August Experts: Meet Nicolas, Acquisitions Manager for France

Tell us about yourself 

I am Nicolas, Real Estate Acquisitions Manager, looking after French acquisitions. I sold August the first apartment they ever bought (Signature Collection, Chamonix), back in 2019 when I was working in real estate sales at Barnes. Two years later, I joined August and I’m now not selling real estate but buying it instead! 

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Tell us about your history with the Alps 

I grew up in Chamonix, in this beautiful environment, skiing in winter and mountain biking the rest of the year. I don't live there now but I have the chance to go there often for work and, of course, for holidays as well.

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Where would you typically find an August home in the Alps and why?

I am actively looking for an apartment in a semi-attached chalet in Les Praz. I love the idea of having an apartment that feels like a chalet, with several levels and your own garden. Why Les Praz? Because this is where I lived for many years, it is close to the centre and the ski area of La Flégère is my favourite as it is very steep.

What do you love about these areas and this region?

The nature obviously. I understand why people are coming from everywhere in the world to visit the Alps, and Chamonix especially. I like the international vibes and the easy access from Geneva international airport. All of our August homes are so well located that you really do have the option to do weekend breaks or longer stays in the season and you’re able to make the most of it when there’s great snow. 

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When you're looking around a property in the Alps, is there anything that you're keeping an eye out for? ...And is there anything that you're looking to avoid?

I always make sure that it is a property you would be happy to live in during the peak season but also when the snow is gone. It needs to feel like a home rather than a base just for skiing. 

For an apartment, I avoid buildings that are not well maintained and for a chalet, I avoid anything that doesn’t have a decent amount of privacy. 

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What about this location in general makes it perfect for an August home?

Chamonix makes a perfect August home because you can find activities and beautiful nature all year long. 

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What's your favourite August home to date and why?

The upcoming chalet from the Premium Collection in Combloux. My grandfather lives close by and sometimes skis in the big field in front of the chalet.

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