Fancy the French escape? But not a château project or the Provence heat?
In this exclusive article Patrick JOSEPH, owner of My French House and French property expert, explores the best up and coming areas in France, where to find great value for money and the good life.
Selling houses in France for almost 20 years, the dedicated multi award winning website lists many fine properties in the most popular areas of France. Patrick says that since the beginning of the pandemic the market has been buoyant with French and EU buyers; Notaires de France last reported record levels of sales not seen since 2000 and possibly earlier.
The few instructions are snapped up quickly, often with multiple offers, while French banks strict lending criteria means it is much harder to borrow. He stresses the importance of being well informed. This year is already showing excellent signs as buyers who missed out in previous viewing trips are rushing to secure their dream home being well aware of the realities of the market and timescales involved, they just don’t want to miss out again this summer.
Patrick says Occitanie in the south of France is the new Provence! Here you can find good value for money for example, in the Hérault department where the sun shines on average 300 days per year and you find a stone village house for 200,000 euros or less.
For those seeking beach life, golf fun and great facilities the area near Beziers is ideal providing good access to the coast, various golf courses (and schools) and a choice of airports (Montpellier, Beziers and Carcassonne) which is useful at different times of the year.
He adds for those who prefer cooler weather, the Normandy area is known for its coasts, cliffs, green meadows, cheese and delicious cider. This area is popular for English buyers being easy to access from the UK, offering great value for money with a milder climate than further south for those who prefer to stay cool during the summer months or for their beloved animals.
Perhaps you’re thinking about a village location close to amenities or a character property with outbuildings? Have browse at their selection in Normandy here.
Lastly, one of Patrick’s tips is about the quiet region of Burgundy that has been gaining interest in recent years, particularly with professionals wanting to benefit from easy access to two of the main cities of France, and of course Europe.
Burgundy is famous the world over for its delicious wines but the area is also steeped in history and is known to be a foodie’s paradise. Burgundy is easy to get to from the UK (and Europe) thanks to its relative proximity to Paris, and is served by motorways and fast trains links to the French capital, Lyon, the Alps and beyond.
At My-French-House.com, Patrick Joseph and his team provide expert knowledge and service to help you find your dream home in France. From starting your search to signing the final contract, they can assist with every aspect of buying your dream French property.
To learn more about France and buying a property in the hexagon, visit their award-winning website, take a look at our buying guide and their popular blog full of tips and useful resources.
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