Key Insights and Knowledge
Purchasing a ski property in the French Alps is a wonderful lifestyle investment. It offers a second home where you can create cherished memories on and off the slopes during the ski season. Moreover, with many resorts expanding their summer activities, the French Alps are increasingly popular during the summer months.
Why Buy a Property in the French Alps?
Outstanding Skiing
The French Alps boast some of the largest and best ski domains in the world, such as the Three Valleys, the largest interconnected ski area globally with 600km of pistes across eight resorts. Here, you will find renowned ski resorts like Val d’Isère, Courchevel, and Méribel.
Beyond the Slopes
While skiing is the main attraction, there’s plenty to enjoy off the slopes too, from savouring the region’s Michelin-starred cuisine to relaxing in luxurious mountain spas. The summer months are equally appealing, offering activities like hiking, golf, paragliding, and mountain biking, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Investment Potential
Owning a ski property in the French Alps is often an emotional decision, yet it can also be lucrative. With high occupancy rates in winter and increasing rates in summer, there is potential to generate substantial rental income throughout the year. Continuous improvements in ski infrastructure and significant regeneration projects, enhance the prospects for capital appreciation.
What to Consider When Choosing a Ski Property in the French Alps
Proximity to Key Amenities
As with any property purchase, location is crucial. Once you’ve chosen a ski resort in the French Alps, consider the property’s location within the resort. Ski-in ski-out properties offer ultimate convenience but tend to be more expensive. Decide whether you prefer to be central with immediate access to shops, restaurants, and amenities or more secluded where driving to services is necessary.
New Build or Resale?
When buying a home in the French Alps, you have the choice between new builds and resales. Each option has its unique advantages and is largely a matter of personal preference.
Investment Potential
Both new builds and resales can offer wonderful investment opportunities. With consistent demand in winter and growing interest in summer, rental yields can remain strong throughout the year.
New-Build Properties
New-build properties offer several financial incentives. They come with lower notary fees of 2-2.5% compared to 7-8% for resales and may qualify for a VAT rebate, reducing the purchase price. New-builds usually feature modern comforts and no wear and tear, often with guarantees. Buyers can customise off-plan properties by choosing finishes, adjusting layouts, or adding extras like a pool or a jacuzzi.
Resale Properties
While new builds might take time to complete, resale properties are generally available immediately, allowing you to start enjoying or renting them out straight away. Though they come with higher notary fees of around 7-8%, they can be more affordable than comparable new-builds. Buying a resale property also allows you to see and assess the property in person beforehand.
Resort Ambience
Each resort offers a different skiing experience and ambience. For a lively après-ski scene with bars, fine dining, and music, resorts like Val d’Isère, Courchevel, and Méribel Centre are ideal. For a quieter environment, consider villages like Levassaix in Saint-Martin-de-Belleville or Méribel Village. Families should look for resorts awarded the Famille Plus Montagne label, which indicates family-friendly activities and services.
Long-Term Value
When purchasing any property, consider its long-term value. Check for upcoming infrastructure improvements and developments in the resort, as these can significantly increase property value.
Must-Haves
From spacious chalets with private spas to practical ski-in apartments, the variety of properties can be overwhelming. Make a list of essential features like the number of bedrooms and additional amenities such as gym access, concierge services, swimming pools, or spa facilities.
Dual-Season Resorts
With beautiful lakes, hiking trails, mountain biking, and more, the French Alps are ideal for summer holidays too. Consider if the resort is active in the summer, as this can help maximise rental income throughout the year, not just during peak seasons.
Choosing the Right Developer
When buying off-plan, research the developer’s experience with ski properties. Check their previous projects and visit any show properties if possible. This will help you gauge the quality of their work. At Town & Country Property France, we partner selectively with trusted developers who have a proven record of success.