A Guide to Ski Property Markets Around the Globe

When it comes to combining breathtaking landscapes with exceptional investment opportunities, ski resorts worldwide are proving to be more popular than ever. The Knight Frank Ski Property Report 2024 offers unparalleled insights into the latest trends shaping the ski property market in top destinations, from the French and Swiss Alps to Colorado’s rugged peaks. 

Here’s a breakdown of key findings and tips to help prospective buyers and investors navigate this dynamic market.

State of the Market

The appetite for Alpine living remains strong despite challenges like climate change and rising costs. The pandemic-driven boom has subsided, yet demand persists. Listings across key French resorts are down 56% from pre-pandemic levels, underscoring tight supply. 

Prime ski property prices increased by an average of 4.4%, with Swiss resorts leading the charge. With 70% of Alpine transactions over €1.5 million made in cash, higher interest rates have had minimal impact on the luxury segment.

Buyer motivations are split between high-altitude resorts for snow reliability and dual-season resorts for year-round appeal. Energy efficiency is increasingly important, though only 28% of buyers are willing to pay a premium for it. 

It’s important to mention that emerging demographics include buyers from Asia, the Middle East, and Southern Europe, often motivated by climate considerations and currency diversification.

Key Trends: Resilience, Dual Seasons, and Sustainability

The Alps are no longer just a winter destination. Resorts like Chamonix and Crans-Montana now attract year-round visitors with summer events such as music festivals, mountain biking, and wellness retreats. 

In Chamonix, 40% of its ski lift revenue comes from May to October, and Crans-Montana records 44% of overnight stays in the summer months. High-altitude, north-facing slopes, like those in Gstaad and Val d’Isère, offer greater snow reliability.

Green energy solutions and eco-friendly infrastructure are reshaping resort operations. For example, Verbier’s electric buses and Gstaad’s waste-to-energy heating system highlight sustainable progress in the Alps.

Top Ski Resorts to Watch

If you want to know which ski resorts you should focus on when considering buying a property, this section is for you.

Swiss Alps

• Verbier’s dual-season draw makes it a top contender for investors. Its renowned ski terrain, vibrant nightlife, and summer festivals like the Verbier E-Bike Festival ensure year-round visitor engagement. The growing trend of e-bike accessibility has expanded interest in areas like Le Châble, offering more affordable yet equally scenic properties.
• St. Moritz, synonymous with opulence, is a playground for the world’s elite. Beyond skiing, the resort offers polo matches on frozen lakes, luxury shopping, and cultural events. Its year-round appeal is amplified by wellness retreats and hiking opportunities in the summer months, making it one of the favorites for affluent buyers.
• Gstaad combines traditional charm with modern sophistication. Over 60% of its ski slopes are north-facing, ensuring excellent snow conditions. The resort’s vibrant calendar includes music festivals, gourmet events, and wellness activities, providing robust rental potential for property owners.

French Alps

• Chamonix’s year-round appeal and strong rental potential make it a standout choice. Its vibrant town center, coupled with extensive ski terrain and summer activities, attracts adventure seekers and investors alike. Additionally, the resort’s proximity to Geneva Airport enhances accessibility, further boosting its popularity.
• Méribel, located within the iconic Three Valleys ski area, offers unparalleled luxury. Its charming Alpine architecture blends seamlessly with high-end amenities, including world-class restaurants, spas, and exclusive chalets. As part of one of the world’s largest ski domains, Méribel ensures year-round appeal through hiking, mountain biking, and cultural events during the summer.
• Val d’Isère is celebrated for its snow reliability and prestige. Known for hosting international ski competitions, the resort combines challenging slopes with luxury accommodations. Recent infrastructure investments, such as modernized ski lifts and enhanced pedestrian areas, add to its allure for both winter enthusiasts and summer tourists.

Beyond the Alps

• Aspen, Colorado, continues to lead in the ultra-luxury segment. Known for its exclusive properties, Aspen attracts cash-rich buyers seeking turnkey homes with ski-in/ski-out access. The resort’s cultural scene, including film festivals and art exhibitions, enhances its year-round appeal.
• Queenstown, New Zealand, offers a unique blend of adventure and tranquility. Situated on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, it’s a haven for skiing in winter and outdoor sports like hiking and bungee jumping during summer. The town’s real estate market has seen consistent growth, making it an attractive option for investors.
• Revelstoke in Canada is an emerging hotspot and the top contender for North America’s largest ski resort by 2029. Its unique zoning policies allow for unlimited nightly rentals, catering to the rising demand for short-term stays. With ongoing infrastructure development, Revelstoke is set to rival established ski destinations.

Tips for Buying and Renting Ski Properties

Investing in ski properties requires strategic planning. Properties in ski-in/ski-out locations or near vibrant resort centers command higher rental income and resale value. High-altitude resorts, like Val d’Isère, offer longer ski seasons, while mid-altitude resorts, such as Crans-Montana, appeal to summer tourists with diverse activities.

Securing financing early is essential. Private banks often tailor loans for purchases above €2 million, providing flexible terms for high-net-worth buyers. Arranging pre-approval not only expedites the buying process but also demonstrates intent to sellers in competitive markets.

To maximize rental income, choose properties with flexible layouts that cater to family groups or large parties. Tailored furnishings aligned with your target market’s preferences can further enhance appeal. Engaging a reputable management service is crucial for hassle-free renting and ensuring repeat bookings.

It’s wise to future-proof your investment by prioritizing energy-efficient properties. Upcoming regulations in regions like France and Switzerland will make energy ratings critical for rental eligibility. Additionally, emerging trends like e-bike accessibility are expanding the desirability of properties outside central resort areas, offering opportunities for savvy investors.

Finally, capital growth remains a compelling factor, with Alpine properties rising 19% on average over the past five years. Monitoring these trends can help investors balance rental revenue with long-term appreciation

Market Outlook

• French resorts offering both winter and summer activities, like Chamonix and Mégève, are set for continued growth. 
• Swiss destinations such as Crans-Montana and Verbier will thrive due to their year-round resident numbers and safe-haven appeal. 
• In Colorado, Aspen’s market remains resilient, with turnkey homes in prime locations driving demand. 
• Tight supply will continue supporting prices, particularly in top-tier resorts. 
• Sustainable, year-round properties will shape future developments, and buyers seeking lifestyle investments will remain a significant market force.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re seeking a vacation home, an investment property, or a year-round retreat, the global ski property market offers diverse opportunities. With these insights, you can make informed decisions and enjoy the perks of mountain living while maximizing your investment potential.

If you’re considering investing in luxury real estate in Verbier, Schraner Luxury Real Estate offers an exceptional portfolio of high-end properties. With unparalleled expertise in the Verbier market and a commitment to excellence, Schraner Luxury Real Estate is your trusted partner for finding the perfect Alpine retreat. 

Explore your options and begin your journey to owning a piece of Verbier’s charm today. Contact us and we’ll be happy to be your guide on this exciting and fulfilling journey.