Mont Blanc & Portes du Soleil: the rise of the year-round resort

The Mont Blanc massif is iconic, but the property landscape at its feet is undergoing a significant regulatory shift. For buyers who value community and longevity, these changes highlight the region's evolving appeal.

Chamonix’s new era

Much discussion has centred on Chamonix’s new planning regulations, designed to support local housing. As of March 2025, new construction is heavily restricted to full-time occupancy. For the international second-home buyer, this makes "new-build" stock a rarity. The focus has naturally shifted to renovating existing properties, where one can blend heritage with modern luxury. Furthermore, restrictions on short-term rentals—limiting private owners to one unit—signal a move towards a more settled, less transient community.

Saint-Gervais: the dynamic alternative

Just 30 minutes away, Saint-Gervais-les-Bains is enjoying its moment in the sun . Local property experts highlight that while prices have softened slightly (around 4%), the long-term view is exceptional, with values up 30-35% over five years.

The town is thriving, recently making the Condé Nast list of best places to visit in 2026. It boasts a year-round community of nearly 6,000 residents and significant infrastructure upgrades, including new transport links to Geneva. It is a successful market where sensibly priced properties sell quickly, often within 3% of the asking price .

Portes du Soleil & Grand Massif

Further north in Samoëns and the Portes du Soleil, the market is maturing . Observers note that while "window-shopper" enquiries have dropped, the remaining buyers are serious and motivated . Prices climbed 10-15% over the last five years, but the pace has eased, creating a more balanced environment for purchasers .

There is renewed interest in the €1m+ segment, a bracket that had been tougher in recent years . Buyers here are finding value; properly priced homes are typically selling within 5% of the asking price.