The Geiss family, known for their luxurious lifestyle and reality TV fame, is facing a significant financial crisis as their four-star hotel, "Maison Prestige Roberto Geissini," located in Grimaud on the French Côte d'Azur, is set to be auctioned. The auction is scheduled for April 25, 2025, with a starting price of 1.5 million euros, a figure that many consider surprisingly low given the property’s prime location near Saint-Tropez.
According to reports from Business Insider, the auction is a result of mounting tax debts that the French government claims the Geiss family owes. Robert Geiss, 61, and his wife Carmen Geiss, 59, have been embroiled in a lengthy dispute with the French tax authorities, which they allege have made excessive demands on them. In a candid statement to the Bild newspaper, Robert expressed frustration, stating, "Like many other landowners in France, we are affected by excessive demands from the French authorities and have been fighting for our rights for years."
The couple opened their hotel in 2015, aiming to create a profitable family business. However, the financial strain became evident as their tax liabilities reportedly ballooned to 7 million euros from 2010 to 2022, including penalties and interest. The French authorities accuse them of having utilized unjustified tax advantages related to the property.
The hotel property was purchased in 2008, but according to French law, the Geiss family should have sold it within five years to retain certain tax benefits. Since they failed to do so, they now face potential back taxes. The tax claims are directed at Whereland Real Estate SA, a Luxembourg-registered company owned by Robert Geiss.
Despite the looming auction, Robert Geiss remains optimistic about the outcome. He confirmed that they have filed an appeal against the judgment and expressed confidence in their case, stating, "We are very hopeful that we can avert the foreclosure." This appeal process has delayed the auction, which was initially slated for last September.
In his statements, Robert has made it clear that the hotel itself is not involved in the legal disputes. "Our hotel has nothing to do with the whole process. The hotel is merely a tenant, and the lease remains valid," he insisted. This assertion highlights the Geiss family's view that the actions taken by the French authorities are unjust and misdirected.
The Geiss family’s struggles come as a surprise to many fans who have followed their lives through various media outlets. Their reality show has showcased a glamorous lifestyle, including extravagant vacations and luxury purchases, making the current financial predicament all the more striking.
As the auction date approaches, the future of "Maison Prestige Roberto Geissini" hangs in the balance. The hotel, which features four villas, three pools, and 16 rooms, charges between 175 and 500 euros per night, catering to tourists seeking luxury accommodations in one of the world's most sought-after destinations.
While the Geiss family works through their legal challenges, the hotel continues to operate, but the uncertainty surrounding its ownership raises questions about its long-term viability. The couple's ability to navigate this financial storm will not only impact their business but also their public image as they strive to maintain their lifestyle amidst growing scrutiny.
In conclusion, the upcoming auction of the Geiss family’s hotel serves as a stark reminder of the complexities of financial management, especially in the high-stakes world of luxury real estate. As they fight against the French authorities, the Geissens' story unfolds as both a cautionary tale and a testament to their resilience.
