Kitzbühel trickery

How millionaires pretend to live in villas

In elitist Kitzbühel, money is often not an issue - much to the chagrin of the locals.

(Bild: Christof Birbaumer, Krone KREATIV)

When it comes to illegal holiday homes, Kitzbühel and the surrounding area have been subject to active controls for years. But this is proving to be a difficult undertaking. This is because the millionaire owners of luxury homes are up to numerous tricks. Mayor Klaus Winkler (ÖVP) speaks of an "unsuitable legal situation".

Magnificent villas as far as the eye can see - equipped with pools, heated driveways, elaborate lighting installations. They really do play all the tricks, attract attention and serve as a status symbol. And they characterize the landscape of Kitzbühel and the surrounding area - even beyond Tyrol. One thing is clear: anyone buying a property in this area must pay attention to vacation designations or register a main residence. The law specifically refers to the "center of vital interests" - but that's where things get tricky ...