Posted on 10 March 2020
For the last five years, the Chamonix property market has been one of the top performers of French Alps ski real estate. This is quite an achievement given buyers criteria over the last 20 years are higher than ever before. Gone are the days when buying property was a lifestyle investment or just a holiday home based on emotion, holidays and memories.
These days, first-time buyers want an investment property, good growth in value, short transfer times, rental possibility without stress, and high liquidity should they wish to covert their bricks and mortar investment back into hard cash. Such is the need to capture buyers’ interest, ski resorts had to change their game, and Chamonix is one destination that has done it with style and finesse, resulting in many property sales. So, let us look at what is tempting buyers to part with their cash.
The Chamonix Property Market
1: House Price Growth
For the last three years, Chamonix has shown one of the best capital growth rates on the price index in the French Alps. While it is yet to turn into an alpine source of income, the increase in values attracts buyers looking at long term capital appreciation and affordability. According to the Knight Frank report, for 2019, growth on properties for sale came in at 2.6%, only one place behind popular Val d’Isère. Compare this with sites like Megeve and Davos that showed no capital gains growth and remained static; it proves that home buyers are looking for healthy returns on their property investment.
2: Easy Accessibility
Sitting just 99 kilometres from Geneva airport, Chamonix is easy to get to, making it perfect for weekends getaways, and property investors who renters want to get on the slopes quickly as possible. Tour agencies in resort operate transfer services while many people also hire a car from the airport.
3: House Prices and a Backdoor Resort
Despite the vast interest in Chamonix, home prices per square meter still offer excellent value for money, when compared to a new property, and it now has a reputation as a suitable backdoor resort. These towns and villages offer access to the same ski area, but at a more affordable price. Coming in under Megeve, Meribel, Courchevel and Val d’Isère, Chamonix presents itself as good value when buying a property, whether you look at a one-bedroom apartment or luxury homes.
4: Long Ski Season
Out of all the French and Swiss Alp resorts, Chamonix offers one of the longest skiing seasons. The town has also invested in snowmaking cannons to ensure decent coverage. Compared to places like Combloux and Megeve whose season average 5 to 6 weeks less, this attracts the buy to let investors who want more marketing time for the ski season.
5: Non-Skier Appeal
The same Knight Frank report said the latest estimations are 35% of visitors to the French alps do not ski. While some may see this as a setback, for Chamonix, it just gave them another market to cater for, and they stepped up to offer a wide range of off-slope activities. Step into the Void, the Mer de glace, Mont Blanc tramway and alpine lakes are just a snippet to keep property owners interested when not skiing.
6: Summer Time Fun in Chamonix
Another demand the average buyer has is a range of summer activities. Gone are the days when the French Alps was a winter destination only. Now growing in popularity for year-round tourism, Chamonix steps up to the mark by offering a range of outdoor activities including a par 72, 18 golf course that brings in fans of the sport from around the world.
7: Ongoing Market Development
It would be easy to think with its roaring success, demand for housing, and luxury property market that Chamonix can sit back and enjoy the fruits of its labour. Yet, the local council and business understand things can change in the bat of an eye and ingoing development in local amenities, and infrastructure needs to be the top priority. The latest investment includes 10 million into a beginner’s area and two new chairlifts in the Grand Montets ski area, and the brand-new QC Terme spa that accommodates the growing spa and wellness industry.
8: Gorgeous Mont Blanc View
Last, who does not like a reasonable view that stops in your steps. This is what property owners in Chamonix enjoy from Mont Blanc and its towering appearance. Known as the world’s third most visited natural site, many activities have sprung up around it including a helicopter ride, or you can buy an apartment with a full-frontal view, so every morning is a delight to wake up to.
Further Reading
Chamonix Real Estate: To get an excellent idea of what the Chamonix property market looks like, start your property search by browsing our listings of homes on the market. Including apartments and chalets with traditional alpine architecture, all property listings include useful information like price, location, and features. Just use the enquiry form or telephone number to find out more or arrange a viewing.
Tourist Attractions in Chamonix: Life in the French alps is about more than the ski slopes and, in this article, we look at the most popular off-slope activities. Whether you want a relaxing pastime, or to switch on an adrenaline rush, Chamonix delivers all that and more.
About Us: We are an Alpine estate agent with property for sale in France and Switzerland. With a keen eye on the French property market, we guide homebuyers through the housing market, whether they want an apartment for sale or a chalet. Specialising in new build and off-plan development, budget, and luxury ski homes contact us to tap into our advice and expertise when you buy a property. Also sign up for our monthly email to stay updated with the house price index, property news, and market trends in French estate circles.
