Are you still saving or already living? Those who regularly set aside money can fulfil their dream of a self-determined life in their own home with a sustainable savings plan. But where do you start and how long does it take? Swiss Life answers the most important questions about saving for your own property.

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More than three quarters of young Swiss would like to own their own home at some point in the future. They regularly set money aside to make sure it doesn’t just remain a wish. 

According to the 2019 Swiss Life residential study, families with children living in their own home have been saving for eight years. Most property purchases were made when the buyers were aged between 30 and 39. But where do you start and how do you save? Swiss Life offers helpful savings tips and shows how you can afford the dream of a self-determined life in your own property.

Five tips for saving

1.) Create a budget

Create a budget by comparing your income and expenses. This allows you to see at a glance what income you receive per month, how much you spend and where there is potential for savings.

2.) Define savings targets

Set realistic savings targets that you can meet. Don't overdo yourself, because that could only frustrate you. 

3.) Keep expenses under control

Go through your expenses and think about what you could do without. Does it always have to be the expensive coffee to go or an Uber to go home with? The amounts you save add up. When making larger investments, you should also consider whether you really need them and compare prices. You should also check your credit card statements and account statements regularly: are there regular debits, e.g. for subscriptions that are not required?

4.) Set up a standing order for a fund-based savings plan

Set up a monthly standing order with a defined savings amount, which is deducted from your account at the beginning of the month and paid into a fund-based savings plan. This means that the money is no longer in your account and can no longer be spent. Thanks to the average price method, i.e. the regular purchases of fund units, you are on the safe side even when markets fluctuate.

5.) Save with pillar 3

By paying into pillar 3a, you not only save on taxes, you can also benefit from higher interest rates.

Pillar 3a

Set up a monthly savings instalment to pay into pillar 3a and benefit from favourable taxes.

Would you like to arrange a consultation?

Young people in particular often ask themselves how and if they can afford their own residential property at all, precisely because they have not yet saved enough and provided for their future provisions. Our experts would be happy to advise you on how to make your dream of owning your own home come true.

How can I raise enough equity?

There is a big hurdle to overcome when buying a house: 20% equity. We show you which financing options you have – for a self-determined life in your own four walls.

Take out a mortgage – how do I finance my dream of owning a home?

Fixed-rate mortgage, Variable mortgage or SARON mortgage? We answer your most important questions about financing your home purchase.

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