Many ski property owners choose to rent out their property. Renting helps cover the expenses that can rack up for second home owners and in some places renting your property for part of the year is mandatory.
It’s also worth considering the various tax rebate schemes in place that exist to encourage rental, and ensure year round occupancy - in France for example it’s possible to access a 20% VAT rebate on new build ski property, so long as the space is available to the rental market for part of the year.
Which alpine towns command the highest ski property rental income?
According to the Knight Frank ski report, one of France's premier ski resorts, Courchevel, commands a daily rental rate of €516 which places it firmly at the top of the tree when it comes to rental income. Verbier and Megeve come next, commanding daily rates of €463 and €429 respectively. Elsewhere in Switzerland, St.Moritz and Villars-sur-Olton can command around €377 while back in France, Chamonix attracts a daily rental rate of €406.
What sort of property is most popular?
Looking at the types of property that are in short supply, it seems that larger properties are commanding most interest, which correlates with a shift to longer term use.
Factors such as increased desire for remote working, and increased consideration of the environmental impact of multiple short flights mean that renters are increasingly seeking somewhere to stay for a longer period. Combine this with the global impact of C-19 and the effect this has had on people's desire for a shift in work-life balance and this shortage of larger homes to rent seems to make sense.
Of course, as the global situation continues to change, this trend may follow suit and the allure of a simple ski pad close to the lifts and at the heart of the action may well regain centre stage.
How can I find out what ski properties are available?
SnowOnly is a ski property portal, with access to thousands of homes across the globe. Our user led property search allows you to search by location, number of bedrooms, essential facilities and a host of other considerations, so it’s easy to pinpoint exactly what you want.
If you’ve a particular location in mind, then our property alert service allows you to be sure you’re getting up to the minute availability info, so you’ll be able to stay ahead of the market, and our useful investment guides allow you make sure you’re buying in a place that’s likely to have long-term market appeal.
What sort of thing should I look out for when I’m buying with a view to renting?
If you’re looking for a home that will appeal to the rental market there are a few factors that will help you get maximum return.
- Transport - how easy is it to get to your property? Are the rail and road links good? Is there and international airport within easy driving distance?
- Year round appeal - is the resort a true Dual Season resort, with a sound offering for visitors all year round?
- Targeted appeal - consider your market - are you looking to attract those who want an intense slope focussed week, or do you want somewhere that’s going to hold appeal for longer stay guests?
- Infrastructure investment - how much is being invested in the town? What plans are there for the future?
- Sustainability - visitors are increasingly conscious of their impact on the environment - investing in a resort that has a strong focus on sustainability not only makes sense for its own sake, but also future-proofs appeal for the rental market.
Of course, all these considerations have to be made in light of your own preferences and hopes for the future - are you looking for somewhere that could be a family home? Somewhere that may become a primary residence? Or is your investment firmly focused on the rental appeal?
What properties are available in rental hotspots?
Whilst some of the most sought after areas are experiencing a supply squeeze, there are still homes available.
This beautiful 5 bedroom chalet in Courchevel offers impeccable style and exceptional facilities including a pool and stunning central fireplace. Ideal for anyone seeking a longer term rental opportunity, or for family groups it’s a great choice for an investor as well as a perfect holiday base.
If you’re seeking something smaller, then this 1 bedroom apartment in Verbier is fantastic. Exceptionally spacious with stunning views and sumptuous interiors it’s a space that’s bound to have appeal to the rental market.
Many properties offer superb hotel style facilities too, and choosing something like this 3 bedroom (2 bed + cabin) apartment at l’Altima in Megeve means visitors can enjoy extras like the onsite tapas bar, spa facilities as well as the convenience of concierge and reception services.
Whatever type of property you’re seeking to invest in, SnowOnly is an easy way to explore what’s available - you can see property from a variety of agents, so you know you’re getting the best insight into what’s available, and our useful property alert service means you can be sure you’re up to date with market changes.