Real Estate & Property Investment News in France from Propertyshowrooms.com

New French trust laws are the 'largest development in overseas property for a decade'

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

France could benefit from a massive influx of foreign property investment after its government decided to implement the country's first ever trust law.

A report on Overseas Property Professional has explained that the new guidelines mean that foreign pension trustees will now be allowed to invest in leaseback property within the country.

Furthermore, wealthy investors can now avoid heavy taxation when using offshore funds for property transactions.

Investors from tax havens such as Jersey, Guernsey, the Isle of Man, the British Virgin Islands and the Cayman Islands will now be exempt from the three per cent penalty that has been applied in past years.

David Anderson, of law and tax firm Sykes Anderson, told OPP that this could represent one of the largest developments in overseas property of the last ten years.

"We're seeing quite a run of high net worth individuals with offshore funds focusing on trophy properties and asset classes that can't be bought in the UK, such as vineyards and ski lodges, as well as prime agricultural land."

A survey conducted by HomeAway and Savills recently claimed that France was set to become an investment hotspot during 2010.

France could be an investment hotspot this year

Tue, 9 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

French property is likely to be at the forefront of the minds of many investors this year, with foreign buyers looking to capitalise on the popularity of eurozone destinations.

According to a survey conducted by HomeAway.co.uk and Savills, there will be a resurgence in wealthy lifestyle buyers, purchasing property with cash.

Established markets such as France are likely to be the beneficiaries of the property buyers as many shy away from more risky markets in light of the economic climate.

Courtney Wylie, general manager at HomeAway Holiday-Rentals, commented: "Traditional holiday hotspots are among the top-performing destinations … with places like the Cote d'Azur, Malaga Province, the Balearics and the Algarve all being great options for reliable rental returns.

"For anyone hoping to rent, it is essential to research the tourist market first, particularly when considering emerging markets. Access to the destination should also be considered."

International Property Magazine recently placed France at the top of its Quality of Life Index for the fifth year in a row.

French Alps good for investment

Sat, 27 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

An apartment in the French Alps could represent a good investment opportunity for overseas buyers this year, it has been claimed.

Estate agent Knight Frank has released its top recommendations for investment in France during 2010 and Chamonix is expected to fare well.

The property portal says that it has experienced an increased demand for houses in the region and as such prices have remained relatively stable.

Paul Humphreys, head of Knight Frank's French department, explained that property prices in Chamonix have now become more affordable.

He continued: "The snow has again been good and despite the last two years in the financial world, the skiing season has been busy in 2008-09 and 2009-10 so far, giving a good basis for both a lifestyle and investment purchase.

"Those areas where prices have reduced, sales volumes will increase while demand for property in the prime locations will underpin price stability in these areas."

France was recently awarded the top spot in International Property Magazine's Quality of Life Index for the fifth year in a row.

Euro mortgages could save British investors thousands of pounds

Thu, 18 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

An increasing number of British investors buying property in European countries, such as France, are beating the exchange rate by taking out mortgages in euros, it has been reported.

Overseas Property Professional (OPP) has stated that individuals can potentially make a saving of thousands of pounds by borrowing euros and waiting until the GBP strengthens before repaying the loans.

Mortgage broker International Private Finance has seen applications for mortgages in euros increase by 70 per cent during January, compared to last year.

Elisabeth Dobson, head of private clients at World First, explained to OPP: "As cheap rates are currently available, they are taking the long-term view that the euro will weaken against the pound and their European property will ultimately become cheaper to buy."

The National Association of Estate Agents International recently said that France is likely to benefit in 2010 from not having an overpriced housing market.

This will ensure that prices in the country are at their most affordable for many years.

Housing market expected to stabilise in France during 2010

Tue, 16 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Property prices in France are expected to stabilise during 2010, according to the latest statistics.

A report by overseas housing network website Property Community shows that the latest housing data for the country highlights that values have fallen in consecutive years.

The figures released by FNAIM, France's real estate agency, show that over the course of 2009 prices fell nationally by 4.9 per cent.

A year ago the organisation was predicting a ten per cent fall in prices, more than double the actual figure.

However, the agency is predicting a more positive year, saying that the market should stabilise and some areas could see a three per cent increase in prices.

FNAIM president Rene Pallinourt cites the availability of cheaper loans and more consumer confidence as being the main drivers behind the market.

However, he warned that although France appears to be recovering well from the economic crisis, many people in the country still remain "downbeat".

International Property Magazine recently placed France at the top of its Quality of Life Index for the fifth year in a row.

Leasebacks in the French Alps present a 'good investment opportunity'

Tue, 9 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The French Alps could provide British investors with a good opportunity, it has been reported.

British daily newspaper the Independent has said that ski-resort apartments in the region could represent an ideal "nest egg" for those looking for property.

They recommend investors taking advantage of leaseback deals, which ensure that any running costs encountered on the property such as bills, repairs or maintenance are met by the property's managing company.

Clare Nessling, operations director at Conti Financial Services, explained to the paper how French mortgage lenders had helped ensure the property market in the country had survived the economic conditions.

She said: "French lenders will want to see that 35 per cent of your gross monthly income is sufficient to cover the new mortgage and all of your existing liabilities in the UK.

