Alpine Property Podcast cover art

Alpine Property Podcast

Alpine Property Podcast

By: Steve & Lesley Thomas
Listen for free

About this listen

Welcome to the Alpine Property Podcast with your hosts, Steve Thomas and Lesley Thomas.


We are the husband and wife team behind Alpine Property Investments, helping clients to find their dream property in the mountains of France and Switzerland.


The aim of this podcast is to share with you everything to do with purchasing a ski property, including the where, what, why and how to buy, with real insider information that comes from knowing the mountains as intimately as we do.


To us, this is not just a business, but a real demonstration of helping clients invest in a lifestyle. We want this podcast to be your go-to place for all things buying and owning a ski property.


Tune in to The Alpine Property Podcast every week through the winter season and subscribe to our newsletter www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk/newsletter-signup/ to learn more!


For more information, visit www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk and contact us at:

📧steve@alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk

📧lesley@alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Steve & Lesley Thomas Economics Personal Finance
Episodes
  • 64. The 10 Questions You Should Ask Before Buying a Property in the French Alps

    64. The 10 Questions You Should Ask Before Buying a Property in the French Alps
    Feb 4 2026
    Episode 64: The 10 Questions You Should Ask Before Buying a Property in the French AlpsIn this solo bonus episode of the Alpine Property Podcast, Lesley Thomas takes listeners through one of the most important conversations any prospective Alpine buyer can have before committing to a purchase.Recorded during the height of the ski season, when resort schedules and client commitments are at their busiest, this episode offers practical insight while Steve and Lesley prepare to record the third and final instalment of their current mini series.Rather than going quiet, Lesley uses this episode to address a topic that comes up in almost every buyer conversation. Whether you are purchasing your first Alpine property or adding to an existing portfolio, there are certain foundational questions that determine whether a purchase truly works for you over the long term.This episode focuses on the ten questions every buyer should ask themselves before buying a property in the French Alps. These are not surface level considerations. They are the questions that influence lifestyle satisfaction, financial comfort, flexibility, and resale potential long after the excitement of the initial purchase has passed.Topics Covered in This EpisodeUnderstanding your true motivation for buying in the French AlpsWhether you are buying for present use or future life stagesChoosing a resort that genuinely fits your lifestyle and usage needsSetting a realistic budget that includes all associated costsRental performance considerations even when income is not the main driverUnderstanding the French legal and ownership frameworkDeciding how hands on or hands off you want to be after purchaseAssessing long term resale and liquidity potentialBalancing emotional excitement with clear decision makingThe importance of having the right guidance throughout the processLesley explains how different answers to these questions naturally lead buyers toward very different resorts, property types, budgets, and ownership structures. She also highlights common mistakes that occur when these questions are not addressed early enough.This episode is particularly valuable for buyers who want confidence and clarity before taking the next step, and for those who want their Alpine purchase to support both lifestyle enjoyment and long term peace of mind.Thinking About Buying in the AlpsThese ten questions form the basis of the conversations Steve and Lesley have with clients every day. Not just around what to buy, but why they are buying and how that decision fits into their wider lifestyle and financial plans.If you are considering purchasing a property in the French or Swiss Alps and would like to explore your options in more detail, visit:www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.ukYou will find a selection of Alpine properties for sale, along with contact details to arrange a conversation or viewing.Thank you for listening to the Alpine Property Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing and sharing it with anyone who may be thinking about buying in the Alps.Steve and Lesley will be back very soon with the third and final instalment of their mini series once the peak season schedules allow.Subscribe to our newsletter www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk/newsletter-signup/ to learn more! For more information, visit www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk and contact us at:📧steve@alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk📧lesley@alpinepropertyinvestments.co.ukFollow us on Instagram www.instagram.com/alpinepropertyinvest/Follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/AlpineProp/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
    Show More Show Less
    13 mins
  • 63. Weekend Getaway, Apres Ski, High Altitude skiing, value for money? What resort suits you best? – Part 2

