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Located at the gates of Geneva, between Lake Geneva and the Jura Mountains, the Pays de Gex is a unique territory. Both a place to live for thousands of cross-border workers, a reception area for an international clientele and a booming tourist destination, it is distinguished by a unique attractiveness in France. Its strategic location makes it a territory at the crossroads of worlds: French in terms of administration and living environment, but closely linked to Switzerland through its economic, social and cultural flows. But does this specificity really make it a promising market for short-term rentals?

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A market driven by neighboring Switzerland

The first factor that explains the dynamism of the Pays de Gex lies in its immediate proximity to Switzerland, and in particular to Geneva. An economic and diplomatic capital, the city attracts tens of thousands of business travelers, international civil servants and expatriates every year. It hosts more than 200 international organizations, including the United Nations Organization, the World Trade Organization, the World Health Organization and the International Labour Organization. This unique concentration in Europe generates a constant flow of professional and institutional stays, often of medium duration, perfectly compatible with the short-term rental offer.

In addition, there are research and innovation centers such as CERN, located directly on the Franco-Swiss border. Every year, CERN attracts thousands of researchers, engineers and trainees from all over the world. Many people, for budgetary or practical reasons, prefer accommodation in the Pays de Gex, which is more accessible than Geneva but just as close to their place of mission.

Because for many, housing directly in Geneva represents a very high cost, sometimes prohibitive, with average rents that far exceed those in the Pays de Gex. This is precisely where the territory comes into its own: just a few minutes from the border, it offers a more affordable alternative, while remaining perfectly connected to Switzerland thanks to roads, cross-border buses and soon to the Léman Express, which will soon reinforce the mobility of the region.

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A varied and loyal clientele

The profile of travelers who choose the Pays de Gex is particularly diverse. First of all, there is a high proportion of professionals on mission, whether they are researchers at CERN, collaborators of international institutions or consultants who have come to work on projects in Geneva. These stays can last a few days, but often last several weeks or even several months, which is perfect for short-term rentals, which is more flexible than a traditional lease and more economical than a hotel.

The region is also attracting a growing tourist clientele. In winter, short breaks to enjoy the Jura slopes are a real success. Resorts such as Crozet, Lélex or Mijoux, accessible in less than 30 minutes from the main towns, welcome family and international customers looking for a more intimate stay than in the big Alpine resorts. In summer, hikers, cyclists and paragliding enthusiasts flock to enjoy preserved landscapes, between valleys, forests and ridges of the Jura. And above all, the exceptional location of the Pays de Gex allows access to the Alps in less than two hours by car, opening the door to the emblematic resorts of Haute-Savoie and Savoie such as Chamonix, Megève or Les Gets. This further broadens the spectrum of potential travelers, seduced by a base close to Geneva, Lake Geneva and the Alpine mountains at the same time.

Finally, another growing category of travelers stands out: cross-border workers. Single or young couples, many of them come to settle in the region without having a permanent contract in their pocket, which greatly complicates their search for long-term housing. The traditional rental market in the Pays de Gex is indeed one of the tightest in France: rents are among the most expensive outside Paris, very low vacancy rate, strong competition between applicants. Faced with this extremely high rental demand, short-term rentals become a flexible solution for them, which allows them to settle in the region while they find a stable job or sustainable housing.

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A territory that is still under-exploited

Unlike cities like Paris, Lyon or Marseille, the Pays de Gex is not yet suffering from a saturation of the Airbnb market. Competition does exist, of course, but it is still more measured, leaving room for new players. For owners, this means that the potential for profitability is real, especially in strategic areas such as Ferney-Voltaire, Saint-Genis-Pouilly or Divonne-les-Bains, which combine proximity to Geneva and local attractiveness.

In Ferney-Voltaire, demand is driven by the direct proximity to Geneva and the international airport. For its part, Saint-Genis-Pouilly benefits from its location at the gateway to CERN and its growing economic dynamism. Finally, Divonne-les-Bains attracts a more tourist and upscale clientele thanks to its casino, golf and famous thermal baths. These micro-markets, although different in their dynamics, share the same characteristic: an offer that still falls short of real demand, thus opening up interesting prospects for owners wishing to invest in short-term rentals.

