How digital technology has disrupted the mountain real estate market

How has digital technology changed the lives of real estate professionals in the mountain areas?

The exhaustiveness of the information for one thing. In the mountains, properties are widely scattered and almost all different. But clients, who have become accustomed to having access to comprehensive information online, want to know all the details, which means that each property must be thoroughly documented. At Cimalpes, we manage a portfolio of 500 chalets and apartments but all are accompanied by very detailed descriptions on our website, room by room, with full-screen professional photos, plans, a video and a virtual tour. This allows the Internet user to imagine themselves in the property and to narrow down their choice without any unpleasant surprises. After that it’s the on-location service that makes all the difference! And that’s not something the Internet offers...

Has marketing also changed?

Most definitely. Over the last few years, the client experience has become highly digitised: nowadays, people start planning their holiday by surfing the Web on their smartphone, then book on a PC or tablet. That’s why a strong digital presence is essential, along with qualitative and comprehensive content that accurately reflects reality. Clients also often exhibit shopping-type behaviour: they spend a lot of time gathering information before making a decision, hence the importance of being present on large numbers of platforms in order to multiply contact points. Cimalpes properties are available on most major distribution networks, including Airbnb, Booking, Abritel and Trip Advisor. This allows Internet users to compare, compile and make an informed choice with no risk.

How can content be best enhanced?

At Cimalpes, we aim to combine digital expertise with local experience. In our sector, many distributors are distanced from the products they market. Our biggest asset is being established at the heart of the Alps and having in-depth knowledge of each of the properties we list as well as the resorts – Megève, Val d’Isère, Courchevel, Méribel, Saint-Martin de Belleville. This means that we can provide comprehensive and useful information direct from the source. In the digital era, credibility is an increasingly decisive factor.

Benjamin Berger

Managing Director of Cimalpes

Benjamin is the Managing Director of Cimalpes. He is active in rental, transaction and management in the resorts of Courchevel, Meribel, Saint Martin de Belleville, Val d'Isère and Megeve. A s a local, he is an expert on these destinations in which he has carried out all the activities of Cimalpes, in the field, in the back office, in reception or in marketing.

Selected properties

Five collections to suit your every requirement

Local presence

Our expert teams are based in our resorts all year round

Always available

Customer service at your disposal throughout the year

Tailor-made stays

Luxury, hotel-style services for unique, stress-free holidays

Satisfied customers

92% customer satisfaction: holidaymakers, owners, buyers and sellers

How digital has disrupted the mountain real estate market

How has digital technology changed the lives of real estate professionals in the mountain areas?