We wish to buy a property in either Valais or Vaud. Agents tell us different things, perhaps what they would like us to hear! If we own a property in Switzerland, how much time can we spend there each year. As Australians we can enter for 3 months, is it as simple as crossing the border overnight and coming back for another 3 months?

We have also been told that if we build a chalet in Nax or Thyon regions we shall pay less taxes and face less obligations than in other areas of Valais. Can this be true, are not all regulations in Valais standard?

Who would be the best person to contact regarding these regulations etc.?

Any help would be appreciated.

No, you can't just skip across the border overnight; the rule is that you can spend no more than half your time here (specifically, no more than 90 days out of any 180-day period) unless you get a residence permit.

It's true that taxes, building codes, etc. will vary from one village to the next, even within the same canton. Who to talk to? Maybe the agent or architect you are thinking of dealing with. If they can't or won't advise you on the differences then perhaps look for someone else with more specialized knowledge of this region.

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Thank you.