Top Alpine properties with rental potential
Thinking of investing in the Alps? We take a look at what to consider, and some of the best properties on the market
If the current ski season has you thinking about making a more permanent investment in the Alps, picking a property with rental potential can bring both lifestyle and financial benefits. For those looking to add some additional income (handy for offsetting expenses) Knight Frank’s Alpine Property Report crunches the numbers in detail on the potential yields you can expect. Here it gives two real-life case studies - a €895,000 2-bedroom apartment and a €2,575,000 4-bedroom chalet, giving a return on investment of 2.8% and 1.9% respectively. The longer-term view is crucial, however, with Knight Frank’s Alpine Property Price Index showing that the average chalet has appreciated by 33% since 2008 and by 19% since the pandemic began.
When thinking about what, and where, to purchase, Roddy Aris, a Partner within the International Residential Department, recommends putting yourself in holidaymakers’ shoes. “Everybody wants to be close to the piste, and to the centre. You want to be able to get to the restaurants, bars, shops, and cafes, and then gently walk back home without having to take public transport or going in your own car.” And when it comes to location, choice of resort is all important. “If you’re thinking about the longer term, then it’s all about altitude. Focus on tried-and-tested and in-demand destinations.”
If maximising rental returns is a priority, bigger isn’t necessarily better. “Your yields are going to be much higher on a smaller unit,” he says. “They’re very much in demand, and you know you’re going to get a solid ski season - and depending on the ski resort, a summer season too.” With changing rules for Airbnbs across Europe and beyond, operating through tour operators is recommended, and understanding all the rules and regulations governing the rental of your ski home is critical.
Ultimately the key is deciding your motivation behind the purchase. Is it the yield, or to also have a holiday home for your family and friends? As Aris describes, “It’s a way and quality of life that you can't find anywhere else. You can't put a price on it.”
Here we take a look at some of the properties on the market with income potential.
3 bedroom apartment, Les Houches, Haute-Savoie, Rhône-Alpes
Located in a development of 12 apartments, this 3-bedroom property offers an opportunity to take advantage of France's property VAT rebate scheme, allowing new-build owners to save 20% VAT if they commit to renting it out. Its position at the foot of the Kandahar piste, host of the World Cup downhill and slalom events in the Chamonix Valley, makes it ideal for serious skiers, with the local shops, bars and restaurants within easy reach.
5 bedroom chalet, Morzine, Haute-Savoie, Rhône-Alpes
This ski-in ski-out chalet is located on the ‘Retour des Nants’ piste at the foot of Morzine’s Pleney ski area. With plenty of room for larger parties, its wood-panelled interiors brings a cosy, traditional chalet feel, with its spectacular wraparound terrace making the most of its uninterrupted views over the mountains.
Résidence Le Guépard, Crans-Montana, Valais
According to the Alpine Property Report Crans-Montana ranks top among Swiss resorts in terms of property price growth, and this collection of homes, with a choice of 2, 3 and 4 bedrooms, is one of the most luxurious ways to enjoy all it has to offer. Each apartment has discreet access to the Guépard Palace via an underground pedestrian link, enabling residents to benefit from its high-end service and facilities.
4 bedroom apartment, Nendaz, Valais
Located in the heart of Switzerland’s Four Valleys and just 10 minutes from Haute-Nendaz, this property has year-round appeal, providing the perfect base for skiing and hiking. Beyond its sweeping vistas, this duplex apartment offers ample space to host larger families, with its convenient ski-in ski-out position maximising time on the slopes.
