property without Lex Koller restrictions.

Non-resident foreign nationals may be able to acquire property in designated tourist zones in certain cantons (such as Valais, Vaud and Graubünden) subject to cantonal permits and annual quotas. The number of permits available is limited.

We strongly recommend obtaining specialist Swiss legal advice before proceeding with any property acquisition in Switzerland.

Question 19

Does Lex Koller apply to rental properties?

Accepted Answer

No. Lex Koller applies to the acquisition (purchase) of residential real estate. It does not apply to rental arrangements. Foreign nationals may rent residential property in Switzerland without restriction.

Question 20

Does Lex Koller apply to commercial property?

Accepted Answer

Lex Koller generally does not apply to commercial real estate. However, the distinction between residential and commercial use can be complex in certain cases, and specialist legal advice is recommended.

Question 21

What is a tourist zone property under Lex Koller?

Accepted Answer

Certain cantons have designated tourist zones where non-resident foreign nationals may be permitted to acquire residential property, subject to cantonal permits and annual quotas. These zones are typically located in ski resorts and lakeside tourist areas. Examples include parts of Valais (Verbier, Zermatt, Crans-Montana), parts of Vaud (Villars, Les Diablerets) and parts of Graubünden (St. Moritz, Davos). The number of permits issued annually is strictly limited.

Question 22

Can Swiss Private Group advise on Lex Koller eligibility?

Accepted Answer

Swiss Private Group can provide general information about Lex Koller as part of the advisory process. However, Lex Koller eligibility assessments and formal legal advice must be provided by qualified Swiss lawyers or notaries. Swiss Private Group may coordinate introductions to relevant legal professionals where required.

Question 23

What is the typical process for acquiring residential property in Switzerland?

Accepted Answer

The Swiss property acquisition process typically involves the following stages: property identification and due diligence; negotiation of terms; preparation of the purchase agreement (Kaufvertrag) by a notary; signing of the notarised purchase agreement; payment of the purchase price; and registration of the transfer in the land register (Grundbuch).

In Switzerland, property transactions must be notarised. The notary plays a central role in the transaction and is responsible for preparing and authenticating the purchase agreement and registering the transfer.

Question 24

How long does a Swiss property acquisition typically take?

Accepted Answer

The timeline varies depending on the complexity of the transaction, the canton and the parties involved. A straightforward acquisition can be completed in four to eight weeks from agreement of terms. More complex transactions, or those involving Lex Koller permit applications, may take longer.

Question 25

What costs are involved in acquiring property in Switzerland?

Accepted Answer

Typical acquisition costs in Switzerland include notary fees, land register fees, transfer taxes (where applicable) and any applicable cantonal taxes. Total transaction costs typically range from approximately 3% to 5% of the purchase price, depending on the canton.

Buyers should also budget for legal advice, any applicable Lex Koller permit fees and, where relevant, mortgage arrangement costs.

Question 26

Is mortgage financing available for property purchases in Switzerland?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Swiss banks and private lenders offer mortgage financing for residential property purchases in Switzerland. Financing terms and availability depend on the buyer's profile, residency status and the property in question. Swiss Private Group may coordinate introductions to relevant financing professionals where required.

Question 27

What due diligence should be conducted before purchasing Swiss property?

Accepted Answer

Due diligence for Swiss property acquisitions typically includes: review of the land register extract (Grundbuchauszug); verification of ownership and any encumbrances; review of building permits and planning documentation; structural and technical inspection; review of any applicable Lex Koller restrictions; and, where relevant, review of ownership structure and tax implications.

Swiss Private Group coordinates the due diligence process and may introduce clients to relevant specialists, including lawyers, notaries, surveyors and tax advisors.

Question 28

What makes the Swiss Riviera an attractive residential market?

Accepted Answer

The Swiss Riviera — encompassing Montreux, Vevey and the surrounding area — offers an exceptional combination of natural beauty, cultural heritage, international connectivity and residential quality. The area is home to a significant international community, prestigious schools, luxury hotels and a well-established private client infrastructure. The lakeside setting, Alpine backdrop and mild microclimate make it one of the most desirable residential environments in Switzerland.

Question 29

What is the property market like in Geneva?

Accepted Answer

Geneva is one of the most international cities in the world and home to a large community of diplomats, international organisation staff, private bankers and high-net-worth individuals. The prime residential market in Geneva is characterised by limited supply, strong demand and high prices. Off-market transactions are common at the upper end of the market.

Question 30

What is the property market like in Verbier?

Accepted Answer

Verbier is one of Switzerland's most prestigious ski resorts and a significant international property market. The resort attracts a wealthy international clientele and is known for its exceptional skiing, vibrant social scene and strong rental demand. Property in Verbier is subject to Lex Koller tourist zone restrictions for non-resident foreign buyers.

Question 31

Does Swiss Private Group advise on properties in Monaco and the French Riviera?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Swiss Private Group has established connections in Monaco and on the French Riviera and can provide advisory support for clients seeking residential property in these markets. These markets are often relevant to clients who divide their time between Switzerland and the Mediterranean.

Question 32

What types of professional partners does Swiss Private Group work with?

Accepted Answer

Swiss Private Group works with family offices, wealth managers, private banks, fiduciaries, trustees, lawyers, notaries and other trusted referral partners who represent private clients seeking selected residential property opportunities in Switzerland and selected international markets.

Question 33

How does Swiss Private Group work with professional intermediaries?

Accepted Answer

Swiss Private Group works on a referral and coordination basis with trusted professional intermediaries. We provide market access, property advisory and transaction coordination support for clients referred by professional partners, and may coordinate introductions to other relevant professionals within our network.

Question 34

Does Swiss Private Group work with international professional partners?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Swiss Private Group is internationally connected and works with professional partners based in Switzerland and internationally, including family offices, wealth managers and private banks serving clients with interests in Switzerland and selected international markets.

Question 35

Does Swiss Private Group provide tax advice?

Accepted Answer

No. Swiss Private Group does not provide tax advice. Where tax structuring, residency planning or ownership planning is required, we may introduce clients to qualified Swiss or international tax advisors.

Question 36

Does Swiss Private Group provide legal advice?

Accepted Answer

No. Swiss Private Group does not provide legal advice. Swiss property acquisitions, Lex Koller questions, ownership structures and transaction documents should be reviewed by qualified legal professionals. We may assist clients by coordinating introductions to notaries, lawyers and other relevant advisors.

Question 37

Does Swiss Private Group provide financial or investment advice?

Accepted Answer

No. Swiss Private Group does not provide regulated financial or investment advice. We provide real estate advisory, market intelligence, property access and coordination support. Clients should obtain independent financial advice where required.

Question 38

Can Swiss Private Group recommend lawyers, notaries or tax advisors?

Accepted Answer

Swiss Private Group may coordinate introductions to qualified professionals within our network, including lawyers, notaries, fiduciaries and tax advisors. Any such introduction is made on the basis of professional familiarity and does not constitute a formal recommendation or endorsement. Clients should conduct their own due diligence when engaging professional advisors.

Swiss Real Estate Q&A

About Swiss Private Group

Working with Swiss Private Group

Swiss Real Estate Market

Lex Koller & Foreign Buyers

Property Acquisition Process

Regional Markets

Professional Partners

Legal, Tax and Financial Advice

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