Real estate law for purchase of property by persons from foreign countries (Lex Friedrich):

Until October 1997, the purchase of properties by persons from foreign countries could generally only have been done with an official permit. Since revisions were made to this law, the following exceptions are now possible:

Companies purchasing property: Foreign companies are allowed to buy properties (e.g., land, buildings) for company use, including land reserves, without any permission. Swiss law, however, does not allow foreign companies to buy land only as an investment property. Investors uncertain about specific circumstances are recommended to contact the Economic Development office.

Prices of existing buildings depend on location and condition. Typical prices are shown in the table below:

Offices, small business and industrial space: In Schaffhausen rental properties are available at low cost. Rental rates vary according to location, unfinished vs. finished interiors, and the length of the rental contract. The prices are approximately 10 to 40 percent less than those in neighboring economic regions of Zurich.