BUYING AN ALPINE PROPERTY - WHAT BUYERS SHOULD KNOW

BUYING IN FRANCE 🇫🇷 - French property transactions are overseen by a notary, who ensures compliance with the law. Navigating local laws, taxes, and rental rules is crucial to avoid unexpected costs & protect returns.

For buyers, several regulations stand out:

Energy Efficiency (DPE): 

In France, every property sale comes with an energy performance certificate (DPE). Older chalets may need upgrades to meet new energy standards—especially important if you plan to rent, as regulations are becoming stricter.

Airbnb & Short-Term Rentals: 

Short-term rentals are popular, but many mountain communes have introduced tighter rules to protect housing for locals. Always check local regulations before listing your property on Airbnb or similar platforms.

New-Builds & VAT: 

Buying a new property for rental can be a worthwhile investment: certain new-builds allow VAT recovery, making serviced apartments a cost-effective investment while still providing personal use.

Taxes: 

Owners pay annual taxe foncière (land tax). For second homes, the taxe d’habitation still applies, and high-value properties may also fall under the real estate wealth tax (IFI).

Loi Montagne:

The Loi Montagne requires that some new properties in French mountain zones be furnished and rented seasonally and not used for year-round living.

France checklist: ✅

Energy & rentals: Confirm the DPE rating. Check if Airbnb/short-term lets are restricted locally.

Money matters: Look intoVAT rebates on new-builds; budget for taxe foncière, taxe d’habitation and IFI wealth tax.

Building rules: Establish if any new build property is subject to the Loi Montagne.

BUYING IN SWITZERLAND 🇨🇭 - The country offers stability and prestige, but the legal framework is complex and varies by canton.

Navigating local laws, taxes, and rental rules is  crucial to avoid unexpected costs & protect returns.

Lex Koller: 

Foreign buyers face limits on holiday home ownership, including maximum size and location restrictions. EU/EFTA residents with permits have fewer barriers, while non-residents often need permanent residency to buy.

Lex Weber: 

New holiday homes are capped at 20% of a commune’s housing stock, making existing properties more valuable.

Serviced Apartments: 

Commercial aparthotels and serviced residences fall outside Lex Weber rules, allowing rental income while offering personal-use periods.

Taxes: 

Swiss taxes are levied at federal, cantonal, and municipal levels, including purchase and capital gains taxes. Rates vary by location and duration of ownership.

Switzerland checklist: ✅

Eligibility: Understand Lex Koller restrictions and permit requirements.

Investment strategy: Consider serviced apartments for rental income in restricted areas.

Regional research: Compare cantonal tax rates between target resorts.

Professional support with CORE: Contact us for local, legal and tax expertise before viewing.