WishlistSearch
Home to some of the oldest ski resorts in the world, many clients like to buy properties in Austria for its authentic feel and exceptional beauty. Filled with traditional chalets, fairy-tale villages and incredible snowfalls, Austria ticks almost every box. However, Austria protects its property market with strict regulations. These vary from one resort to another and can include property usage, as well as the right to buy in the first place. Fortunately, we do have a mixture of second homes, newly built developments, and rental opportunities on offer, both for EU citizens and non-EU.
Second Homes
Some of the rarest and most special properties in the Austrian Alps are second homes. The majority of resorts often come with rental obligations as tourism in Austria continues to thrive, leaving second homes harder to find. Second homes appeal to buyers as they are not subject to restrictions on own use. Owners are able to stay in their property as little or as much as they want, at whatever time of year they prefer. Second home properties can be traditional farmhouse chalets, modern and extravagant chalets, and even newbuild developments. The added beauty of second homes means that the market can sometimes open to international buyers such as UK or US buyers who would usually not be able to purchase property here. The limited supply promises greater long-term value.
An exceptional second-home status development recently on the market is the Alpine Lake Edition. This luxury project of 75 apartments offers all nationalities the option of purchase, as well as flexible owner usage with professionally managed rental if desired. Prices start at just over EUR 340,000 and units can host between 2 – 6 guests. Owners have access to an indoor swimming pool, private saunas, a fitness area and an on-site restaurant. Even though clients are not obliged to rent out their apartment, it is often quite popular to do so, as the returns are fantastic. With access to a private beachfront on the lake and the snow-sure slopes of Nassfeld just 10 minutes away, both summer and winter see high demand.
Other second homes on the market (for EU nationals) include Five Valleys Residence, another newbuild development offering spa facilities, high-end interiors and optional rental management. Set on a plot of 1490 sqm, we have a breathtaking chalet, Alpen Residenz in St Johann, as well as the Arlberg Delight and Wonder which overlook the Klosterletal Valley. For more second home properties for non-EU, do contact us and we can send you a selection of off-market properties.
Rental Obligation with Owner Usage
Another purchase option which is relatively rare is a development which holds a rental obligation as well as allowing allocated owner usage. The number of weeks in which owners can stay at their property varies from project to project, but the most common number is 6 weeks: 3 weeks in summer and 3 weeks in winter. Clients often choose this option when they are set on receiving a guaranteed income throughout the year and still want to visit their property at certain times. It gives the best of both worlds and professional rental managements take care of your property completely.
We have a great selection of these types of properties on offer in resorts such as Lech, Warth, St. Anton, Stuben and Gargellen. Over in Lech we have two incredible apartments in the Brunnenhof development with prices starting at EUR 2,500,000. The properties, thanks to their prestigious and central location, are always in high demand and rent exceptionally well. In Stuben we have a newly built project of 2–5-bedroom apartments and penthouses with spa facilities. A historical 6-bedroom, renovated chalet is also available in the centre of Stuben which offers 6 weeks owner usage and can accommodate up to 12 guests.
Additional properties benefiting from this more flexible status is The Warth Residence, Chalet Nadia in St. Anton, and Alpin Resort Montafon, Gargellen.
Investment Properties
For some people, investing in Austria is not for their own lifestyle benefit, but for purely financial gains. The Austrian Alps offer predictable income, professional management and long-term capital security. As one of the most popular regions for families and visitors, tourism remains consistently high, driving strong demand for accommodation.
Many properties cater to this type of investor, and we have many high-end developments in popular resorts which come with a full rental obligation. This does mean, however, that owners are not entitled to use their own property, but often rent their neighbour's, or another apartment in the building. This structure is designed to maximise rental performance and deliver consistent returns. Professional operators take care of everything from bookings and guest services to cleaning and maintenance, so there’s little involvement needed from owners. For international investors, it’s an easy way to access Alpine real estate without any operational hassle.
The Secret Solden is a remarkable development new on the market. Solden has always been one of the more popular resorts due to its high altitude (1380m), large ski area and very lively atmosphere so investing here is smart. The Secret Solden comprises 44 luxury apartments with 1 – 3 bedrooms at a starting price just under EUR 500,000. The amenities are excellent with both indoor and outdoor swimming pools, exceptional hotel services and an on-site bar.
The Salzburg region is very popular with these types of properties, and we have properties ranging from chalets, apartments and penthouses on offer. Contact us here if you would like to find out more and see one of our properties both off and on market.
Opportunities in the Austrian Alps are tightly controlled, and the best properties rarely stay on the market for long. We have been selling properties in the Alps for over 35 years and are always available to have a call or meeting to help you decide which investment is best for you.
