Cheap ski properties in Austria
The Sunday Times - February 15, 2009 Liz Rowlinson
Cheaper than France and Switzerland, the Austrian Alps are also relaxing some of the restrictions on foreign buyers. The hills really are alive!
The Salzburgerland, in the middle of the country, has been the biggest hit with British buyers because of its accessibility and affordability. Most of its resorts are within an hour’s drive of Salzburg airport – served by flights from most of Britain – and it also has Austria’s largest ski area, the Sportwelt Amadé.
Wherever you buy in Austria, the process is straightforward, with the deeds of sale signed by both parties – or power of attorney – at a notary’s office. Buying costs are about 6% and local mortgages are relatively easy to obtain, although they typically carry a 3% setup fee. Investors should note that Austrians are keen to deter a buy-and-sell culture that will overheat prices for locals, so capital-gains tax of 50% is payable on any profits if you sell your property within 10 years.
Retirement in Austria?
Austria is also being considered not just a favourite tourist destination but one of the best places to retire. Its natural beauty is enticing and convinces its tourists to settle here for good. If you wish to find a beauty spot in which to settle down, permanently or semi-permanently, then Austria is one of the better bets as the Austrians are seen as one of the most compatible European nations. One must also note that Austria has one of the best cuisines with good afordable restaurants, were in the rest of Europa one would pay twice as much. Zell am See/Kaprun and the surrounding areas are one of the most attractive regions in Austria to retire to, as we offer a glacier for easy skiing, a natural swimming lake with crystal clear water, and wonderful easy biking trails as various walking and hiking trails. Should one be an avid golfer then we have a 27 hole golf course that is soon to be extended, and for all those that are wanting to relax and regenerate in a spa world, a new one is being built in Kaprun and will be completed in 2010.
Agreement between Austria and the UK
There is a reciprocal agreement between Austria and the UK under which pension contributions made to the Austrian state pension system can be taken into account for your UK pension if/when you return to the UK. Similarly, if you are a British national working in Austria and plan on retiring here, the contributions you paid into the UK system can be considered towards your Austrian pension.
For specific information relating to your personal circumstances, please contact the following organisations:
