Posted on 19 May 2020
To invest in the Courchevel property market is to buy into one of France’s most prestigious destinations. The ski resort comprising four small villages carries with it a reputation for opulence and luxury of the highest quality. There is no compromise on excellence, and over the decades, this drive towards the finer side of life has led celebrities, royalty, wealthy businesspeople, and real estate investors to flock to the area.
Sitting in Les Trois Vallees area of the French Alps, homeowners have the added luxury of enjoying the world’s largest linked ski area with various degrees of slopes accommodating everyone from the novice to experienced. To understand just how luxurious this market is, two of its hotels score a 6-star rating, many high-end boutique shops, and several Michelin star restaurants serve only the finest of cuisine to discerning diners.
But what do real estate investors and anyone looking at properties for sale needs to know?
About the Courchevel Property Market
1: Where to Buy?
Courchevel breaks down into four smaller resorts that were all named after their altitude; 1300, 1550, 1650 and 1850. The major resort centre sits in the middle of them all. However, several years back, names were changed, and 1650 was renamed Courchevel Moriond, 1550 is the village, 1330 is Le Praz, and Courchevel 1850 dropped the altitude. It is the latter that commands the most fame, and where property prices per square meter at the highest. In recent years, backdoor ski resorts have become popular. These destinations offer the same access to the skiing centres but at a fraction of the price. As a result, some people who find Courchevel above their budget often choose Meribel instead.
2: Reasons to Buy Property in Courchevel
Aside from the picturesque centre, top-class skiing activities and a real estate market that commands respect, another big reason to buy is the diversification of its tourism industry, which will be ideal for buy-to-let investors. More ski resorts are turning to summer activities to keep people coming back month after month. During Spring to Autumn, Courchevel attracts outdoor enthusiasts who can tap into a wide range of activities. Mountain biking is an extensive business, while at 2000 metres high, the 9-hole golf courses attract enthusiasts from around the world. Lured in by the scenic green rolling hills and the mountain air, walkers, trekkers, and swimmers and fisher enthusiasts also flock there.
3: Chalets and Apartments for Sale
Take one look at the vast portfolio of apartments and chalets for sale, and the outstanding architectural style stands out. While some French Alp destinations suffer criticism for their lack of urban planning and keeping in with the traditional French alp styles, developers here live for it. It is not just the exterior because large interiors lend weight to the latest in modern living. Other luxurious properties also include features like interior swimming pools, which for investors who plan to reap a rental income, is an attractive lure.
4: Courchevel and Meribel in 2023
When looking at any French Alp property for sale, your checklist should include local infrastructure investment. Courchevel strives to keep up with its esteemed reputation by investing and upgrading community features at every chance, whether this is the opening of a new water park, or replacing old and worn out ski lifts. One comprehensive plan, however, is to host the 2023 world ski championships with neighbouring Meribel. This will bring in an influx of visitors and have a knock-on effect on local infrastructure.
5: Market Spotlight: Luxury Apartment
Sitting in 1650, this two-bedroom apartment is the perfect property spotlight. Because it is in the village’s heart, nearby shops and restaurants are plentiful. As part of a sizeable building designed in a typical chalet-style, this apartment and the resort would suit families. Rental yields average at around 4% per annum, making it perfect for buy to let investors. Measuring 47 square meters, of which each one is 13,800 euros, the ultimate asking price is 625,000 euros. For added cosy living spaces, the apartment has a balcony and wine cellar.
Find Out More
To find out more about the Courchevel property market, see our real estate portfolio here. Each listing includes everything you need to know, including photos, the key feature of that home, locations, and how to arrange a viewing. To speak with a local estate agent to ask questions about buying a ski property in the French alps, also call us today.
Also, Read
Courchevel Introduction Guide: This useful starter guide is for anyone who has not visited yet. Listing reasons to visit, it sums up why Courchevel is one of the French Alp’s most celebrated markets.
