When is the right time to sell a property?

1. How do economics and politics affect the property market?

The situation on the property marketplace is shaped by Swiss monetary policy and by general economic and political developments.

Demand for housing in Switzerland remains stable. Factors such as high immigration, rising construction costs and comparatively low construction activity keep supply scarce.

How do interest rates affect the property market?

After a period of increased interest rates, mortgage rates are once again considered to be attractive. This can have a positive impact on the property marketplace and give demand a further boost, as financing costs for buyers tend to fall in such cases.

What does this mean when it comes to choosing the right time to sell?

If you are currently thinking about selling, there is little to be said against it at the moment. However, there is also no immediate time pressure.

In past years, prices have risen moderately – and there is currently no evidence of major short-term changes in property values.

Please note that the regional market situation may differ from the general situation.

2. What is the significance of the location of the property?

The market value of a property also depends on factors relating to the property's location. Major changes in the municipality can have a positive or negative impact on the sales price. Important factors to consider when planning your sale are:

• changes in the character and appearance of your area

• new housing estates

• changes to taxes

• regional economic situation

• tourism

• financial situation of the municipality

Good to know: information about construction projects can usually be obtained from the local municipal office on request.

3. How do the seasons affect the sale of a property?

As shown in an analysis by PriceHubble, seasonal timing has an impact on a sale's success. Residential properties listed in spring or summer tend to generate higher sales prices than properties advertised in autumn or at the beginning of the year.

The highest sales price was achieved by properties advertised in July or August. The lowest prices were expected for properties advertised in February. In figures, this means that if you list your property in June, you will receive an average of 88 francs more per square metre than if you advertise it in February.

4. What tax aspects do I need to keep in mind?

When choosing the right time to sell, be sure to take tax considerations into account too. If you were to make a profit with the sale, you would have to pay a property gains tax. Generally, the amount of the tax is based on the amount of profit, the duration of ownership and the type of use. The exact amount and the calculation vary from one canton to another.

Some cantons apply a property transfer tax regardless of profit. In most cases, it is the buyer who has to pay the tax. Depending on the canton, the seller may have to pay half of the property transfer tax. The time of sale does not affect the amount of property transfer tax.