This relative under-exploitation of the market is reinforced by the high standard of living in the region. The proximity to Geneva attracts a population with high purchasing power, accustomed to high standards of comfort. Many travelers, whether cross-border commuters, vacationers or professionals, are therefore looking for comfortable, well-equipped and ideally located accommodations. The short-term rental offer, when it is well managed and meets the expectations of this demanding clientele, is therefore easy to find buyers and differentiates itself advantageously from the traditional hotel industry.

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Points of vigilance not to be overlooked

However, the dynamism of the market does not mean that it is free of constraints. As elsewhere in France, short-term rentals are subject to administrative rules that must be respected, even if they are often less strict than in big cities. For example, some municipalities require registration at the town hall or limit the number of annual nights for a main residence. Local regulations can change quickly, and it is essential for owners to stay informed in order to avoid penalties.

Many owners are still hesitant to start, fearing that they will not reach a sufficient occupancy rate to exceed long-term rental income, which is already extremely high in the region. It is true that traditional rents in the Pays de Gex are among the most expensive in France outside the Paris region, but the reality on the ground is nevertheless encouraging: owners who entrust the management of their property to professionals see on average between 30 and 50% in additional income compared to a traditional rental, with occupancy rates that range between 70 and 80%. These figures demonstrate that with an adapted strategy and rigorous management, short-term rentals can become a particularly solid and sustainable source of profitability.

Finally, customer requirements should not be underestimated. The Pays de Gex welcomes international travelers, who are often used to high hotel standards. This means that reactivity in exchanges, the irreproachable cleanliness of the accommodations and the flexibility of arrivals and departures are not simple assets, but essential conditions. To meet these expectations, delegating to a professional concierge remains the best solution, guaranteeing consistent service, a positive customer experience and optimized profitability over the long term.

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One answer: yes, short-term rentals work in the Pays de Gex

In view of all these elements, the answer is clear: short-term rentals are not only possible in the Pays de Gex, it is particularly relevant there. The exceptional attractiveness of the territory, supported by Switzerland, international organizations, international organizations, CERN, ski resorts and the quality of life, creates a constant and varied demand, both from professionals and from vacationers.

While the market remains demanding and requires rigorous management, it offers a real opportunity for owners in return. By relying on a local concierge and by adapting to the specificities of customers, it is possible to transform a home into a regular and sustainable source of income.

In summary, short-term rentals do indeed work in the Pays de Gex. It is even an ideal solution for valuing real estate in a region with international influence and growing tourist attractiveness.

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Sources:

• https://www.guidedufrontalier.com
• https://www.ledauphine.com  
• https://statistique.ge.ch 
• https://www.paysdegexagglo.fr 
• https://www.paulme.immo 

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In 2025, furnished rentals are one of the most popular investments for individuals wishing to build up a wealth while generating income. More flexible and more profitable than bare renting, it allows you to benefit from considerable tax advantages, provided you master the different statuses and tax regimes. Between the status of Non-Professional Furnished Rental Company (LMNP) or Professional (LMP), and micro-BIC or real regimes, the choice of taxation can have a decisive impact on the net profitability of your investment. This article guides you clearly and comprehensively to understand the issues and make the right choices.

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LMNP or LMP: two statuses to supervise your activity

The status LMNP (Non-Professional Furnished Rental) is the most frequently used by individuals. It concerns landlords who receive less than 23,000 euros in annual revenue from furnished rentals, or whose income is lower than the other income from the tax household (salaries, BIC, etc.). The LMNP status offers great management flexibility, reduced taxation, and above all the possibility of opting for the real regime in order to benefit from the depreciation of the property.

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The status LMP (Professional Furnished Rental Company), for its part, is aimed at lessors whose furnished rental income exceeds 23,000 euros per year and exceeds all other business income. It is therefore a professional activity, which involves more stringent social and fiscal obligations, but opens the way to certain advantages, in particular the possibility of imputing deficits to total income, and under certain conditions, to be exempt from tax on capital gain upon resale.

