For anyone dreaming of their own ski home – whether an apartment, chalet or otherwise – the thought’s often followed by the realisation of how large a financial investment it is. But this doesn’t need to be the case: a bit of market research can yield some surprising results. In fact, if you know where to look, even some of the big names can be less pricey in place than you’d think. So join us as we take a tour of the best resorts to find affordable ski homes in France and Italy.
France
Les Houches/Prarion
In the Chamonix Valley, Les Houches is a popular resort among families and easily reachable from Geneva. It offers 360ºC views of Mont Blanc and also has a perfect beginner’s slope at the top of the Bellevue cable car. Although the average house price in the region is around €517,200 for a 100m2 property, you can easily find affordable ski homes at much less.
One key tip for finding more affordable property is buying off-plan – the earlier in the stage, the greater the saving you’ll often make. Take this new-build home in Prarion, Les Houches, on the market for €210,000. It benefits from a central location in the village of Servoz, and is just 55 minutes from Geneva and its airport – perfect for weekend breaks.
Morzine
Morzine is undergoing a huge amount of redevelopment, including a new €35 million lift and €11 million’s worth of improvements on the surrounding infrastructure! We’ve written extensively about the area in our Morzine Investment Guide, so do have a read for more information. The resort benefits from dual seasonality, as a popular mountain biking area in the summer, so it’s ideal for anyone looking for affordable ski homes for letting possibilities.
This traditionally styled Morzine apartment benefits from a top-floor location, with a private balcony enjoying unobstructed views right across the slopes. Space is maximised, with two double bedrooms and a further bunk bed niche. As for the skiing itself, the slopes are just 50m from the property.
Italy
Alta Badia
Set amidst the majestic Dolomites, Alta Badia, in the Germanic region of Bolzano, offers access to over 130km of ski slopes, with direct connection to the Mt Santa Croce. Again, this is a great area for families, with 70km of blue category slopes – ideal for beginners. For more experienced skiiers, the famous Sellaronda circuit is close by.
Surprisingly, however, you can find very affordable ski homes here in Alta Badia – and you also have the advantage that purchase costs in Italy are relatively low. Take, for instance, this two-bedroom apartment in perfect condition. For €540,000, you have a fully furnished property, with a large living room, kitchen, south-facing balcony and two large bedrooms.
Arabba
Arabba is a perennially popular ski resort, with a diverse mix of slopes: 32km of blue slopes, 22km of more challenging red slopes and 8km of expert black slopes for those looking to push themselves, including some of the Sellarona circuit’s best steep runs.
Like in Alta Badia, you’ll find that you get a lot for your money. This three-bedroom, luxury, new-build apartment enjoys a prime location just a few steps away from the ski lift to the Marmolada. Inside, there is a large living room, kitchen and dining area, underfloor heating and high-quality wooden floors. The owner will also benefit from a private storage room and covered parking space.
Buying an affordable ski property
If you’re tempted by any of these affordable ski homes, don’t miss our free country buying guides for France and Italy to find out how the buying process works. And, if you’re buying from overseas, find out about protecting your money from the risk of changing exchange rates in the Property Buyer’s Guide to Currency. The currency markets are constantly changing, and a sudden drop can leave you looking to add as much as several thousand to your budget – but, as you will learn in the guide, you can easily remove that risk completely.
Start your planning now, and you could well be in place in your dream home by the start of the next season!
Apr 15, 2024
