Our Legal & Taxes section helps international buyers understand the legal and fiscal aspects of purchasing ski property in France. From ownership structures to notary fees, inheritance law and capital gains, we cover the essentials you need to buy and own safely. The French legal system is precise and reliable — but it’s different from UK or US frameworks. We explain everything in plain language, so you can approach your Alpine property purchase with clarity and peace of mind. Whether you’re purchasing a new-build chalet off-plan, inheriting a ski apartment, or planning to rent out your property, our articles cover the legal and tax implications at every stage. We also highlight the advantages of different structures such as buying in your own name, as a couple, or via a Société Civile Immobilière (SCI).

Key topics include:

• Understanding French notary and land registry processes
• How property taxes work in ski resorts
• Inheritance rules for non-residents and EU citizens
• Capital gains tax and rental income taxation
• Legal considerations when buying resale apartments or off-plan properties

This section is especially useful for British buyers post-Brexit, as it helps clarify what has (and hasn’t) changed legally when purchasing in France.

➤ We update this section regularly to reflect the latest legal changes, cross-border tax rules, and best practices for property buyers.