SWISS ALPS

by Quentin Epiney

FGP Swiss & Alps. Geneva. Switzerland

Which factors characterise the Swiss property market right now?

The Swiss residential property market has seen an almost uninterrupted increase in prices since 1996, despite a slowdown between 2012 and 2017 in the French-speaking part of the country, linked to the delayed consequences of the sub-prime crisis. This extraordinary increase is due to a number of factors that make this market attractive, beyond the restrictions that limit the acquisition of residential property by foreigners. These include, of course, the country's extraordinary political and economic stability, a quality of life that stands out on an international scale, health and transportation infrastructures that are among the best on the planet, as well as unparalleled access to financial and diplomatic hubs, and to the world of luxury, inclusive of haute watch-making.

The Swiss market is therefore an oasis in the heart of Europe that makes it one of the most desirable places to settle down, raise a family and develop or run a successful business. We have a particular expertise in assisting clients wishing to establish themselves in Switzerland, or to invest there, whether in a second home or in a commercial investment vehicle. What drives us in our day to day work, is to introduce our clients to this haven and make remarkable projects become reality.

What is the status of new developments in the area, and could you give us an update on the new developments you are involved with?

While the market remains very demanding, we are particularly active in the field of real estate development and have, through our family group, delivered more than 1000 residential units in 2022, while we have around 500 other units under construction in 2023 and more in the years to come. In addition to the recent delivery of a new neighborhood of 2,500 inhabitants in Geneva, as well as a magnificent complex of 300 rental apartments on the shores of Lake Geneva, including both luxury condominiums and state-sponsored yet high-quality housing for the economically less advantaged, as well as the construction of the headquarters of one of the world's leading private banks; we are now focusing on our ongoing developments.

We have among our most notable projects a new neighborhood of more than 50,000 m2 in the heart of Sion, the capital of the Valais, as well as two luxury second home projects in the charming and up-and-coming Alpine resort of Grimentz, where real estate prices are still very affordable but are increasing as the location gains in reputation. The first of these is the "Guernerés Exclusive Lodge" Ski-in / Ski-out & Spa complex, which overlooks the resort and offers 16 chalets and a high-standing residence, as well as hotel services, a restaurant and a spa - already more than 75% sold. The second project, which will soon be commercialized, "Le Hameau des Bains", consists of the rehabilitation of a historic hotel dating from 1880 and benefiting from a panoramic view of the Weisshorn, with the creation of baths exploiting a still untouched thermal spring, and the realization of tourist residences ranging from 4 to 5 stars depending on the project's stage. Through these projects, we are very proud to participate in the sensitive and responsible development of our regions, for the benefit of all.

Which buyers are attracted to this region?

We are fortunate to work with a very diverse clientele, ranging from Swiss and European clients, notably from the Benelux, the United Kingdom, France and the Nordic countries, to more diversified horizons such as the United States of America, Asia or the Middle East.

What sets life in the Swiss Alps apart, from a lifestyle perspective?

Beyond the many qualities of our country mentioned above, the alpine lifestyle is an approach to healthy living in harmony with nature, without losing the comforts of modern life and while enjoying extraordinary high mountain landscapes. We like to combine sports and outdoor activities with indulgence in wellness, crowned by moments of sharing with friends or family, around a good table, appreciating the many local products or exceptional wines.

By MICHEL CRUZ

PHOTOVOLTAIC OR WHICH WILL LIGHT UP THE WORLD?

After decades of talk and relative inactivity, the world finally seems poised to make the shift to renewable energy sources. Naturally, this process will in itself take several decades to complete, but which out of the possible options will be the energy source with the potential to liberate us from fossil fuel dependency?

Right now we’re only using a fraction of the natural geothermal energy available to us