Buying a house in neighboring France: a good alternative for Swiss citizens?

introduction

More and more Swiss are choosing to buy their own home in neighboring France, especially in the border regions around Geneva, Lausanne, and Basel. This allows them to benefit from more attractive property prices while remaining close to Switzerland. But is this really a good alternative?

In this guide, we compare the pros and cons, costs, and tax regulations for Swiss citizens considering purchasing property in neighboring France in 2025.

The real estate market in neighboring France in 2025

Border regions such as Ain (Pays de Gex) , Haute-Savoie (Annemasse, Thonon, Évian) and Haut-Rhin (Saint-Louis, Mulhouse) are experiencing strong demand from the Swiss.

• Price per m² : approx. 3,500 to 6,000 €/m², depending on proximity to Geneva or Lausanne, often 2 to 3 times cheaper than in Switzerland.

• Easy access : no restrictions for Swiss citizens, unlike Lex Koller.

• Franco-Swiss taxation : regulated by bilateral agreements to avoid double taxation.

Expert summary : By buying in neighboring France, you can acquire real estate that is two to three times cheaper than in Switzerland, but you will have to deal with cross-border taxation.

Advantages of buying a house in neighboring France

Advantages	Details
Attractive prices	Up to 50% cheaper than in Switzerland for comparable goods
Larger area	More accessible gardens, villas and properties
Unrestricted access	The Swiss can shop freely
Taxation on resale	More advantageous for longer imprisonment

Disadvantages and cautions

Disadvantages	Details
Double taxation	Declaration obligation for income in France and Switzerland (double taxation agreement)
transport	Heavy daily traffic at the borders, long travel times
Public services	Level is sometimes perceived as lower (schools, health) compared to Switzerland
Exchange rate	Purchase and credit in euros → dependence on the Swiss franc

Steps to buying in neighboring France as a Swiss citizen

1. Prepare your financing

• French banks offer loans to Swiss citizens, but often require a down payment of 20–30% .

• Possibility of borrowing from a Swiss bank with a mortgage in CHF , but less frequent.

2. Select the location

• Pays de Gex and Haute-Savoie : proximity to Geneva and Lausanne, high demand, higher prices.

• Haut-Rhin (Saint-Louis) : ideal for those living near Basel.

• Doubs, French Jura : cheaper, but longer journeys.

3. Signature and notary

• The purchase is carried out under French law (promise of purchase, signature before a notary).

• Notary fees in France: 7 to 8% of the purchase price (higher than in Switzerland).

Taxation of Swiss property owners in neighboring France

• Property tax : Due annually in France.

• Real Estate Asset Tax (IFI) : applicable if the real estate assets are > 1.3 million euros.

• Income from real estate : is taxed in France when rented, but can also be declared in Switzerland (with tax credit).

• Franco-Swiss tax treaty : avoids double taxation but requires careful planning.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

Can a Swiss citizen freely buy a house in France?

Yes, there are no restrictions for Swiss citizens to purchase property in France.

How much does it cost to buy in neighboring France?

They amount to approximately 7 to 8% of the property price (notary fees + registration).

Is it better to take out a loan in France or Switzerland?

In France, interest rates are often competitive, but the loan is granted in euros. In Switzerland, some banks offer financing, but the conditions are stricter.

Do I have to pay taxes in France if I live in Switzerland?

Yes, property owners in France must pay property tax and declare their income. The bilateral agreement completely avoids double taxation.

Conclusion: Buying a house in France near Switzerland

Buying a home in neighboring France will remain an attractive option for Swiss residents seeking space and lower prices in 2025. However, it's important to consider the tax implications, travel time, and additional costs before deciding to purchase.

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Update

This article is regularly updated to reflect developments in the Franco-Swiss real estate market (last updated: October 2025).