"Affordability is therefore based on existing debt rather than income levels, that is why France has fared relatively well in the downturn."

According to Nick Dowlatshahi, managing director at Leapfrog Properties, more investors will be looking to buy into stable economies such as France in 2010.

France will continue to offer "excellent deals" for investors

Tue, 2 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Property investors were able to get some "excellent deals" in France last year and this trend is likely to continue throughout 2010.

According to Nick Dowlatshahi, managing director at Leapfrog Properties, the trend of investors buying into more stable economies such as France helped boost sales.

Mr Dowlatshahi recommended that potential purchasers bypass new developments and look to year-old sites in order to pick up a bargain, with developers slashing prices to pay back bank loans.

"2009 was a very good year for people buying French property; not the holiday home buyers or people moving to France, but pure investors who were after some discounted deals from developers," he noted.

"A lot of investors switched from other more unstable countries to France because of the discounts and because of the stability."

He added that the country offered investors plenty of potential, with opportunities for investment nationwide.

International Property Magazine recently placed France at the top of its Quality of Life Index for the fifth year in a row.

Investors can capitalise on the affordability of property in France

Mon, 1 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

French property is looking like it could be at its most affordable for years, according to one expert.

Keith Baker, vice chairman of the National Association of Estate Agents International (NAEA), has revealed his predictions for the country's property market in 2010.

He believes that although the global economic downturn made it hard for the real estate industry, France has benefitted from not having an overpriced market and a more cautious approach to mortgage lending.

"French property is likely to be the most affordable for many years. Property prices are now at a more reasonable level of affordability and are set to continue stabilising in the coming months," he said.

"It is still a buyer's market and confidence is very much apparent. Good quality properties in great locations are always highly sought after."

The NAEA also stated that investors will be looking to purchase property in less risky and more stable environments this year.

European Union figures, released late last year, show that France and Spain are among the countries with the most foreign citizens living within their borders.

France sees resurgence in foreign investment

Wed, 27 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Low interest rates on French mortgages are bringing investors back to the country, one travel and property website has said.

According to easier.com, many Brits who held back on overseas investment during the economic crisis are taking advantage of the cheap rates now on offer.

The rush to take advantage of low prices is helping to drive the property market in France forward at its fastest rate in two years.

"People who had felt it wise due to the recession to put their purchase on hold until late 2010 have suddenly realised that now is the best time to buy if they are going to finance the purchase with a mortgage," the website claims.

Currently exchange rates between the GBP and EUR are at the highest they have been since August 2008, making this a good time to purchase property in eurozone countries.

Meanwhile, International Living magazine's Quality of Life Index lists France as the best destination in which to live.

France 'top destination' for quality of living

Wed, 13 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

International Living Magazine has put France top of its Quality of Life Index, something which could make it even more popular among potential investors.

France was awarded top spot in the list ahead of other popular locations such as Australia and the US.

Eleanor O'Kane, editor of Living France magazine, believes that the lifestyle on offer combined with value for money property has contributed to the country's success.

"The most popular area at the moment is Creuse - department number 23 - in Limousin. This is because despite it being rural, it is easily accessible and the property is reasonably priced," she remarked.

The news comes after primelocation.com reported that, in November, they were experiencing similar levels of international property searches as before the economic crisis.

According to the property website, searches for international property in France took up 29 per cent of its total search volume that month with Spain the only country proving more popular.

Foreign property investors 'on the increase'

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Foreign property investors are starting to re-enter the market again, following a period of dominance by lifestyle purchasers, it has been stated.

This view was proffered by Adam Samuel, a director at overseas property portal Nubricks.com, who said that the past two years have seen most buyers looking to locations such as Spain, parts of the US and Cyprus.

Now, however, new destinations like Germany are coming onto the radar as investors see their wealth grow, he noted.

One location which is very much a lifestyle destination is France, Mr Samuel commented, remarking: "Investors are less likely to buy in that area as opposed to lifestyle buyers."

He stated that this explains why the country has recently slipped down the list of the most searched-for countries on the Property Abroad website.

This site, which put the US at the top of the list and Spain second, had France in tenth place for searches in December, down from fourth a month earlier.

France 'offering Alpine property bargains'

Tue, 15 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

France is offering a wealth of property bargains in the Alps, it has been stated.

In a feature on the ski areas of the mountains, the Daily Mail noted that the anecdotal evidence of property professionals is that the country's winter sports regions have seen a softening in value.

Ski specialist Erna Low was quoted by the paper as stating: "Interestingly, it is largely the French who are snapping them up, exploiting recent domestic tax breaks while the British are dithering."

Ms Low is selling properties in the Arc 1950 development for around 33 per cent less than the 2007 peak price.

Britons keen to invest may wish to do so now before values rise significantly again.

Figures from Knight Frank's Global House Price Survey for the third quarter of 2009 indicated that the country saw an eight per cent fall in the year to the end of the third quarter, but a 1.9 per cent rise in the three months to October.

French property hints at recovery

Fri, 11 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Property in France is starting to increase in value, new figures have indicated.

