About us

DOMOSNO

Combining "DOMUS" from the Latin for Home With The Snow That We All Love!

About Domosno

We are passionate about selling ski properties in the French Alps with over two decades of experience for our director and we have been serving a UK and international client base with passion since the start.We also provide free English-speaking legal assistance with a very reputable property law firm based near Geneva.

Domosno has been a long-time member of the Association of International Property Professionals since 2010 (we started selling ski properties to the UK market more than 20 years ago), providing top-notch service to clients looking to acquire a ski property in the French Alps.

Our Mission

We have been serving the English-speaking clientele for over two decades providing support through the whole buying process with English documents and first-hand assistance.

Our Values

We know how daunting it must feel to buy a property abroad with French developers/agents who do not necessarily speak English. We like to respond fast and be available every day for our clients in case they need us.

Our Network

We have a strong network of agents in the best ski resorts in the French Alps, always at hand to meet you face to face or through virtual viewings.

Our Ski Properties For Sale

We specialise in new build ski properties in the French Alps but we also offer a carefully selected selection of resale properties (chalets and apartments) in most of the French ski resorts.

Frequently Asked Questions

You can use this guide to familiarise yourself with rules, laws and other important information relating to your ski property. Feel free to check our blog as well.

Can a foreigner purchase property in France?

Yes, foreigners can buy property in France. Unlike in countries such as Switzerland and Austria, France has no restrictions on property purchases by UK/foreign buyers, allowing them access to all property types.

How has Brexit affected how I can use my French property?

To be fair, not that much. Just like before you are still limited like any non-French resident to six months/year and the new restriction is that for the time being you are limited to 90 days every six months, twice a year so still six months in total like before.

Why are new-build ski properties better than resale?

VAT Savings: You can potentially save the 20% TVA (French VAT) if you choose to rent out the property.
Lower Purchase Costs/Stamp duty: The purchase costs for newbuilds are only about 2.5%, compared to 8% for resales.
Tax Exemptions: You are exempt from the Taxe Foncière for the first two years.

Other Advantages:

Consumer Protection: French construction laws provide a 10-year guarantee on new properties.
Lower Maintenance: Expect reduced maintenance costs during the initial years.
Energy Efficiency: Newbuild properties are much more energy efficient than older ones, leading to reduced running costs and better potential for rental.
Change layout: You have the flexibility to change the layout and select the style and finish of your property, tailoring it to your preferences.

What is Purchase Process for a New-build Ski Property in France When Buying Off-Plan?

1. Placing an Option on the Property:
Developers may reserve an apartment for potential buyers, especially if they’re planning a visit. Once you decide on a property, you can “place an option” on it, temporarily removing it from the market. This allows time for financial preparations and for the developer to draft a reservation contract.

2. Reservation Contract:
You sign this contract and pay a deposit, typically 2-5%. Deposits are safeguarded by a notary in Escrow. This notary is a neutral third party ensuring the correct property ownership transfer. We offer an English-speaking notary service free of extra charge.

3. Cooling-Off Period:
After receiving the finalized reservation contract, there’s a 10-day period during which you can retract. If your mortgage application is declined, you retain the right to cancel and reclaim your deposit beyond this period.

4. Notary’s Contract Exchange (VEFA) Signature:
This contract is physically signed in a French notary’s office or through a Power of Attorney. Many buyers assign power of attorney to a notary’s representative to avoid traveling solely for this signature. Upon signing the VEFA, funds are transferred to the notary and the buyer then becomes the official owner of the property.

Reclaiming TVA (French VAT) After Buying a Ski Property in France:

On many of our new ski developments, we offer the option to claim back the French VAT on the property purchase price and we assist you with that. The condition is that you let your property through a concierge company specially set up for the rental management.

You can therefore claim 20% of the full property price. This amount is usually paid once a year for non-French residents.

Can I take a French mortgage on my ski property?

We can assist you with the French mortgage application.

Tax Benefits: If you plan to rent out the property, there are tax advantages associated with having a French mortgage. The interest from the mortgage can be offset against the rental income, offering potential tax savings.

Currency Stability: If you anticipate receiving rental income in Euros, and you have a Euro-denominated mortgage, this can reduce your exposure to currency fluctuations. Your rental income and mortgage payments will both be in the same currency, offering a degree of financial predictability.

Request A Free Chat

We can meet you face-to-face on-site in the French with our network of agents or in London. We also provide video chat through Skype or GoogleMeet and our clients usually prefer this new means of meeting as it is usually more convenient for them.