Conthey, Valais: Apartments Near Sion and the Alps

Conthey is a wine-growing commune in the Valais, close to the cantonal capital Sion. Vétroz and Ardon lie along the valley floor, and Savièse and Leytron are neighbouring communes in vineyards and foothills. Nendaz is the nearby ski resort, reached by a mountain road. Buyers here are often local families, commuters to Sion, and skiers looking for a base outside the resorts.

Non-EU/EFTA nationals who do not live in Switzerland need authorisation to buy under the Lex Koller rules, and holiday homes are subject to cantonal quotas and resort limits. Residents with a long-term permit have more freedom, but conditions vary. Notary and land-registry costs and cantonal transfer duty are borne by the buyer in varying proportions; verify for Valais. Swiss banks typically need 20% equity, and non-residents face stricter lending. See the Switzerland guide and financing.

Ask for the building's renovation fund, the share of owners, and any restrictions on second-home use. In flats near the slopes, check whether the property is classified as a primary or secondary residence, since that affects who can buy and resell. Look at the Swiss market data.

Ask for the land-register extract, the condominium regulations and the fund for renovations. In Valais, check whether the flat is classed as a primary or secondary residence and what the cantonal rules say on resale. Look at seismic and rockfall hazard maps, which exist for Alpine areas. Property taxes and the imputed rental value tax are cantonal.