FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to the most common questions we receive from buyers and sellers. If you can't find what you're looking for, don't hesitate to contact your local agent.
Buying in France
Do I need to be a French resident to buy property?
No. There are no restrictions on foreign nationals buying property in France. You don't need to be a resident, and you don't need a visa to own property. The process is the same whether you're French, British, Dutch or from any other country.
How long does the buying process take?
From signing the compromis de vente to completion, allow 3 to 4 months. This gives the notaire time to complete all legal checks. If you're buying with cash and there are no complications, it can sometimes be faster.
What is the cooling-off period?
After signing the compromis, you have 10 calendar days to withdraw without giving a reason and without losing your deposit. This is a legal right that cannot be waived.
Can I get a mortgage in France as a non-resident?
Yes. Several French banks lend to non-residents, typically up to 70–85% of the purchase price over 15 to 25 years at competitive fixed rates. We can introduce you to specialist mortgage brokers who work with international clients.
Who will show me around the properties I'm interested in?
One of the Alpine Property team located in the relevant area will show you around the properties you are interested in. All our team are highly experienced in the property buying process and speak English and French (with many speaking a further language as well) so are able to deal with any questions you have during the viewing process.
Can I build my own chalet?
Depending on the location, there is normally the opportunity to buy land to build with planning permission, and Alpine Property can recommend architects that can handle the building process. However, there is little constructible land in the center of towns with ski access - it is much more readily available outside the main resorts.
Can I build a kit chalet?
Yes, Alpine Property can put you in contact with companies that offer this service.
How do the costs vary between old and new property?
Although newly built properties or fine examples of older properties may sometimes command a premium, it very much depends on the property in question. There are few properties available for sale that are over 150 years old.
Where does Alpine Property sell property?
Alpine Property specialises in the sale of property in the Haute-Savoie region of the French Alps. This region includes many mountain resorts within easy reach of Geneva airport, including the Portes du Soleil, the Vallée Verte, the Megève Valley, the Chamonix Valley, St Gervais and Les Contamines, the Grand Massif, the Aravis and Annecy Lakeside.
How can Alpine Property help me find a property?
Alpine Property has a wide selection of property for sale in the French Alps. Our dedicated team will listen to your individual property requirements and use their expert local knowledge to find the best range of properties for you to look at. They will also arrange visits and show you around the properties, being on hand throughout the process to answer any questions you may have.
Are Alpine Property based in the UK or France?
Alpine Property is a French company. We have a team who live and work throughout the Alps and are dedicated and focussed on property in the area. We are not a franchise or tied to other estate agents, but always act alone to secure and sell the best properties in the Alps.
How do Alpine Property help me in the buying process?
Alpine Property is centered around the principle that the complex and often daunting process of buying property abroad is best served by professional, local advice in your own language. We are skilled and qualified in all the necessary elements of buying property in the Alps and throughout the buying process we will be on hand to offer advice, support and legal guidance.
Selling Your Property
What diagnostics are required to sell?
French law requires sellers to provide a Dossier de Diagnostics Techniques (DDT) covering energy performance (DPE), asbestos, lead, termites, natural risks, gas and electricity. We coordinate these inspections for you.
How long will it take to sell?
This depends on the property, the price, and market conditions. A well-priced property in a popular resort can sell within weeks. On average, expect 3 to 6 months from listing to completed sale.
Do I pay capital gains tax when selling?
If the property is your primary residence, no. For second homes, capital gains tax applies but reduces over time. After 22 years of ownership, you are fully exempt from income tax on the gain (30 years for social charges).
Living in the Alps
How do I get there?
Geneva Airport is the main gateway, with year-round flights from across Europe and beyond. Transfer times to most resorts range from 1 to 2 hours. Lyon and Chambéry airports are also options for southern resorts.
What about schools?
The French public school system is excellent and free. Several international schools operate in the region, including options in Geneva, Annecy and near Chamonix. Many expat families successfully integrate into the local French schools.
Does Alpine Property offer a leaseback service?
Although Alpine Property doesn't actively promote a leaseback service, our clients frequently arrange to lease properties independently. We can offer advice on how this can be done to those interested in securing a rental income from their property.
Can Alpine Property help me find maintenance for my property?
Alpine Property can put clients in contact with companies who offer maintenance services for properties.