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Micro-BIC or real: choosing the most advantageous tax regime

The Micro-Bic diet is a simplified regime applicable automatically if revenue does not exceed certain thresholds: 77,700 euros for a classic furnished rental, 15,000 euros for unclassified furnished tourist accommodation, and up to 188,700 euros for classified furnished apartments or guest rooms. It provides for a lump-sum reduction on revenue: 50% for classic furnished furniture, 30% for unclassified furniture, and 50% for classified furniture. This regime is simple but not very optimized, as no real load can be deduced.

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On the other hand, the Real regime allows you to deduct all real expenses: loan interest, notary fees, notary fees, works, insurance, condominium fees, as well as the depreciation of real estate and furniture. This depreciation greatly reduces, or even eliminates, the tax result, which often makes it possible not to pay taxes for several years. The real regime is particularly suitable for investors with a mortgage or significant expenses.

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Social security contributions and deductions: what are the impacts on your income?

In LMNP, net income is subject to social security contributions up to 17.2%. However, you are not liable for URSSAF social security contributions, unless you exercise the activity professionally and are registered as such.

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In LMP, the lessor is affiliated to URSSAF and must pay social security contributions on the profit made, at a rate of between 35% and 45%. In return, this income is not subject to social security contributions at 17.2%. It is therefore essential to compare the total social security contributions according to the system chosen.

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Real estate capital gains: LMNP or LMP regime?

Until 2024, LMNP investors could depreciate their property each year to reduce their tax base, without these depreciations being reinstated during the resale. This allowed for extremely advantageous taxation, as the capital gain was calculated only on the difference between the sale price and the purchase price, depreciation not taken into account.

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Since the 2025 finance law, this fiscal niche has been Deleted. From now on, the amortization applied must be reintegrated into the calculation of capital gain. This means that the tax base is increasing, which leads to an increase in resale taxation. For example, a property purchased 200,000 euros, amortized to the tune of 100,000 euros and sold for 300,000 euros, will be considered for tax purposes as having been acquired 100,000 euros, thus generating a taxable capital gain of 200,000 euros.

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In LMP, depreciation had already been reinstated for several years. An exemption is still possible if the lessor has been active for more than 5 years and if his income does not exceed 90,000 euros per year.

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VAT and CFE: additional obligations

Furnished rentals are, with some exceptions, not subject to VAT. VAT becomes applicable if the rental company offers at least three para-hotel services: reception, daily cleaning, linen supply, breakfast. In the majority of cases, furnished renters therefore avoid this obligation.

On the other hand, the CFE (Contribution Foncière des Entreprises) is due by all furnished renters, from the first year of activity. The amount varies according to the municipality, but is generally between 200 euros and 800 euros per year.

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Conclusion

The 2025 reform marks a turning point for the taxation of furnished rentals. The LMNP status, long considered a tax haven, is seeing its attractiveness reduced due to the reintegration of depreciation into capital gain. However, it is still interesting if the objective is to generate regular income. The choice between LMNP, LMP, micro-BIC or real must be carefully considered, depending on the investment strategy, the volume of expenses and the resale horizon. It is strongly recommended to carry out accurate simulations with a professional to adjust your taxation to your wealth objectives.

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Sources:

• impots.gouv.fr - Furnished rental 
• service-public.fr - Income from a furnished rental 
• jedeclaremonmeuble.com - LMNP/LMP taxation 
• PAP - Furnished rental taxation 
• Bofip - LMP/LMNP capital gains 
• Legalstart - Furnished rental, which tax regime should you choose?
• Journaldelagence.com
• Socic.fr

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La Le Meur law, promulgated on November 19, 2024, aims to strengthen the tools for regulating furnished tourist accommodation at the local level. Faced with the rise of short-term rentals via platforms such as Airbnb, this law introduces measures to regulate this practice and preserve the supply of housing intended for primary residence.

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Main provisions of the Le Meur Act:

Mandatory declaration at the town hall

As of January 1, 2025, all owners offering furnished tourist accommodation, whether it is their main or secondary residence, must file a declaration at the town hall. This procedure aims to ensure better traceability of tourist rentals.

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Limitation of the rental period of main residences

Municipalities now have the option of reducing the maximum rental period for main residences from 120 days to 90 days per year. This measure allows municipalities to better control the use of housing on their territory.

