Knowing what you want

Purchasing a property is a significant commitment that often needs to be made within a limited timeframe. Rather than focusing on timing, the priority should be careful preparation and a clear definition of your objectives.

Before taking this major step, it is essential to understand the differences between cantons in terms of property prices, taxation and health insurance premiums. Each canton has its own economic, tax and social characteristics, which can significantly influence your decision.

A thoughtful comparison of these elements will enable you to make an informed decision, aligned with both your lifestyle and financial goals.

Geneva

Living in Geneva offers an exceptional lifestyle. Nestled along the shores of Lake Geneva, this cosmopolitan city blends urban sophistication with an extraordinary natural backdrop. As home to numerous international organisations, it brings a global dimension to everyday life. Its prestigious museums, such as the Museum of Art and History, and renowned academic institutions like the University of Geneva further enrich its cultural appeal. With its cultural diversity, professional opportunities and outstanding quality of life, Geneva stands out as an exceptional place of residence among Swiss cantons.

Vaud

The canton of Vaud offers a perfect harmony between vibrant urban life and breathtaking natural surroundings. Its renowned museums, such as Lausanne’s Collection de l’Art Brut, and prestigious academic institutions, including the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL), enrich both its cultural and educational landscape. With its exceptional quality of life, efficient transport network, and setting between lakes and mountains, Vaud stands out as an incomparable residential choice among Swiss cantons.

Family structure

Define the number of people who will live in the home, including yourself, your partner, and any children, current or future.
Use of the space

Try to identify your needs when hosting guests. You may want a spacious living area, a guest bedroom, or a dedicated guest bathroom. And if someone in the household works from home, consider including a separate office space.
Lifestyle and hobbies

Identify your family’s indoor and leisure activities, whether it’s DIY, music, or mountain biking. Consider whether features like a wine cellar, a conservatory, or a low‑maintenance garden would enhance your lifestyle.
Environment

Make sure to identify any elements that could affect your comfort, such as industrial buildings, busy roads, or any other potential sources of disturbance.

Episode #1

Buying a home: a winning decision

Let this series accompany you, step by step, on your journey to owning your primary residence.

Go to Episode 1

Episode #2

Knowing what you want

Building your own home is a major investment that deserves careful consideration of your needs and aspirations.

Episode #3

Setting the right budget

Determine the maximum amount you can reasonably commit to acquiring your primary residence, taking into account your overall financial position.

Go to episode 3

Episode #4

The right financing for your project

From traditional mortgages to Lombard loans, explore the key features of fixed, variable and SARON-based interest rates.

Go to Episode 4

Episode #5

Understanding property taxes

Becoming a homeowner is a major milestone that comes with specific tax considerations. Purchasing a property involves a range of tax implications that should be carefully assessed.

Go to Episode 5

What our clients say about us.

Piguet Galland offered us a number of different scenarios to help us through this major change in life, retirement.
Happiness is knowing that I have someone who will bring their expertise to advise me and ensure my life is carefree.
At Piguet Galland, the human factor takes center stage. We genuinely listen to understand and provide solutions, not merely to sell."
I wanted to purchase and renovate a house through an auction, which required immediate payment. Fortunately, your company performed exceptionally well."
Piguet Galland is the financial partner that's close to my heart. I have complete trust in them. In this bank, you get to know them on a personal level, and that's of utmost importance."
The aspect of the Bank that resonated with me in the past and to this day is trust, which is conveyed through a sense of closeness and, most importantly, a dedicated point of contact."
What I value most about Piguet Galland is the service and the trust-based relationship I have built with the various advisors I have worked with over the past thirteen years, all of whom have consistently been excellent."
Throughout the years of building a trusting relationship with Piguet Galland, I have realized that a bank can be a lifelong partner for significant milestones."