Property Ruling Leaves Foreign Buyers Out In The Cold In Valais Ski Resorts

Nov. 30, 2007 - PRLog -- Developers and buyers expecting a relaxation of the moratorium introduced in Valais at the start of 2007 and restricting foreigners from buying property in the communes of Grimentz, Veysonnaz, Nendaz, Bagnes (Verbier), Hérémence, Riddes and Val d’Illiez, have had their hopes dashed. Last week’s ruling further limits property purchase by foreign buyers across the whole of Valais with immediate effect.

Andrew Maude of Alpine Specialist believes the “dust needs to settle” before it is possible to see the full effects of the new ruling and the extent of the percussions to the market, adding “the ruling does not symbolise the end of the road for property purchases by foreigners in this part of Switzerland”.

Many of Switzerland’s most popular ski resorts, including Verbier, Crans Montana and Saas Fee, are part of Valais. The huge surge in demand for properties in these resorts over the last few years has significantly pushed up property prices. While sales in these resorts are now likely to be extremely limited, Andrew points out that “it will still be possible for a foreigner to buy a property from another foreigner”. As the new ruling only affects property sales in Valais those eager to buy a ski property in Switzerland should “consider resorts in other Cantons, such as Villars in Vaud, where property sales are governed by different regulations”.

Andrew also predicts that the market could see a mushrooming of leaseback developments in Valais, a common form of property sale in France. “Leasebacks are a good way of dealing with the ‘cold beds’ phenomenon which is of particular concern in Valais.”

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FOR FURTHER INFORMATION:
Andrew Maude, Alpine Specialist
Tel: +44 (0) 1273 491 558
Email: andrew@alpinespecialist.com
Website: www.alpinespecialist.com

NOTES FOR EDITORS:
1. Alpine Specialist offers a comprehensive service for all aspects of property purchase, ownership and management in ski resorts in France and Switzerland. Services include:
• bespoke pro-active property search;
• price negotiation;
• assistance with mortgages and financing;
• introductions to legal and tax advisors; and
• post-purchase property renovation and refurbishment

2. Alpine Specialist works with retained clients looking to buy a chalet or apartment in ski resorts in France and Switzerland.

Website: www.alpinespecialist.com