Document background
The Real Estate Contract of Sale is a fundamental document in Swiss property transactions, essential for legally transferring real estate ownership between parties. This contract type must be executed in accordance with Swiss federal and cantonal laws, requiring public authentication (notarization) to be legally valid. It is used whenever real property is being sold in Switzerland, whether for residential, commercial, or industrial purposes. The document includes crucial information such as precise property details, purchase price, payment terms, warranties, and specific conditions for transfer. It must address various Swiss legal requirements including land registry regulations, anti-money laundering provisions, and, where applicable, Lex Koller restrictions for foreign buyers. The contract serves as the basis for updating the land register (Grundbuch) and typically involves multiple stakeholders including notaries, banks, and government authorities.