The Knight Frank Global House Price Index for the third quarter of the year showed that overall, the year-on-year trend in the country had been for prices to decline by eight per cent.

However, the period between July and September saw the cost of a home in the country increase by 1.9 per cent, suggesting that the market there could be bouncing back, while at the same time offering lower prices than would have to have been paid a year ago.

The development comes at a time when economies and housing markets alike are showing increasingly positive signs.

Head of residential research at Knight Frank Liam Bailey observed that nearly seven out of ten countries are now seeing residential property prices rise, compared with only half in the second quarter.

France's improvement may be linked to its economic recovery, with recent figures from Eurostat showing that it saw growth for the second successive quarter in the three months to October.

French property boost as ECB signals wind-down of stimulus

Sat, 5 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The European Central Bank (ECB) has revealed that it is to wind down its stimulus package in recognition that economic conditions are improving.

Measures to boost liquidity will be gradually scaled back in the coming months, ECB president Jean-Claude Trichet announced.

At the same time, the body held interest rates, maintaining the primary refinancing operations level at one per cent, something that may help keep the cost of euro mortgages down.

The improvement in conditions in the eurozone economy - which is now out of recession - may spell good news for investors in France, as better circumstances could help the growth of property values there.

One place in France that buyers might wish to look is Paris, according to a recent Daily Mail feature on the French capital.

The paper pointed out that because it is built up with little space to expand and has high level of buyer demand, the city will always hold its value.

Another advantage it noted was its ease of access, being two hours and 15 minutes from St Pancras via the Eurostar.

Britons 'still inspired to go to France'

Fri, 27 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Britons are still prompted to go to France by the image of the country presented by author Peter Mayle, it has been stated.

Editor of Living France Magazine Eleanor O'Kane told Breaking Travel News that the writer's book - A Year in Provence - helped spark greater interest in living across the channel when it was published 20 years ago.

She said that the magazine is the best selling publication of its type and attributed this to the enduring popularity of the country with British buyers.

"Twenty years on and thousands of Brits still want to make the move to France," Ms O'Kane noted.

The editor made the remarks as she announced that Living France is interviewing Mr Mayle to mark the anniversary of the book's release and to find out more from him on "what people moving to France today can expect".

Property portals Homes Overseas and Homesgofast both listed France as second only to Brazil among the best places to buy property in 2010.

France show tip for interested parties

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Those who may be interested in buying property in France could be keen to find out more at the France Show in London next month.

The Daily Telegraph has produced a guide to the themes of the event, which includes French property.

It will also provide a chance for people to sample French culture, cuisine, wine and art during the show, taking place at Earls Court from January 8th-10th.

Such aspects of French life may be of interest to those thinking of moving there.

Last month, the paper noted that French Property News is running the real estate aspect of the show, with this including professionals such as estate agents, solicitors and banks to help and advise on all aspects of the process of buying there.

As well as the seminars, there will be thousands of available properties on display.

The French property market may be boosted by recent news that it has just enjoyed its second successive quarter of economic growth, having emerged from recession halfway through 2009.

EU out of recession

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The EU is now out of recession, official figures from Eurostat have revealed.

Data for the third quarter of 2009 has shown that across the 27-country bloc as a whole, there was a 0.2 per cent increase in gross domestic product.

In the eurozone, the level was greater at 0.4 per cent.

Those keen on buying property in Portugal may be particularly encouraged, as the 0.5 per cent seen in the second quarter was surpassed by 0.9 per cent expansion in the following three months.

Another country to see an improvement was Italy, which emerged from recession with a 0.6 per cent rise in gross domestic product.

Meanwhile, France saw 0.3 per cent growth for the second quarter in a row.

These figures contrasted with those of some countries that are lagging behind, with seven states for whom data for the three months to September is available still in recession, the UK being among them.

Today's figures follow data earlier this week from Eurostat showing a 0.3 per cent increase industrial output in the quarter.

Bargains 'plentiful in France'

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Britons willing to do some renovation could find plenty of affordable properties in France, it has been suggested.

Expat magazine Shelter Offshore noted a number of examples where houses in need of work could be had for as little as €50,000 (£44,600).

Among these were a two-bedroom home in Brittany and stone cottage in the mid-Pyrenees, with the website noting that the latter property - which needs a full restoration - is located in a "stunning position in half an acre of garden on the edge of a tiny hamlet".

For €65,000 buyers could get a house near Chateauponsac in Limousin, which is accessible to the airport at Limoges and could be turned into a bed and breakfast establishment.

Last month, Shelter Offshore's director Rhiannon Davies said many Britons are keen on a French rural property in a place offering "the best balance between escapism and finding great weather, a fantastic lifestyle and an affordable cost of living".

Eurostar 'makes south-west France more accessible'

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Many parts of France are now much more accessible and therefore attractive to Britons because of the Eurostar, it has been stated.

A Times feature on the issue found that Britons are increasingly keen to live in certain parts of France, Germany and the Low Countries that have easy connections with the cross-channel service, so that they can get back to Britain quickly at any time.

This includes areas served by other high-speed rail, such as the south-west of France, according to sales manager for international property firm Assetz Martin Sadler.

