Right of pre-emption

A right of pre-emption allows the beneficiary to step into a sale when the owner sells the property to another person, usually on the same terms. In Switzerland it may arise by law or contract and is especially relevant for real estate, co-ownership and agricultural land. Contractual rights concerning land are commonly notarised and may be entered in the land register to strengthen their effect. The right does not normally force the owner to sell; it is triggered by a qualifying sale or equivalent transaction.