Thus, real estate succession is far more than a legal question. It concerns wealth, use, liquidity, responsibility and family relationships. By establishing clear structures early, conflicts can be avoided and maneuvering room secured.
Real estate as a central asset
In more than 80 percent of inheritance cases, real estate is part of the estate. At the same time, prices for single-family homes and condominiums have risen significantly nationwide since 2015, especially in economically strong regions such as Zurich, upper Lake Zurich area, or parts of Eastern Switzerland.
- Annually around CHF 90 to 100 billion are inherited or gifted.
- Real estate is often the largest single asset in the estate.
- Rising property prices increase asset values but also the requirements for maintenance and investments.
- Regional differences are increasing.
- Many owners only address their succession around retirement.
A large portion of Swiss real estate stock is owned by the baby boomer generation. At the same time, decisions around holding, developing, transferring or selling are gaining importance.
Different interests, one solution
Succession becomes particularly challenging when multiple properties and different family interests come together. While some family members want to keep real estate long-term, others want liquidity or a clear separation. The question around the parental home is often especially emotional.
- Should real estate stay in family ownership?
- Which properties are suitable for the next generation?
- How are descendants treated fairly?
- How are dwelling rights, usufructs and decision rights regulated?
- What investments are needed?
- When is a sale more sensible than a hold?
A neutral, market-based valuation of all properties creates a common decision-making basis. On this, ownership, use, decision rights and financial settlement mechanisms can be clearly regulated.
What owners should consider
A sustainable real estate succession begins with the differentiated assessment of each object. Location, condition, use perspective, market environment and investment needs can vary greatly.
- Assess real estate individually: each property has its own opportunities, risks and requirements.
- Create valuations: a market-based valuation is the basis for fair decisions.
- realistically estimate costs: maintenance, renovations and ongoing costs affect the effective value.
- Regulate dwelling rights and usufruct: clear rules provide planning security.
- Define responsibilities: powers of attorney, decision rights and document access should be clarified early.
- Involve participants: transparency reduces conflict potential and strengthens acceptance.
Especially with real estate, a high value does not automatically mean easy divisibility or sufficient liquidity. Therefore, usage, bearing capacity, investment needs and possible sale options should be checked early.
Important practical point
An independent valuation often forms the basis for jointly ordering emotional and financial questions.
Early planning creates security
Missing regulations can lead to blocked inheritance communities, unclear competences or unplanned sales. A structured succession planning helps consider family interests, secure economic values and maintain capacity to act across generations.
Especially with more complex real estate portfolios, professional support is recommended. An independent valuation, clear structures and early involvement of all parties form the foundation for a sustainable long-term succession solution.