He remarked: "Eurostar's connection to the TGV has opened up areas of the south-west of France, which previously had been hard to get to."

Being close to such connections can add a premium to the price of up to 15 per cent, noted head of Savills International Charles Weston Baker.

Earlier this month, director of expat portal Shelter Offshore Rhiannon Davies said the "fantastic lifestyle and an affordable cost of living" draws many Britons to rural parts of the country.

France 'offering wide appeal to buyers'

Thu, 22 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Britons keen on buying property in France do so for a wide number of reasons, an expert on emigration has said.

Director of expat portal Shelter Offshore Rhiannon Davies remarked that Paris is a favourite with many, although some prefer alternatives to urban living.

She observed: "Britons are still seeking out the rural idyll that provides them with the best balance between escapism and finding great weather, a fantastic lifestyle and an affordable cost of living."

Other reasons for the popularity of the country include its food and wine, culture and proximity to Britain, Ms Davies noted.

She was speaking after consumer website uSwitch placed France top of ten European nations in terms of quality of life, a list that also put the UK at the bottom.

It noted that the country has a lower cost of living, better weather, higher levels of public health spending and more public holidays in comparison with Britain.

Fractional ownership serves up ace prospect, says Henman

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Former tennis star Tim Henman has praised the value of fractional ownership.

Since retiring from the sport, the 35-year old has built up a property portfolio both in the UK and overseas, telling the Daily Telegraph that he particularly enjoys using his family's fractionally-owned property in a forested area of Provence.

"It's a beautiful location, there's no one overlooking us and the house has kept traditional features such as the old beams, but it also has great contemporary touches," he said.

Mr Henman stated that the investment is a "fantastic" one, as it means his family has six weeks per year when they can use the home while carrying no responsibility for matters of upkeep.

It also offers investors the chance to actually own an asset, unlike in the case of timeshares, he noted.

The south of France is a particularly good place in which to invest in rental property, head of research at investment firm Property Frontiers Christopher Chadd commented this month.

He said that Languedoc and the south coast are prime areas, while those who want an investment that is sure to hold its value can also look to Paris.

Tourist areas 'best for French property'

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Those keen to buy property in France should concentrate on tourist areas for the best returns, it has been stated.

Head of research at investment firm Property Frontiers Christopher Chadd advised: "In France I would look at all the areas where tourism levels remain high, anywhere on the south coast perhaps in the region of Languedoc."

He said the country offers government-backed guarantees where 25-year leases exist with seven per cent returns, something he suggested was the best investment to look for.

Mr Chadd also recommended prime real estate in Paris as something that will always have high value.

At present, France has a "stronger" property prospect than neighbouring Spain, which is still in recession, he concluded.

The comments come after a uSwitch.com report on quality of life issues placed France as the best place to live out of ten European nations, with Spain second and Britain in last place.

France and Italy tipped for growth

Wed, 14 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

France and Italy have emerged as countries appearing set for strong economic growth in the months ahead.

The latest composite leading indicators (CLIs) from The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development show the two countries - which are already out of recession - to have seen respective improvements of 1.3 points and two points in August

This put France up 6.6 points higher than in August 2008, while the annual improvement in Italy was 10.4 points.

Such figures may suggest that the property markets in those countries will be able to enjoy healthy growth as a result of strong economic recoveries.

France has already had a potential boost in recent days with news that the uSwitch.com Quality of Life Index has rated it the best of ten major nations in Europe as a place to live.

This was based on factors such as life expectancy, healthcare investment, the cost of living and weather.

Euro rate held

Sat, 10 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The European Central Bank (ECB) has announced its decision to hold interest rates again.

Yesterday saw the governing council maintaining its three rates at their current levels, a move that came shortly after the Bank of England's decision to keep sterling rates the same.

Explaining the move, president of the ECB Jean-Claude Trichet remarked that the eurozone economy is "stabilising and is expected to recover at a gradual pace," although progress will be "uneven" in the months ahead.

This may suggest that the inflationary pressures in the eurozone will remain low for the time being, which could help keep down the cost of mortgages for those buying property in countries like France.

Revised data from the European Union published this week has stated that the eurozone as a whole saw an economic contraction of 0.2 per cent in the second quarter.

The figures confirmed that France achieved 0.3 per cent growth during the period.

Overseas property buyers 'need to do research'

Thu, 8 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Those moving abroad to countries such as France need to do plenty of research to make the move work, it has been advised.

Rhiannon Davies from Shelter Offshore told the Daily Telegraph: "Assumption is an expat's potential downfall."

She added: "Anyone thinking about going to live abroad needs to do masses of research before they commit to the move if they want to avoid all nasty surprises."

One of these is that anyone moving to France usually needs to prove they own a French property before they can open a bank account there.

Another recommendation offered in the paper came from Danny Cox, a chartered financial adviser at Hargreaves Lansdown.

He explained that those looking to make improvements to a French property and seeking to use equity release to pay for it will find a three-month application process to be the norm, as is the requirement to stipulate what the money will be used for.

French property prospects may have received a boost following a recent International Monetary Fund report.

It said that the country will see its gross domestic product increase by 0.9 per cent in 2010, compared with 0.3 per cent for the eurozone overall.

