Buying a home in Ticino: what the notary does, step by step

From the purchase offer to the land-registry entry: the steps of the deed, the costs to plan for and why the notary’s neutrality protects both seller and buyer.

In Switzerland the transfer of a property requires a public deed. In Ticino the notary is an independent professional with a public function: they represent no party but act neutrally to protect both seller and buyer.

The notary verifies title and the charges entered in the land registry, drafts the deed, coordinates the bank for the mortgage and the payment of the price, then handles the registration of the new owner.

The notary verifies title and the charges entered in the land registry, drafts the deed, coordinates the bank for the mortgage and the payment of the price, then handles the registration of the new owner. For buyers domiciled abroad, they assess the applicability of the Lex Koller in advance.

The costs of the transaction include the notarial fee under the cantonal tariff, the registry duties and the creation of any mortgage note. A written quote before the signing avoids surprises and lets you plan the financing precisely.

The information is general and does not constitute legal advice. For your specific case, please contact us.