Posted on 10 July 2020
If you want to buy ski property in the French Alps, but are still undecided whether it is a wise financial move, we can assure it is. For a few years now, the housing market has been the latest golden child of international real estate, and that shows no sign of letting up. Buyers flock from all over the world and invest in ski apartments and chalets, most of which feature the time-honoured Alpine architecture.
Having said that, when buying property in France, take your time with this purchase. The market is selective and like no-where else in the world, so ask questions and be fully knowledgeable, before signing on the dotted line. Let us look at why and how to make your investment work.
3 Reasons to Buy Ski Property in the French Alps
Infrastructure Development: Across the French Alps, ski resorts are continually upping their game by investing millions into ski infrastructure and their towns. Le Coin de Val is probably the most ambitious of them all. Two hundred million is being ploughed into the redevelopment of the village centre to add extra hotel beds, along with new restaurants, shops, and bars. Officials have also kept original architecture themes adding to the ambience. In 2018, they added three lifts in the 3 Valleys area, Courchevel 1650 and Megeve upgraded their gondola lifts, and La Clusaz renovated their ski station. The upgrading of infrastructure carries on, year after year, ensuring resorts stay on top of their game.
Year-Round Resorts: Gone are the days when owning an alpine home meant using it for winter only. To boost tourism and income, resorts invest in summer activities to keep tourists coming all year round. Val d’Isère that already has an esteemed reputation offers an extensive range of activities for lovers of the great outdoors. Think mountain biking, and para-gliding for an adrenaline rush, or sports centres for swimming, Pilates, yoga and more. Golfing fans should head to Courchevel, Chamonix, Megeve, Avoriaz, Tignes Les Arcs, or Les Gets, in the Portes du Soleil ski area for their 18-hole course. Read more about which resorts open for summer.
Exclusive Lifestyle: Look at any travel brochure to discover thousands of beach package resorts around the world. Beaches are plentiful; however, the alpine lifestyle is unique, and no other destination can replicate it. From blankets of snow in winter to rolling green pastures in summer, the culture, food, and traditions are also a big lure for ex-pats who want a home that puts them in touch with Mother Nature. If you wish to learn French, indulge in tradition pastries, cheese, and wine, or just ski, joining a French alp community will be one of the most rewarding life experiences.
Tips on the Buying Process
Choose Dual Season Resorts: Across the Alps in France, many destinations stand out, but our tip is to take a long look at activities all year round and pick one suiting your lifestyle and expectations.
Skiing Season: If skiing is your principal aim for buying, especially with buy-to-let, the higher the altitude, the longer the ski season.
Easy to Get To: Geneva airport services most resorts but also check the transfer times, because you don’t want to spend three hours travelling after a long flight.
Back Door Resorts: Also known as satellite resorts, these are towns linking to the same ski area but where chalet and apartment prices are more affordable than in surrounding resorts. Combloux, Tignes and Les Menuires are three examples.
Buy-to-let: Rental properties can earn a healthy income, but ski chalets need to be luxury. Small touches like swimming pools, Jacuzzis and state-of-the-art kitchen can make all the difference to securing a booking. Ski-in ski-out chalets receive more bookings than others. Another option is to look at leaseback properties where a management team handles the reservations.
Ski Area: As well as getting to know the town, look at the ski areas. For example, the Three Valleys receives a lot of attention because it has over 650 kilometres of pistes, and over 180 ski lifts. Likewise, thirteen resorts link the high profile Portes du Soleil area.
Find out More
To buy ski property, it is worth getting to know the real estate market and comparing prices, and features. Our portfolio of apartments and chalets for sale in France contains all the information to know, including price, location, amenities and home details. To receive more information or arrange a viewing of any property, fill in the enquiry form.
Where to Buy Alpine Property: We list resorts paving the way for apartments and chalets. They include dual season, and backdoor resorts and those investing heavily in infrastructure. Our final tip is to know why you want to own a home, and this will make it easier to choose where to buy ski property in the French Alps.