Buyers 'looking to Europe again'

Thu, 8 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

British buyers are starting to look to purchase second homes on the continent again, it has been claimed.

Editor at A Place in the Sun Magazine Richard Way said a UN survey highlighting Norway, Iceland and Australia as the best places in the world to live did not tell an accurate picture for Britons looking for a second home.

Of these three, only Australia is a popular location for UK buyers, as the other two lack warm, sunny weather, he stated.

Mr Way remarked that Britons are focusing on familiar European destinations, as these are the places they are "comfortable with and that are easy to get to from the UK".

He predicted a "gradual" increase in overseas purchases in these places over the next two years, rather than a sudden boom.

The improved popularity of traditional European property hotspots was highlighted by overseas mortgage providers Conti last month.

It noted that a greater proportion of enquiries it received were about France and Spain this year than in 2008, with the French sector seeing these more than double.

IMF forecast may boost French property

Fri, 2 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The French property market may be set for a boost as the International Monetary Fund (IMF) predicted that it would be the best performing of the large national economies in the eurozone next year.

In its latest World Economic Outlook projections, the body said that France will see a 0.9 per cent rise in gross domestic product (GDP) in 2010, compared with a 0.3 per cent rise for the eurozone as a whole.

Germany will see a 0.3 per cent rise and Italy 0.2 per cent, it predicted.

Such a situation could see the French property enjoying better prospects, as a stronger national economy may help underpin prices and bring unemployment down sooner than in other countries.

Among other places tipped for growth, the US was projected to see a 1.5 per cent rise in GDP.

And the newly-industrialised Asian economies are anticipated to grow by 3.6 per cent, something that may interest those thinking of investing in Thailand or Malaysia.

France is a highly stable market where mortgages of 100 per cent loan-to-value have been easier to get than elsewhere during the credit crunch, director of overseas mortgage brokers Conti Clare Nessling recently told the Independent.

France 'remains stable' for property buyers

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The French property market has retained a high level of stability due to the way French banks have gone about their lending policies, it has been stated.

Director of overseas mortgage brokers Conti Clare Nessling told the Independent that this has led to loans for buying homes being more readily available.

She remarked: "They [French banks] certainly haven't taken the extreme view that most UK lenders did. Throughout the credit crunch we've still been able to get 100 per cent mortgages in France for loans over EUR250,000 (GPB230,000)."

The paper reports that four-fifths of mortgages in the country are fixed, which the paper remarked may be another reason for the country's property market performing better than Britain's.

Evidence for this came from the French National Association of Real Estate Agents, whose figures stated that prices rose by 3.9 per cent in the second quarter of this year.

British buyers will make up 20 per cent of those purchasing French property in 2009, according to the country's leading mortgage lender BNP Paribas, the Daily Telegraph reports.

Britons 'to have 20% share' of French market

Sat, 19 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A fifth of overseas property buyers in France this year will be Britons, it has been predicted.

Such a forecast comes from French bank BNP Paribas, the largest lender to foreign buyers in the country, the Times reports.

In its feature on property in the Languedoc region, the paper suggested Britons would go for developments such as the Domaine de Lavagnac estate, which has a range of facilities including sporting and shopping amenities.

The location also has 500 villas and flats for sale, starting at €395,000 (£340,830) and ranging up to €1.6 million.

Such homes may appeal to those looking to buy in the south of France.

Last week, overseas mortgage firm Conti said that France has seen a major rise in its popularity since last year.

The country has accounted for 31 per cent of enquiries the firm has received about international mortgages so far this year, more than double last year's total.

France 'the most popular British market'

Thu, 17 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

More people want to buy an overseas property in France than anywhere else, it has been stated.

Overseas mortgage firm Conti revealed that so far this year the country has been the subject of 31 per cent of customer enquiries, making it the most popular destination.

This tally more than doubled the 15 per cent of enquiries France accounted for in 2008.

Analysing the findings, the firm said the cautious lending and consequent greater stability of French banks means there is more mortgage choice there, with 100 per cent home loan deals available.

It also noted that property prices have been trimmed by many sellers to secure a transaction, making it a "buyers' market".

This and low interest rates make it an "increasingly attractive investment proposition", Conti declared.

Last week, estate agent with Leggett Immobilier Mary Hawkins told the Times that many of the bargains can be gained from Britons looking to sell their French properties so they can buy in Britain as UK prices begin to increase again.

France 'offering wide range of bargains'

Tue, 8 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

British buyers looking to offload their French homes are presenting a number of bargain opportunities for buyers, it has been noted.

In a feature on overseas property markets, the Times quoted Brittany-based estate agent Mary Hawkins from Leggett Immobilier, who noted that many of these are UK residents looking to sell up and re-enter the UK sector as British prices start to rise again.

She also stated that opportunities in Brittany are arising from a change in Breton lifestyles.

"Bretons are selling their traditional houses and opting instead for newly built bungalows, so there are a number of stone cottages that are competing for potential buyers," Ms Hawkins remarked.

Earlier this month, the Daily Mail reported that some French property sellers have dropped their asking prices by as much as 30 per cent.

