Buying an Existing Secondary Residence in Switzerland

Why existing secondary residences are the only option

In Lex Weber-restricted municipalities, no new secondary residences can be built. The only way to acquire a secondary residence in Montreux is to purchase one that already exists — a property that was classified as a secondary residence before the law came into force in 2016.

This means the market for secondary residences in Montreux is a resale market. Buyers are purchasing from existing owners, not from developers. The available stock is finite and turns over only when owners choose to sell.

Verifying secondary residence status

Before purchasing a property as a secondary residence, buyers should verify that it is correctly classified. The land register extract (extrait du registre foncier) will show the property's classification and any registered restrictions. The notary will confirm the classification as part of the transaction process.

Buyers should also verify that the property does not carry any conditions that would prevent its use as a secondary residence — for example, a condition requiring it to be used as a primary residence, which can be attached to properties built under certain planning permissions.

The purchase process

Purchasing an existing secondary residence in Montreux follows the standard Swiss property purchase process. The buyer and seller agree on terms, the notary prepares the purchase contract, and the transaction is completed at the notary's office. The notary registers the transfer in the land register.

For non-resident foreign buyers, the process includes an additional step: the Lex Koller authorisation application. The property must carry Foreign Buyer Eligible status, and the buyer must apply for cantonal authorisation within the annual quota.

Due diligence considerations

Due diligence for an existing secondary residence should cover the property's physical condition, legal status, any outstanding charges or mortgages, and the accuracy of the stated size and classification. Buyers should also verify that any renovations or extensions were carried out with proper planning permission.

For older properties, it is worth checking whether any renovation or modernisation work is needed and factoring this into the purchase price negotiation.

Key points

• Existing secondary residences are the only option in Lex Weber-restricted municipalities
• Verify secondary residence classification in the land register before purchase
• Check for any conditions restricting use as a secondary residence
• Non-resident foreign buyers must also satisfy Lex Koller requirements
• Due diligence should cover physical condition, legal status and planning compliance