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Restrictive zoning

Municipalities can define areas reserved exclusively for main residences in their local urban plan, thus prohibiting furnished tourist rentals in these areas. This provision is aimed at maintaining permanent habitat in certain urban areas.

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Suspension in case of unsanitary conditions

In the event of a finding of unsanitary conditions, the town hall may suspend the authorization to rent the furnished tourist accommodation concerned, thus guaranteeing decent housing conditions for the occupants.

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Energy performance requirements

The Energy Performance Diagnosis (DPE) is becoming mandatory for furnished tourist accommodation. Housing classified E, F or G will gradually be banned for tourist rentals, requiring owners to carry out renovations to comply with energy standards.

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Tax changes

The law changes the tax allowances for furnished tourist rentals. For classified properties, the allowance increases to 50% with a ceiling of €77,700 in annual rental income. For unclassified goods, the reduction is 30% with a ceiling of €15,000. These new rates will apply to rental income received as of January 1, 2025.

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Implications for condominiums

Modification of the condominium regulations

Condominium regulations established after November 21, 2024 must explicitly mention the authorization or prohibition of the rental of furnished tourist accommodation. For previous regulations, the general meeting of co-owners may decide to prohibit this practice by a two-thirds majority, thus simplifying the procedure that previously required unanimity.

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Obligation to inform the trustee

Any co-owner or tenant offering their lot as a furnished tourist accommodation must inform the trustee as soon as the rental is the subject of a declaration or registration. This measure reinforces transparency within condominiums.

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Distinction with long-term furnished rentals

It is important to note that some restrictions in the Le Meur Law do not apply to long-term furnished rentals. For example, rental period limitations and certain reporting obligations relate specifically to short-term rentals for tourism purposes. In addition, the allowances and revenue ceilings under the micro-BIC regime remain unchanged. Furnished rentals used as a main residence over a long period of time are not subject to these same restrictions.

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Penalties for non-compliance

Failure to comply with the obligations imposed by the Le Meur Law may result in sanctions, including administrative fines of up to €5,000 per unit concerned. Controls will be strengthened to ensure compliance with regulations.

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Conclusion on the Lemeur Act

The Le Meur Law marks a major turning point in the regulation of furnished tourist rentals in France. Faced with the explosion of short-term rentals via platforms such as Airbnb, the legislator wanted to regain control locally to maintain the balance of real estate markets, especially in tense areas where rental tension deprives residents of accessible housing.

Thanks to this law, local authorities now have reinforced tools: reduction of the maximum rental period, creation of areas reserved for permanent housing, a ban in case of unsanitary conditions, and the possibility for condominiums to prohibit furnished tourist accommodation by a two-thirds majority. At the same time, the advantageous fiscal niche for furnished tourist accommodation is reduced, restoring a certain degree of tax equity between the different types of rentals.

It is important to note that the Le Meur Law does not target long-term furnished rentals, which maintain their current tax regimes and remain unaffected by the new constraints. Owners must therefore clearly distinguish their rental method in order to apply the right regulations and optimize the profitability of their property legally.

For investors, this law implies more rigor but also offers more clarity. By relying on specialized rental management or concierge services, it is possible to remain in compliance while maximizing income. More than ever, the management of furnished tourist accommodation is becoming an activity to be professionalized, and knowledge of fiscal and legal rules is becoming a strategic lever for renting effectively, sustainably... and without surprise.

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sourcing

• dalloz-actualite.com
• ‍lemonde.fr
• ‍village-justice.com
• monmarcheimmobilier.fr
• monimmeuble.com
• service-public.fr
• journaldelagence.com

In 2025, rental investment remains a preferred lever for building wealth and generating income. In this context, two main strategies are opposed: short-term rentals (LCD), often implemented via platforms such as Airbnb or Booking, and long-term rentals (LLD), a classic model known for its stability. While short-term rentals are attractive because of their potentially higher profitability, long-term rentals are reassuring because of their ease of management. This article provides you with an in-depth analysis of the two models, their respective advantages and disadvantages, as well as the fiscal and legal implications, in order to help you choose the strategy that best suits your wealth goals.

