Despite rising property prices over the last couple of years, French property is still attracting international buyers from all over the World. We have seen a big increase in rural French property prices which has been a symptom of the pandemic – many city dwellers have moved out into rural areas due to home working, the quest for outdoor space and even to connect or reconnect with nature. Indeed, some property agents in rural areas are struggling to take properties on and have more buyers than sellers – the complete opposite of the market just four years ago!

There were approximately 1.2 million property transactions in the 12-month period to the end of November 2021. Approximately 50% of all transactions were deemed to be private or ‘entre particuliers’.

However, let us not forget that France still offers incredible value, particularly for unique country houses compared to many other European countries. In certain areas property prices are amongst the lowest in Western Europe. Also, land is plentiful and can be cheap – many observers quote the population of France is similar to the United Kingdom but France is twice the size in area.

So, what can you get for your money – this really depends on your requirements and budget. There are still many renovation projects that can be picked up in France at low prices, but the cost of materials has risen steeply in recent years so often it can be more attractive to buy a property already renovated.

Take a look at our current listings in France here!

So there really is a property for any budget and type. There are many historic stone houses, converted farm buildings and architecturally unique houses that can be found all over France. Each region tends to have it’s own style of property often reflecting locally sourced materials such a granite and slate in Brittany for example.

But buying in France is not just about the property, you are buying in to the lifestyle experience. Whether you go rural, to a village, a wine region or by the coast, France has an enviable lifestyle and culture. Every village will generally have a traditional boulangerie where you can buy croissants, baguettes, bread and cakes/deserts. The food is generally amazing, it is still possible to get a three-course lunch with wine for circa €15, often from a ‘Les Routiers’ restaurant (truck stop). Then there is the wine – France and Italy are the two biggest wine producing countries and wine regions are situated all over the country from Champagne in the North to Corsica in the Mediterranean with the great regions of Bordeaux and Burgundy in between.

Healthcare in France is regarded as amongst the finest in Europe, if not the World. For retiree’s there is a competitive income tax regime on pensions that makes France one of the most attractive destinations for retired couples/individuals.

So, whether you are looking for a “lock-up and leave” holiday home, a family home, a home to retire to or even a rural estate to start a yoga retreat, France merits your attention.

Europe Properties have been working hard to list thousands of new properties in the top destinations throughout Europe.

Europe properties is a viable alternative to other property portals providing a personal approach to our valued customers.

We are proud to have many reputable partners; from offering property listings to personalised services.

The international residential property market remains strong by providing a range of tax incentives, affordable pricing & the possibility of ‘remote working’. The demand from overseas house hunters is still increasing supercharging the desire to buy primary & holiday homes throughout Europe.