    63. Weekend Getaway, Apres Ski, High Altitude skiing, value for money? What resort suits you best? – Part 2
    Jan 21 2026
    In Part Two of this extended mini series, Steve and Lesley Thomas continue their exploration into helping listeners identify which Alpine resort best suits their lifestyle, travel preferences, and long term property goals.Following the response to Part One, and the volume of listener questions received, this originally planned two part series has now evolved into three episodes. This ensures there is time to properly explore each topic without rushing, allowing buyers to fully understand the wide range of lifestyle options available across the French Alps.This episode focuses on how second home buyers are increasingly choosing resorts based on year round activities and ease of access, not just skiing alone. Steve shares extensive insight into resorts that excel across multiple seasons, particularly for clients who want to combine winter sports with summer pursuits.Key topics:Resorts that offer both excellent skiing and world class road cyclingLocations synonymous with Tour de France stages and iconic mountain climbsSteve also explains how upcoming infrastructure projects, particularly the new international high speed rail connection through Saint Jean de Maurienne, are set to transform accessibility and future investment potential across the Maurienne Valley.Throughout the episode, listeners gain a clear understanding of how lifestyle priorities such as cycling, dining, sustainability, transport links, and summer enjoyment are increasingly shaping where buyers choose to own property in the Alps.This episode is ideal for second home buyers who want flexibility, dual season enjoyment, and long term relevance from their Alpine property.Property Featured in This Episodehttps://www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk/properties/004990/This week’s Property of the Podcast highlights a brand new luxury residence in the highly sought after dual season and high altitude resort of Tignes Le Lac.Perfectly positioned ski in ski out at an altitude of 2100 metres, this rare off plan development offers direct access to the slopes and is located just 80 metres from the Palafour chairlift, close to shops, restaurants and resort amenities.The residence will comprise 25 apartments ranging from one to six bedrooms, with sizes from 37 to 160 square metres. Each apartment will feature generous outdoor space, mountain views, parquet flooring, underfloor heating, fully fitted kitchens, and wood panelling throughout the living areas and bedrooms.Built by a highly regarded Alpine developer, the project blends modern architecture with traditional Alpine styling and incorporates a curved design, green roof, and solar panels, reflecting a strong commitment to sustainability.Owners will benefit from underground parking, private ski lockers, cellars, and access to a communal wellness area with hammam and sauna. A restaurant and three shops will be located on the ground floor, offering exceptional convenience.Prices range from €538,000 to €3,618,000. With high altitude property in Tignes in short supply and demand for strong rental income continuing to rise, this represents a compelling investment opportunity.Episode 55 of the Podcast (Road Cycling):https://shows.acast.com/63c101e03d134f0010824fef/68655698a03e7f04b08e4ac9 Episode 44 of the Podcast (Mountain Biking)https://shows.acast.com/63c101e03d134f0010824fef/66b391efec20c36e8e135c8a Episode 17 of the Podcast (Golf)https://shows.acast.com/63c101e03d134f0010824fef/64a43acb1355cb0011b5d361.Part Three of this series will conclude the discussion by focusing on budgets, running costs, rental potential, and long term return on investment.Subscribe to our newsletter www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk/newsletter-signup/ to learn more! For more information, visit www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk and contact us at:📧steve@alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk📧lesley@alpinepropertyinvestments.co.ukFollow us on Instagram www.instagram.com/alpinepropertyinvest/Follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/AlpineProp/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
    Show More Show Less
    54 mins
  • 62. Weekend Getaway, Apres Ski, High Altitude skiing, value for money? What resort suits you best? – Part 1

    62. Weekend Getaway, Apres Ski, High Altitude skiing, value for money? What resort suits you best? – Part 1
    Jan 7 2026
    Episode 62: Weekend Getaways, Apres Ski, High Altitude and Value for Money. What Resort Suits You Best? Part OneIn the first episode of 2026, Steve and Lesley Thomas return to the Alpine Property Podcast to kick off a brand new year and celebrate a major milestone. This year marks the 20th anniversary of Alpine Property Investments, founded by Steve in 2006 following their own journey into owning property in the Alps.To begin the year, and to mark this anniversary, Steve shares two decades of on the ground knowledge in a two part series designed to help listeners understand which Alpine resorts best suit their lifestyle, skiing ability, travel needs, and investment goals.In Part One, the conversation focuses on the French Alps and explores the key factors second home buyers should consider when choosing where to buy, including altitude, snow surety, length of season, ski area size, accessibility, apres ski, family friendliness, and value for money.Steve explains why the French Alps remain the most popular choice for international buyers, covering topics such as classic freehold ownership, no restrictions on buying or selling, the ability to reclaim VAT on new build properties, strong rental demand, and the protection offered by the French banking system for off plan purchases.Throughout the episode, Steve answers common client questions, including:Which resorts offer the highest altitude skiingWhere to buy for snow surety without skiing above 3000 metresThe longest ski seasons in the French AlpsThe largest ski domains by sizeBest resorts for Christmas and New YearWeekend getaway resorts with easy airport accessThe top destinations for apres ski and party atmosphereThe prettiest and most authentic Alpine villagesHidden gem resorts that still offer excellent valueWhere to buy for off piste skiingThe best resorts for non skiers and mixed ability familiesThis episode is packed with practical guidance for buyers who want clarity on where to focus their search, particularly those feeling overwhelmed by the sheer choice of resorts across the French Alps.Part Two will continue the conversation by looking more closely at costs, budgets, and investment potential to help listeners further refine their decision on where to buy.Find Out MoreProperties of the podcast: ValloireBrand new apartments https://www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk/properties/004929/Chalet at €1.1 million https://www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk/properties/004937/To explore current opportunities or discuss where might suit you best in the French or Swiss Alps, visit:www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.ukIf you would like to arrange a property viewing during your next ski trip, or simply talk through your plans for buying a second home in the mountains, Steve and Lesley would be delighted to help.Website links and contact details can be found below.Thank you for listening to the Alpine Property Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, please consider rating and reviewing the show, as it helps others discover the podcast.Subscribe to our newsletter www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk/newsletter-signup/ to learn more! For more information, visit www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk and contact us at:📧steve@alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk📧lesley@alpinepropertyinvestments.co.ukFollow us on Instagram www.instagram.com/alpinepropertyinvest/Follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/AlpineProp/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
    Show More Show Less
    48 mins
No reviews yet
In the spirit of reconciliation, Audible acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.