Buying a ski property in the Austrian Alps in a post-Brexit world is nearly impossible with eligible properties for foreigners few and far between. However, the French Alps can present an extremely attractive and, most importantly, accessible alternative with opportunities for VAT reclamation, an incredible art de vivre, and world-class skiing.
French Alps Real Estate: An Attractive & Accessible Alternative to Austrian Ski Property
11th October 2024
For Brits dreaming of owning a property in the Austrian Alps, the post-Brexit landscape has become increasingly challenging. As UK nationals are now classed as Third Nationals in Austria, the buying process is more complex, time-consuming, and potentially costly. Investors from the UK are now limited to ‘zweitwohnsitz’ property, a very rare Austrian property type, or they will need to register for a special permit at the Land Transfer Authorities.
But if you’re determined to own a home in the Alps, there’s a fantastic alternative: the French Alps. With easier purchasing regulations, strong investment potential, and diverse lifestyle options, the French Alps can offer everything you’re seeking—and more.
Fiscal Benefits of Buying Property in the French Alps
One of the key advantages of buying in the French Alps is the absence of restrictions on property purchases for British buyers. As non-EU nationals, Brits are not treated any differently in France than they were before Brexit. The process remains straightforward, and second-home status is available without the need to rent out your property, although there are financial incentives if you do.
If you're considering optimising your investment, there’s also the option of buying French Alpine property through a company structure, which can offer tax advantages. In addition, the French mortgage market is improving for foreigners, with more options available to Brits. Athena Advisers can connect you with our sister company to secure a mortgage, guiding you through every step of the process.
For those looking at new-build properties, France offers another enticing incentive: the ability to recover 20% VAT from the purchase price if you rent out your property on an ongoing basis and provide a few basic services. Active in the Alps for more than 20 years, we can put you in touch with trusted rental management companies to help you manage the property and offer guests the necessary services. Our in-house team offers an add-on service whereby they will handle the rebate process, so you won’t need to worry about the paperwork.
When it comes to long-term investment potential, properties in the French Alps have shown strong capital gains. The combination of high-end resorts, scarcity of prime real estate, and steady demand continues to drive up property values, making it a safe bet for future returns.
Alpine Lifestyle Appeal: France vs. Austria
Aside from the financial benefits, the lifestyle appeal of the French Alps is second to none. Whether you're seeking the high-end lifestyle of Courchevel 1850, with its glamorous boutiques, or the authentic charm of smaller villages like Saint-Gervais or Châtel, there is something for everyone.
In terms of comparison, the Austrian Alps have a lot of similarities with Haute-Savoie, such as Les Portes du Soleil and Evasion Mont-Blanc; think cute farming villages, cows, treelined skiing and traditional architecture. Val d’Isère or the Three Valleys have a lot in common with Arlberg (which includes Lech & St Anton), as it is sporty, high-altitude and has great nightlife.
If you enjoy Kitzbuel in the Austrian Alps, you might want to consider Alpe D'Huez or Megève in the French Alps as it is also a true year-round resort with a great lifestyle beyond skiing, Megève has boutiques, shopping, nightlife and, of course, a world-famous fine dining scene.
If the lake life of Zell am See is something you aspire to, you could consider Annecy or resorts in Les Portes du Soleil.
Another reason the French Alps stand out is the sheer scale of their ski areas. Austria’s largest ski region, Ski Arlberg, offers 300 km of slopes, a fantastic size by any standard. But compare that with Les Trois Vallées in France, the largest linked ski area in the world, which boasts 650 km. Resorts such as Espace Killy (Val d'Isère and Tignes) or Paradiski also offer significantly larger terrain compared to most Austrian counterparts. Though there are certainly similarities among the regions, the Austrian resorts tend to focus heavily on hotels and resorts offering all-inclusive packages with on-site restaurants. As a result, there are fewer independent restaurants in the area, especially in Ischgl. As hotels are king here, this is one of the reasons there are few properties for sale here. So if you are looking for somewhere with lots of great dining options, you might be better catered for in the French Alps, for example only if you bought a property in Megève you can find 89 restaurants, including 3 Michelin-star ones, on your doorstep.
Summer in the Alps: Austria vs. France
In the Austrian Alps, the summer season is a huge part of their appeal and there are plenty of activities to enjoy in the fresh mountain air. However, summer in the French Alps can be just as enjoyable as the French resorts have invested heavily in becoming a year-round destination and record-breaking overnight stays were seen last summer. French resorts like Les Gets host international events like the Mountain Bike World Championships, and you’ll find an abundance of thrilling activities such as via ferrata, zip-lining, and paragliding.
For those who enjoy more traditional summer holidays but also crave a bit of adrenaline, the French Alps offer the best of both worlds: quiet alpine lakes and challenging mountain hikes, alongside high-adventure sports that will keep everyone in the family entertained.
While the Austrian Alps have much to offer, the French Alps also pack in natural beauty, amazing nightlife and traditional charm but with a more accessible and potentially lucrative option for British buyers. With fewer regulatory hurdles, attractive fiscal benefits, and diverse lifestyle offerings—from world-class skiing to summer adventure—the French Alps should be at the top of your list when considering a property investment in the mountains.
By choosing the French Alps, you not only secure a piece of stunning alpine real estate but also benefit from a lifestyle that offers adventure, relaxation, and long-term financial gains, all within a welcoming and accessible environment for Brits post-Brexit.
Ready to find out more about French Alpine real estate? Take a look at our Destination Guide to Buying a Property in the French Alps, or fill in the form below to speak with one of our highly experienced Alpine team.
