720 people search each month for "additional costs buying a house in Switzerland". Many buyers underestimate the additional costs of a property purchase. Beyond the purchase price, taxes, fees and further costs arise which, depending on the canton, amount to 1-5% of the purchase price.
The 6 Cost Categories at a Glance
1. Property transfer tax (0-3.3%)
The largest variable. From 0% in Zurich and Zug up to 3.3% in Vaud. Detailed guide →
2. Land registry fee (0.1-0.3%)
For registering the transfer of ownership in the land registry. Due in all cantons.
3. Notary costs (0.1-0.5%)
Public notarisation of the purchase contract is mandatory in Switzerland. The costs vary depending on the canton and the purchase price.
4. Mortgage costs (one-off)
- Establishment of the mortgage note: 0.1-0.3% of the mortgage amount
- Bank processing fee: 0-0.5% (negotiable!)
- Valuation fee: CHF 500-2'000 (often covered by the bank)
5. Moving and furnishing costs
- Moving company: CHF 2'000-8'000
- Renovation/adaptations: Individual
- Insurance: Building, household contents (annual premiums)
6. Recurring additional costs (annually)
- Maintenance reserve: 1% of the purchase price/year (rule of thumb)
- Building/earthquake insurance: CHF 500-2'000/year
- Water, wastewater, refuse collection: Municipality-specific
Total Cost Example: CHF 1.5 Million House in the Canton of Lucerne
| Cost category | Amount |
|---|---|
| Property transfer tax (1.5% split in half = 0.75%) | CHF 11'250 |
| Land registry fee (0.1%) | CHF 1'500 |
| Notary costs (0.2%) | CHF 3'000 |
| Mortgage note (0.2% on CHF 1.2M mortgage) | CHF 2'400 |
| Valuation + bank processing | CHF 1'500 |
| Moving | CHF 4'000 |
| Total one-off | CHF 23'650 (~1.6%) |
Calculate Your Exact Additional Costs
Our property transfer cost calculator shows all cantonal fees at a glance.
To the cost calculator →Average figures, as of April 2026. Individual costs may vary.