It calculated that such a fall means the cost of buying there now is cheaper than in 2007, as the fall more than compensates for the fall in the value of sterling against the euro.

Eurozone economic recovery 'gathering pace'

Sat, 5 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Eurozone is seeing its economy gather pace, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has stated.

In its latest Interim Economic Assessment the body has said the Group of Seven leading economic nations will see their total fall in gross domestic product for 2009 amount to a dip of 3.7 per cent, compared with the previous forecast of 4.1 per cent.

It stated that the places where the outlook is improving are the eurozone and Japan, something that may encourage those thinking of buying European property in places such as France or Portugal.

The OECD also said the outlook for the US is unchanged, while Britain's outlook is less positive than it was.

People thinking of buying in Europe may take the projection as confirmation that the economic fortunes that could underpin a rise in property values are starting to emerge.

Recent official European Union data showed that in the second quarter of the year both France and Portugal saw 0.3 per cent growth, taking those countries out of recession.

Property in France 'getting cheaper'

Wed, 2 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Properties in France can be cheaper to buy now than they were in 2007 despite the weak pound, it has been stated.

In an article on chateaux in the Dordogne region, the Daily Mail observed that sellers have been lowering their asking prices by between ten and 30 per cent.

The paper calculated that a home where the reduction was by the latter figure would be cheaper now than in 2007, even though the pound was worth as much as EUR1.50 that year.

Georgina Caldwell of French Property News explained to the news provider that market sentiment in France is getting better.

Noting that one estate agent had "sold a house every week for the past four months", she stated: "The outlook in the market is positive."

French Property News recently stated that those looking for a bargain in France might be able to do this via an auction.

It also said this is often a productive route for those seeking an unusual home.

France tipped as good place to buy property at auction

Sat, 22 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

France can offer some good opportunities to save money at property auctions, it has been stated.

Investor magazine French Property News noted that while there are not a large number of properties going for sale in this manner, there can often be bargains to be had when there are.

As well as this, buyers can save on agents' fees and it is a good way to pick up unusual houses, the magazine suggested.

Its advice to those considering this method is to first attend some auctions without purchasing in order to become familiar with the process, while buyers should be fluent in French or have someone with them who is.

The magazine also said that once the highest bid is lodged, there is a ten-day waiting period to see if anyone can come up with a new bid of at least ten per cent more, at which point the lot would go back to auction at the new higher price.

Earlier this week, director of French property firm Athena Mortgages John Busby said the market in the country is very stable, but with notable regional variations, Country Life reported.

Value of sterling 'poised to rise'

Thu, 20 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The pound is set fair to rise in value against the majority of overseas currencies in the coming months, an expert has said.

Evaluating the pound's prospects, currency strategist at foreign exchange firm HiFX Marc Cogliatti remarked: "Things are pretty encouraging."

He added: "And overall that will continue to allow the pound to appreciate against the vast majority of its counterparts."

Such a situation could help make property in countries such as the US more affordable.

The one area of uncertainty concerns the price of sterling against the euro, following news that France and Germany are now out of recession while Britain is still in it.

Mr Cogliatti remarked that while people should not get "carried away" with this data, it does ask "a few questions" about the future directions of the euro and pound.

The comments came after France and Germany both showed 0.3 per cent growth in the second quarter of this year.

Official figures in Britain recorded a 0.8 per cent decline over the same period, the fifth successive quarter of negative growth.

Stimulus 'has done the job' in France

Wed, 19 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

France's economy has been successfully boosted by the economic stimulus its government put in place, an economic expert has said.

Professor Iain Begg from the European Institute of the London School of Economics argued that measures such as fiscal stimulus, tax cuts and lower interest rates "are now working" and this explains why France and Germany are out of recession.

He suggested those who had questioned why such measures were having no apparent effect a few months ago "will probably find that they have miscalculated" and predicted that Britain will also inevitably recover in time thanks to its own package.

France's property market may be boosted by the development and on the basis of Professor Begg's comments other countries may also benefit.

This could mean better prospects for investors in counties like the US, which introduced its own package earlier this year.

Figures from the Statistical Office of the European Communities Eurostat showed that the eurozone economy as a whole saw a 0.1 per cent contraction in the second quarter, in contrast with the 0.3 per cent growth rate seen in France and Germany, as well as Greece and Portugal.

French property prices 'holding steady'

Wed, 19 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Property prices in France are stable at present, a mortgage provider has stated.

Director of French property firm Athena Mortgages John Busby remarked that a mixture of price rises and regional variations is giving "overall stability to the French market", Country Life Magazine reports.

The publication noted that this has seen variations such as a 1.6 per cent rise in Brittany but a 14 per cent drop in Normandy over the past year.

Athena's latest report shows banks to be increasingly willing to lend, the magazine noted.

Such a situation could help those keen to buy in France to pick up a property at a price that suits them.

Overseas mortgage expert with Conti Finance Michael Axelrod wrote on the Mortgage Solutions-Online website this week that the current market in the country is "calm" and that obtaining mortgage finance there is easier than in Britain.

This is because French banks had less exposure to the US subprime losses, he noted.

French property market 'very calm'

Tue, 18 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The French property market is "very calm" and not subject to the sort of credit crunch problems seen in the UK, it has been stated.

