Price growth in French property market could be a catalyst for further rises

Individuals looking at Aquitaine real estate listings may be interested to hear that prices in Bordeaux climbed 2.5 per cent during the first quarter of 2010.

In addition, Lille, Lyon, Toulouse, Nice and Paris all experienced appreciation of property values during the period, the Chamber of Notaries has revealed.

The body believes that these strong increases could be an early sign that the French real estate market is about to experience further sharp rises.

In particular, Paris has been singled out as a destination where growth of around ten per cent may occur, with demand driven by older homes in the capital city.

Currently, investors looking to buy real estate in the French market will be able to capitalise on the strength of sterling against the euro.

John Busby, director of Athena Mortgages, said that the current return on investment for many individuals buying property in the country was "impressive".

"The pound is at a 19-month high against the euro and the horizon for rate increases still seems a way off and mortgage rates remain at their historic lows," he added.

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