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Profitability: why short-term rentals attract investors

Short-term rentals are mainly characterized by their high profitability potential. Indeed, an accommodation rented by the night can generate much higher income than that of a traditional rental. For example, in a tense or tourist area, an apartment that would be rented 1,000 euros per month for long-term rentals can easily produce between 2,000 and 3,000 euros in monthly turnover in the short term, provided it maintains a good occupancy rate.

This increased profitability is also explained by the price flexibility available to the owner. He can adjust his prices according to the season, local demand or even particular events. This ability to adapt makes it possible to maximize income, which is impossible in long-term rentals, where the rent is regulated and fixed for the entire duration of the lease.

Another significant advantage of short-term rentals is the virtual absence of risks of non-payment. Indeed, travelers pay for their stay before arrival via secure platforms. Conversely, long-term rentals expose you to unpaid bills, with eviction procedures that are often long and complex.

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Management: greater involvement in short-term rentals

While short-term rentals offer higher returns, they also require greater involvement. Each departure of a tenant involves cleaning, the rehabilitation of the home, and often a personalized welcome. The logistics are therefore heavier than in the context of a traditional lease, where the property is occupied on an ongoing basis.

However, there is an effective solution to alleviate this burden: call on a specialized concierge. These service providers take care of the entire management of the property (reception, cleaning, maintenance), for an average commission of 20% on the income generated. Thus, the owner can benefit from the profitability of short-term rentals while maintaining time and serenity.

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Taxation: the advantages of short and long-term furnished accommodation

Taxation is a major lever in optimizing a real estate investment. On this point, furnished rentals, whether short or long, benefit from a tax framework that is much more advantageous than traditional bare rentals.

In bare long-term rentals, the income received is taxed in the property income category. The owner can deduct certain expenses, but the possibilities for optimization remain limited. The land deficit can only be attributed up to a limit of 10,700 euros per year, and fiscal profitability remains moderate.

Conversely, furnished rentals (whether short or long term) fall under the Industrial and Commercial Benefits regime (BIC). Under the micro-BIC regime, the taxpayer benefits from a flat rate allowance of 50% (or 30% for unclassified furnished tourist accommodation), but cannot deduct any real charge. On the other hand, the real regime allows the deduction of all operating expenses as well as the depreciation of the property and furniture. This possibility of amortizing your property often leads to zero tax results, and therefore to an exemption from tax on rental income for several years. The real LMNP status thus becomes a powerful fiscal tool to optimize net profitability.

Regarding the increase in value on resale, the rules vary. In LMNP, the individual capital gains regime applies, with total exemption from tax after 22 years of ownership and from social security contributions after 30 years. Above all, past amortization is not included in the calculation of capital gain, which is a considerable advantage. In LMP, on the other hand, the capital gain is calculated according to the regime for professionals, with reintegration of depreciation, except in the case of possible exemption after 5 years of activity and if the income remains less than 90,000 euros.

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Regulation: the growing impact of the Le Meur law on short-term rentals

The Lemeur law, adopted at the end of 2024, provides a more stringent framework for furnished tourist rentals. In particular, it provides for a reduction in the micro-BIC tax allowance for unclassified furnished apartments, the possibility for municipalities to limit the duration of rental of main residences to 90 days per year, and a strengthened power given to general condominium meetings to prohibit short-term rentals by a two-thirds majority vote.

Faced with these restrictions, some investors are considering alternatives to continue to benefit from the advantageous taxation of furnished apartments without falling within the scope of these constraints. Among these solutions are long-term furnished rentals with a mobility lease (1 to 10 months), the request to classify the accommodation as furnished tourist accommodation to benefit from a 50% discount, or even investment in areas not subject to authorization for change of use.

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Conclusion

Short-term rentals have a much higher potential for profitability than long-term rentals, provided that management constraints and the legal framework are well controlled. Thanks to the real LMNP tax regime, it often makes it possible to neutralize taxation for several years, while maximizing income. However, it requires increased vigilance in the face of constantly changing regulations. Long-term rentals, on the other hand, remain more stable, less time-consuming, but less fiscally optimised. The choice between the two will therefore depend on the management capacity, financial objectives and fiscal profile of each investor.

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sourcing

• Impôts.gouv.fr
• Service-public.fr
• Jedeclaremonmeuble.com
• PAP.fr
• Bofip.impots.gouv.fr
• Legalstart.fr

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