Ten Reasons Why it's a Great Time to Buy Property in France
Originally posted on & updated on 11th November, 2023
France has always been a popular place for overseas investors to buy property but what are the market conditions like, where should buyers be looking and is this a good year to take the plunge with an investment?
There were more house sales in France in the 12 months to July 2018 than at any time since 2006 according to the latest property statistics. Here at My-French-House we have certainly had a busy year and we believe there are good reasons for this increase in activity.
The French Property Market
The property market in France is particularly buoyant at the moment thanks to historically cheap mortgages in France. Potential buyers are attracted by the stability of the French market at a time when there is less confidence in many other parts of Europe. As for real estate opportunities in Paris, that’s a whole different story.
A Foothold in Europe & the EU
Whatever the political landscape, the quality and pace of life in France rarely changes and having a property in France offers a foothold in Europe and the freedom to move around and work in neighbouring countries. France also offers easy access to Spain, Italy or Germany within just a few hours. We can help with your euro currency requirements, even travel money.
The Education System in France
France’s education system is renowned for promoting traditional values, polite student behaviour and a structured academic syllabus. Ex-pats appreciate the fact that France has a good choice of international schools and an excellent selection of local school options for children of all ages.
Sunshine & Four Seasons
France’s mild climate and the fact that most of the country experiences four clearly defined seasons rather than months and months of grey drizzle is a big draw for British buyers in particular. Moving to the South of France offers the promise of over 300 days of sunshine.
Rental Income
Second property owners who invest in warm and sunny destinations like the Dordogne, Nouvelle-Aquitaine and the Cote d’Azur can often achieve excellent returns on long term winter rentals and summer holiday rentals, particularly if their property has a pool.
Global Expat Appeal
Expats who have been working in the Middle East and are looking for somewhere to spend their retirement are attracted by the culture, good weather, excellent food and easy access throughout Europe that they can enjoy in the South of France. Occitanie, which includes the cosmopolitan department of Tarn-et-Garonne , is a popular choice thanks to its proximity to the international airports at Montpellier, Beziers, Carcassonne, Toulouse and Perpignan, its lively villages, medieval castles and locally produced food and drink.
Quieter Roads
Holidaymakers visiting France frequently remark on the empty roads an leisurely drives which are often in stark contrast to the road conditions experienced back home. France is a relaxing place to drive where traffic jams, pollution and road rage are rare, particularly away from the major cities.
Working from Home
Good availability of high-speed broadband and an economic shift towards more flexible and remote working mean it is finally possible to combine a lifestyle choice of living in rural France with a full or part-time job. Many people in the UK already work from home for all or part of the week so a move abroad is no longer a decision that has to wait until retirement.
Properties with Land
France offers value for money property and the realistic opportunity to buy a farm house with land for growing vegetables, keeping chickens, gardening, dining and entertaining outdoors.
Outdoor Living
France is a popular choice for anyone who enjoys hiking, climbing, skiing, cycling, swimming, surfing, playing tennis or just spending time outdoors. The mild climate, coast and countryside and spectacular mountain scenery of the Pyrénées Orientales and Hautes Pyrénées in Southwest of France and the Alpine Ardeche and Var in the South East are perfect for exploring by foot, bike, boat or on skis.
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