For real estate, each region is free to define their own valuation rules. In Zurich, either 70% of the previous transaction value is used, or a conservative val

For real estate, each region is free to define their own valuation rules. In Zurich, either 70% of the previous transaction value is used, or a conservative value based on size and location, whichever is higher. This value is often also the basis for the self-rent-tax. (In Switzerland, the amount you could earn by renting out a self-inhabited property is taxed as income. Not doing so would give homeowners an unfair advantage in comparison to renters.) Paintings and jewelry are only taxed if they make an unusually high share of your wealth, i.e. if you are a collector. Again, the exact guidelines vary depending on where you live. Here are the official guidelines for valuing real estate in Zurich (in German): http://www.steueramt.zh.ch/internet/finanzdirektion/ksta/de/steuerfragen/liegenschaftenbewertung/_jcr_content/contentPar/downloadlist/downloaditems/247_1306239562487.spooler.download.1452004776538.pdf/15-502_per+1.1.2016.pdf http://www.steueramt.zh.ch/internet/finanzdirektion/ksta/de/... Note that you do not have to apply these rules yourself. Instead, the local tax office performs the calculation and notifies you about the result. If you disagree, this result can be contested, but generally, you do not need to familiarize yourself with all the details.