Yes, there are cases where property gains tax can be deferred or waived. The most common case is a replacement purchase, where the proceeds from the sale of a property are used to buy a new property. Here's a general outline:
Replacement Purchase: If you sell your property and immediately invest the proceeds in the purchase of another property, you can apply for a deferral of the property gains tax. The property gain won’t be taxed as long as the money remains invested in a property.
Conditions: To qualify for a deferral, certain conditions, which vary by canton, must be met. Generally, the replacement purchase must be made within a specific time frame, and the new property must be located in Switzerland. Additionally, the new property has to cost at least as much as the old one.
Goal: The deferral of the property gains tax offers a tax incentive for private homeowners who want to stay homeowners.
Effects: The property gains tax is deferred until the new property is sold. If the new property is held until the owner's death, depending on the canton, it may be possible to avoid the property gains tax altogether.
It's important to note that regulations vary from canton to canton. Consulting a tax advisor to get detailed information on the regulations in your canton is recommended to optimise your property gains tax.