Swiss Holiday Homes: Who’s Buying?

There’s nothing like an alpine holiday to unwind: vast, snow-capped mountains, shredding slopes, and a bit of apres-ski fun. The only downside? All that packing and planning – two issues that are solved if one owns their own holiday home. This is probably why 95 percent of Andermatt Swiss Alps’ latest development, Koya, was snapped up for reservation just two weeks into the waiting list launch.

Singaporeans, it seems, are particularly enamored with the Alps – making up an outsized 8 percent of all buyers. While halting virtually all travel, the pandemic, it seems, has had a positive effect on sales of alpine property. Says Maureen Yeo, Regional Director Asia at Andermatt Swiss Alps, “We sold more properties in 2020 than we did the year before, and two of the key reasons are the market volatility and low-interest rates, which prompted people to invest in brick-and-mortar.”

While more people are buying holiday homes – whether for investment, pleasure, or both – their needs and wants are also changing due to the pandemic. Owners are seeking better returns on their properties by purchasing second and holiday homes in locations that offer a full calendar of activities, and consequently the opportunity for full occupancy, throughout the year.

More importantly, though, the homes aren’t just seen as just a place to stay anymore – but a gateway to wellness. “People will be looking for destinations where they can connect with each other as well as with nature; and also a place where there are health and wellbeing facilities where they can rest and relax – both of which Andermatt Swiss Alps cater to,” shares Yeo.