- Real estate advice
- Ultra luxury, the superlative segment
This is a niche market, equal parts discreet and sought-after. “This market, which we refer to as ‘super-prime,’ applies to unique, extraordinary properties located in an exceptional environment, with a value in excess of €10 million,” says Grégory Flon, Chairman and Founder of Cimalpes, the leader in luxury mountain property. “The depth and breadth of our offering, and the location of our agencies, have naturally led us to have a strong presence in this niche since we were founded,” he says. “And although we are witnessing an overall move upmarket in properties, the super-prime market does not define the general mountain market, where the majority of sales are between €500,000 and €3 million.”
“ Just like private bankers, we have to be as discreet as possible.”
OFF-MARKET GOODS
Located mainly in Val d’Isère, Courchevel, Méribel, Megève and Chamonix, most of these off-market properties feature signature architecture, decorative artwork, and pieces by the masters alongside the finest materials, and do not appear in catalogues or on websites. “These sales, which are always made off-market, are focused in the Big Five but may occasionally be found in other resorts,” says Grégory Flon, highlighting the essential notion of confidentiality.
“Like private bankers, we have to be as discreet as possible, and capable of adapting to our customers’ ecosystems. The eight negotiators who work in this market have a perfect mastery of its codes and build lasting relationships of trust with their customers, thanks to their discretion, cultural openness and expertise in the sector.” And their customers choose right. They have no hesitation in calling on the services of Cimalpes, which discreetly handles the majority of sales of exceptional mountain properties.
A WELL-INFORMED CLIENTELE
As far as buyers are concerned, these exclusive properties are the preserve of a French and international clientele of Ultra High Net Worth Individuals*, who are often very familiar with the destinations and have been coming to them for years. “Most of them are entrepreneurs from a wide variety of backgrounds, including technology, industry and the automotive sector, as well as commodities trading and banking,” says Grégory Flon.
These sophisticated and demanding investors, who are increasingly young and already own several second homes, are looking to diversify their assets, but above all they are looking for an accessible place to relax, where they can bring family and friends, enjoy the mountain air, and also work. For this busy clientele, responsiveness and efficiency go hand in hand with confidentiality. “Like private bankers, we work closely with our customers to understand their needs and help them realise their Alpine dreams,” says Grégory Flon.
