management company that pays all maintenance and management costs. The rental return, which is dependent on how many weeks the owner opts for personal use of the property each year, is typically guaranteed regardless of rental occupancy. The return is indexed to the cost of living and should rise over time. Owners typically have a choice from several options that set out how many weeks per year they may use the property. It is important to note that leaseback properties in France provide freehold ownership. As a long-term investment, a leaseback property can be ideal as part of a pension plan, with good security and potential for capital growth, as well as having tax incentives. It can form part of a retirement or lifestyle plan and is completely hassle-free. If leaseback is what is desired, it is important to choose the best location for the purchase. Location will not only affect the long-term value of the investment, but also the enjoyment of times allotted for personal use. Lying between Lake Geneva and the Mont Blanc massif, at the heart of the Abondance Valley, is the lovely old Savoyard French Alpine town of Châtel. As one of the most unspoilt ski resorts in the region, Châtel is becoming increasingly sought-after amongst those seeking year-round holiday homes. It is that rare find - a resort that is small enough to offer an authentic French atmosphere, while being part of a much bigger skiable domaine. Châtel is part of the vast Portes du Soleil domaine – one of the largest ski areas in the world, with over 650 kilometres of varied terrain spread across eight French and four Swiss resorts. This gives skiers and boarders an almost endless choice of runs at their doorstep. Although famous as a winter destination, Châtel is also an ideal summer destination. There are numerous activities, such as windsurfing and sailing (on nearby Lac Léman/ Lake Geneva), white-water rafting, kayaking, paragliding, walking, mountain biking and simply relaxing in the sun in the breathtaking mountain environment. Châtel also benefits from a prime location, only a 75-minute drive from Geneva airport and 45 minutes from the TGV station at Thonon-les-Bains. With its exquisite design and picture postcard surroundings, the leaseback ski property in Châtel embodies the www.theaddressmagazine.com
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