Alps in the summer

As a very good winter season comes to a close in the Alps, property experts are advising potential investors to look at prospective purchases in the summer months as this is the time to find the best deals.

The Alps have always been a popular choice and are often thought of as being a pricey part of the world in which to invest. But the popularity of this mountain range in summer as well as winter now means it has better all year round rental potential.

And it is younger people in particular who are heading to the mountains to buy, according to property analysts.

Investors can get a better deal if they delay buying in the Alps to the summer months, says a recent report by currency specialist HiFX. It also found that Italian ski resorts are becoming increasingly popular.

'It is important for buyers to check out homes in the summer months and see what was covered up by the snow, said Mark Bodega, director at HiFX. He added that prices could also be up to ten per cent cheaper in the summer than at the start of the year.

The Alps are popular because they are seen as a different place to invest in, says The Buy Association. Lifestyle is becoming increasingly important as investors have more choice than ever before. And it is not just ski-ing. In summer horse riding, mountain biking, golf and paragliding are becoming just as popular.

It is also an affordable place to reach and accessible for 12 months of the year with low cost flights from many destinations.

'Many people who own property in the Alps like the region because it is different to the norm and offers its own unique benefits. The one thing that is often underestimated about Alpine properties is just how good the weather is in the summer,' said the associations's Paul Collins.

He added that younger investors were increasingly attracted by the outdoor lifestyle, clean air, beautiful fresh water lakes and the sunshine.

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