In an article for mortgage-solutions online on obtaining home loans abroad, Micheal Axelrod, an overseas mortgage expert with Conti Finance stated: "French banks are immensely careful about whom they lend to."

He added: "To limit risks, most of them spread their investments much more widely than those in the US or UK."

The article added that for this reason they will still be willing to lend 100 per cent loan-to-value (LTV) mortgages to those considered a reasonable risk, with 80 per cent LTV deals being "pretty normal".

It went on to suggest that now could be a good time to invest with overseas interest rates being low.

As part of the eurozone, France has seen its interest costs plummet as the European Central Bank has trimmed its main refinancing rate from 3.75 per cent last October to one per cent now.

Many Britons 'taking long-term view' of French property

Tue, 18 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Many British investors in French property are taking a long-term view of property values, it has been stated.

Writing in the Daily Telegraph, expat Frederic Raphael stated that a number of Britons have been struggling with the additional costs of buying and living created by the weakness of the pound against the euro.

He noted that for those who are looking to sell up in the south-west of the country, they will be "unlikely" to get the same price as they paid, something that may interest investors who do get the chance to acquire a property.

Mr Raphael stated that those Britons residing in France may enjoy the lifestyle as well as a relative lack of Anglicisation in the current climate, with the knowledge that eventually the cost differences will be eliminated by a strengthened pound.

Those keen on buying property in France and seeing the value of their property rise may have been encouraged by news last week that the country is no longer in recession.

France saw its gross domestic product increase by 0.3 per cent in the second quarter of this year.

French prospects in possible boost as recession ends

Fri, 14 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The French property market could be in line for a boost as new figures have revealed that the country came out of recession in the second quarter.

After 12 months of decline, France saw its economy grow by 0.3 per cent between April and June, defying the expectations of analysts and ministers.

A Reuters poll had predicted a 0.3 per cent decline in gross domestic product (GDP) and economy minister Christine Lagarde described the figures as "very surprising".

News of the growth came at the same time as Germany also emerged from recession with a 0.3 per cent GDP rise.

Such news may help bolster confidence in the French property market and increase the prospects of values rising over the next few month and years.

One causal factor in the recovery of France may be the low euro interest rate.

The main refinancing operations rate currently stands at one per cent, having been reduced from a level of 3.75 per cent since October last year.

French property boost as Ryanair announces new flights

Wed, 12 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

People looking to buy property in France may benefit from a range of new flights being launched by budget airline Ryanair.

The carrier has revealed it is establishing a new hub of operations at Leeds-Bradford Airport, with a number of French destinations among the locations it will serve.

It has listed Limoges, Montpellier and Nantes among the "17 exciting destinations all over Europe including France, Italy and Spain among others" that will be served by the airport from March 2010.

Of these, 14 are new routes, with three existing destinations also being served from Leeds-Bradford.

Those keen to get to France from Yorkshire may find this aids their access to and from Britain.

Last month the Dordogne region was described as being the most beautiful part of France for people to buy in.

Frenchestateagents.com offered such a view of the area and noted that Limoges is one of the three airports that offers access from the UK.

Dordogne described as 'most beautiful' for buyers

Thu, 16 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Dordogne region of France offers one of the best prospects for overseas buyers due to its attractiveness, it has been stated.

According to Frenchestateagents.com, "many people, including many expatriates, feel that the Dordogne is one of the most beautiful regions of France".

The site noted that the department has ten per cent of all the chateaux in France and has good air links with the UK via Limoges, Bergerac and Bordeaux airports.

It made the comments about the region while giving an example of one of the properties it offers, a four-bedroom house worth EUR376,000 (GBP322,000).

Those keen to buy a home in France may find it costs them less to do so in the near future, according to a senior Bank of England official.

Adam Posen, who is to become the newest member of the Bank's Monetary Policy Committee, told the House of Commons Treasury Select Committee that the pound will trade at a higher level against the euro in the medium term.

Pyrenees destination hailed by celebrity chef

Fri, 10 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A celebrity chef has praised Aveyron in the midi-Pyrenees in an article in which a number of French experts were asked about the best places to travel to in France.

Speaking to the Observer, Cyril Lignac compared the region to some of the "most beautiful parts" of Britain's countryside, something that may interest overseas property investors.

He was born in Aveyron and called it a "hidden gem", with a number of beautiful lakes for watersports and bathing, cafes to sit in and relax and "lots of beautiful little medieval villages".

"Cuisine is part of the culture there because you have everything you need for cooking," he explained. "It's a farming region - very green."

In the same article, travel editor Jean-Pierre Chanial chose La Lozere in southern France as his top destination because of its natural beauty, rich bird life and attractive towns.

Located to the south-west of the Massif Central mountain range, Aveyron covers a range of landscapes, including its limestone plateaux - known as the Causses - which have unique flower species and river gorges.

Parts of France 'avoided boom and bust'

Fri, 26 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Some of the most attractive parts of France have avoided getting into a boom and bust scenario in recent years, it has been stated.

Writing in the Irish Times, Isabel Morton noted that the Riviera and Paris have avoided the "boom and bust" seen elsewhere.

