Shaping the future of mountain homes : ATHERAC’s sustainable vision

In the Aravis — La Clusaz, Le Grand-Bornand, Manigod, or Saint-Jean-de-Sixt — many chalets and apartments built before current standards now carry poor energy ratings (DPE E, F or G). By 2034, however, all tourist rentals will be required to achieve a classification between A and D, under penalty of rental bans and loss of value.

The question is therefore no longer whether to renovate, but how to do it successfully.

Energy and functional renovation represents a unique opportunity: to modernize older properties, bring under-used “cold beds” back to life, and preserve Alpine landscapes by avoiding excessive new construction.

As highlighted by Tour Hebdo in its April 2025 article “Renovating Real Estate in Mountain Resorts: An Urgent Collective Task”, “comprehensive building renovation is more than ever an essential project for the successful transition of mountain destinations.” At ATHERAC, we share this conviction: renovation is the path forward to combine energy performance, modern comfort, and respect for Alpine heritage.

Our role is to support owners and investors in transforming their property into housing that is :

• energy-efficient,

• attractive on the rental market,

• adapted to contemporary lifestyles,

• and sustainable over time.

By encouraging renovation, we actively contribute to the development of year-round tourism, where accommodation remains a key pillar of the local economy while adapting to today’s ecological challenges.

That said, we want to remain transparent : ATHERAC has no intention of engaging in greenwashing. We are a real estate agency, and as such, we also market new-build programs. Apartment sales remain at the core of our business — and it is precisely for this reason that we believe we have a role to play in guiding our clients — sellers, buyers, and co-owners — towards more sustainable choices that meet the challenges of tomorrow.

We know that every property owner has a different profile and expectations. That’s why we’ve designed a flexible offer built around three support packages, ranging from a simple projection to full project management.

1. Architectural projection

Looking to invest in a property that needs renovation but struggling to imagine its potential ? Through our network of partner architects, we provide a visual design proposal that helps you see the volumes, possible layouts, and improvement options.
➡ Ideal for independent investors who want to quickly assess the viability of a project.

2. Customized technical project

For those who want to go further with a partner architecture firm, you can obtain :

• detailed plans,
• a precise technical description,
• and tailored energy-efficiency recommendations.

➡ This package provides a solid foundation for managing your renovation independently, with a clear roadmap in hand.

3. Turnkey project with execution supervision

Finally, if you prefer complete peace of mind, we put you directly in touch with a selected partner architecture firm. The contract is signed directly between you and the architect. From design to delivery, the firm coordinates contractors, schedules interventions, and ensures rigorous quality control. You get a high-end result without the stress of managing a renovation project in the mountains.

For property owners seeking complete and hassle-free support, ATHERAC has established strong partnerships with leading local architecture firms. These partners are involved in our turnkey project with execution supervision, handling the design, contractor coordination, and meticulous site management through to final delivery.

Their in-depth knowledge of the region — its materials, climate constraints, and regulations — provides peace of mind for our clients. Together, we share the same vision: transforming older properties into modern and sustainable living spaces, while preserving the Alpine identity of the Aravis.

Thanks to these collaborations, every project becomes unique — carefully designed, executed with uncompromising quality, and enhancing the long-term value of your property.

Our commitment to renovation goes beyond assisting individual owners at the time of purchase or resale. As a condominium management company (syndic) specialized in mountain properties, ATHERAC handles the specific challenges Alpine buildings face on a daily basis:

• Harsh climate (snow, frost, wind), requiring reinforced monitoring of roofs, utilities, heating systems, and safety,

• Seasonality and accessibility of interventions, which must be planned according to snow conditions and tourist peaks,

• Accelerated wear and tear linked to seasonal rentals and the frequent turnover of occupants,

• Energy renovation as a priority to improve comfort and reduce running costs.

Our mission naturally includes the administrative management of renovation projects in co-owned properties. This local presence and technical expertise directly support our new property enhancement service, ensuring renovations are well-planned, efficient, and sustainable.

Since 1958, ATHERAC has been supporting property owners through every stage of their real estate journey : transactions, holiday rentals, condominium management, and now renovation and enhancement. Our ambition is clear: to preserve the value of mountain real estate by offering homes that are modern, energy-efficient, and true to the spirit of the Aravis.

Are you considering purchasing a property with renovation potential in the Aravis ? 
Contact our team to discover our renovation opportunities and tailored support solutions.