For years, buyers have faced fierce competition and limited stock in France’s top ski resorts. In places like Chamonix, Méribel, or Val d’Isère, demand far outstrips supply—especially for traditional chalets and well-located apartments. But a quiet legislative shift in Paris could soon change the game.
A new inheritance law, approved by MPs in March and now awaiting a Senate vote, promises to make it easier to sell long-vacant homes tied up in family disputes. For ski property buyers, this could mean one thing: new opportunities in areas where properties rarely come to market.
Long vacant chalets in the French Alps may return to the market
Unlocking supply in tightly held ski villages
Many Alpine homes—especially chalets in smaller, characterful villages—have been passed down through generations. When ownership becomes shared among heirs, disagreements over what to do with the property can leave it empty and deteriorating, legally stuck in a state known as indivision successorale. In such cases, the property can’t be sold, rented, or renovated until all heirs agree—or a court steps in.
Under current law, two-thirds of heirs must agree before a sale can proceed. The proposed change would reduce this threshold to just 50%, significantly increasing the chances that these homes can finally be sold.
This matters in the Alps, where the most desirable homes are tightly held, and local building restrictions prevent new development in already saturated areas. When one comes up for sale, it often sells quickly—and at a premium. With this reform, we could see a quiet surge of newly available homes, especially in authentic villages where older properties have sat empty for years.
You need to be prepared for the law passing the senate
A fresh chance for patient buyers
For buyers who’ve spent months—or years—searching for the right ski property in a specific location, this law could open a door that was previously locked. These homes may require renovation, but they often come with traditional features, generous plots, and enviable positions close to lifts or village centres.
However, buying a home that’s been vacant and tied up in legal complexity isn’t always fast. There may still be delays as remaining formalities are completed—even under the new law. That’s where financial planning becomes essential.
Get your paperwork in order
Secure your budget while legal formalities play out
If you’re buying in euros but funding your purchase in pounds, any delay in completing the sale can expose you to currency risk. A forward contract from a currency specialist allows you to lock in today’s exchange rate, even if the final payment isn’t due for months.
This is particularly valuable with ski properties, where prices are higher and market swings can add thousands to the cost of a purchase. By fixing your rate in advance, you can plan with confidence, knowing exactly what your dream chalet or apartment will cost when the time comes to pay.
A moment of opportunity
This proposed inheritance law may not make headlines outside France, but for ski property buyers, it could mark a turning point. As previously inaccessible homes start to reach the market, those who are prepared—legally and financially—will be best placed to act.
If you’ve had your eye on a particular resort or alpine region and have struggled to find the right home, this could be the opening you’ve been waiting for.
We can connect you with expert advisers to help you navigate the legal, financial, and currency planning needed to seize this rare opportunity. Reach out today.