However, she said there is a slower rate of transactions and prices are down on the Cote d'Azur by around ten per cent, although "as per usual, well-located properties are still doing very well".

Such a situation may tempt those thinking of buying French property in the area, as it may be possible to pick up bargains before the market reasserts itself.

The Daily Telegraph reported this week that a recent drop in the number of British buyers in France could be attributed to the weakness of the pound, according to estate agents in the country.

However it predicted, with sterling recovering in value this situation will not last.

Appeal of France 'still remains'

Tue, 23 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Investing in property in France is something Britons are still keen to do, it has been stated.

Estate agency Stuart Baldock of buying agent Property Vision told the Daily Telegraph that many UK buyers have been held back from buying in the country recently due to the weak value of the pound.

However, the paper noted, it is not expected that this situation will last, as sterling is gaining in strength against the euro and the appeal of France has not diminished.

Summarising the benefits of the country to the paper, owner of a home once lived in by singer Edith Piaf Rupert Scott said: "At the end of the day, the tax is still cheaper and you get more house and land for your money."

Speaking as publisher Archant announced a French property exhibition to be held in London in September, editor of French Property News Karen Tait remarked that recent falls in French prices are "outweighing" the weakness of the pound.

Exhibition of French property set for London

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A French property exhibition will be held in London in September, publisher Archant has said.

Run by lifestyle magazine Archant Life France, the event will take place from September 11th to 13th at Olympia, with the company stating that the recent exhibition held in Harrogate revealed widespread optimism about the French market.

Describing France as a place currently offering "some real bargains", editor of French Property News Karen Tait commented: "Many French properties have come down in price significantly over recent months, more than outweighing any exchange rate difficulties."

She added that the exchange rate is now becoming more favourable for British buyers, while "canny" purchasers are making the most of cheaper eurozone mortgages.

Buying the right property in France could reap dividends over the next few years, French property law specialist at solicitors Furley Page Sarah Bogard said this week.

She stated that the country is a buyers' market and is offering falling prices.

Britons 'selling French properties to each other'

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

An estate agency has said that many Britons are selling up their properties in France – but other UK buyers are the main customers.

The Daily Telegraph reported that the high value of the euro and the gains this offers for sellers mean it is a good time for some to cash in, while others want to move back for lifestyle reasons.

However, the bulk of customers at estate agency Winkworth are Britons, the paper noted.

Representative of the firm Roddy Aris said the British sellers are in a good position, stating: "The advantage is that they can take lower offers than their French counterparts. They can take a bigger hit."

Such a situation may mean that UK investors can negotiate a bigger discount when buying in the country from fellow Britons.

Lifestyle reasons are a major draw for people to continue wanting to live in France, a poll of expats has shown this week.

The survey by NatWest revealed the country was the most favoured European nation for quality of life.

Specialist tips French property success

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

It is still possible to be successful in French property investment, a specialist in the legal aspect of such transactions has said.

Sarah Bogard of law firm Furley Page commented that the emergence of a buyers' market and a fall in prices could help buyers.

She stated: "The right property and the right purchase structure could see you hold onto a property ripe for capital growth into your future - and that of your family."

Ms Bogard added that there are a number of measures that can be undertaken to help counteract the weakness of sterling against the euro.

One of these would be to buy from a British seller using pounds, she suggested.

Earlier this week, the Cote d'Or area in Burgundy's wine-growing region was highlighted by stone home renovation firm Arena Park France as a place with stable prices.

Representative of the firm Su Bishop said it was a part of France suited to the "discerning" investor.

Burgundy tipped for French stability

Tue, 16 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Burgundy is a region of France that is enjoying more stability than elsewhere in property prices, it has been stated.

Period home renovation firm Arena Park France said that the Cote d'Or wine growing region is remaining very solid, with its focus on continuing its wine-growing traditions rather than urban development ensuring that the supply of homes remains finite.

The company commented: "Like its wine the Cote d'Or's housing market is about quality rather than quantity and as such is offering some serious French resistance to the economic downturn."

It also noted that homes in the area are often attractive old stone buildings- which the firm specialises in restoring.

This combination of style, rural culture and a stable market may appeal to many property investors.

Buyers may also be encouraged by recent increases in the value of sterling against the euro, with the pound have risen above EUR1.17 in value last week.

Good time to buy in France, couple insist

Mon, 1 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A British couple have managed to find their ideal French property at an affordable price despite the lower value of the pound against the euro, it has been reported.

Speaking to the Financial Times, Lorraine and Norman Tuck explained that they sold their home in Devon two years ago, but then rented a property in the county while they waited to find the right place in France.

Subsequently, they managed to find the home they wanted in the west of the country for EUR100,000 (GBP88,000), gaining a 15 per cent discount on the asking price.

Explaining how the move has worked financially, Mrs Tuck stated: "The pound is better than it was, although still much worse than a couple of years ago, but the saving on the property cancels that out."

The couple will now split their time between the French property and their rental Devon home.

Sellers of French property have been coming up with new kinds of incentives instead of the traditional appeal of being close to golf courses or tennis courts, the Independent reported last week.

This has included one firm providing French cooking and archery lessons.