Provence, located in the south of France, is of course known for its picturesque landscapes and charming villages, which makes it a popular destination for property buyers. Here is a quick overview of the current real estate market situation in Provence:
A strong demand: Provence is a popular destination for both French and international buyers, particularly from Paris, Northern Europe, and North America. This strong demand for property in the region has led to steady increases in property prices in recent years.
A variety of properties: The region offers a wide variety of properties to choose from, including traditional Provencal houses, modern villas, apartments, and even castles. This variety makes Provence an attractive destination for buyers with different budgets and tastes.
Few high-end properties: Provence is known for its high-end properties and luxury villas, which can be found in areas such as Saint-Tropez, Cannes, and Nice. These properties come with a high price tag, but they are in high demand, particularly among wealthy buyers.
Depends on the popular areas: Some of the most popular areas for property buyers in Provence include the Luberon, Les Alpilles, Aix-en-Provence, la Côte d’Azur, and La Camargue. These areas offer a combination of scenic beauty, charming villages and towns, and easy access to the coast.
The rental market distortion: Provence is a popular destination for tourists, which makes it a good location for buying a property for rental income. Property buyers can consider purchasing a property that can be rented out to vacationers during the peak tourist season.
First of all, it is important to make a list of what you like near your home, and then select your favorite city, to finally face the reality of the market prices.
Alexis Marcasse, real estate specialist in Provence
Market Overview
The cost of buying a home in Provence can vary greatly depending on the location, size, and condition of the property. Generally, prices are higher than the national average and can range from around €150,000 for a small village house to several million euros for a luxury villa with sea views. Properties in the most popular tourist areas, such as the towns of Aix-en-Provence, Avignon, and Saint-Tropez, tend to be the most expensive. The average price per square meter for a house in the South of France is around €3,000 to €4,000 per square meter. However, prices can vary widely depending on the location and type of property. It’s best to consult a real estate agent or do your own research to get a more accurate estimate of the cost of a specific property.
The average size of the houses
The average size of a house in Provence can vary depending on the location and type of property. In general, properties in the countryside tend to be larger than those in urban areas. The size of a house in Provence can range from a small village house with one or two bedrooms to a large villa with several bedrooms and multiple living spaces. On average, a typical house in Provence would be around 120 – 150 square meters or 1,292 – 1,614 square feet, but the size can be larger or smaller depending on the location, the type of property, and the budget. It’s important to note that in Provence, many houses are old and often have been renovated, so the size can be deceiving, as many of them are built on multiple levels, with terraces and outdoor spaces.
A swimming pool: good or bad idea?
Having a swimming pool in Provence can be a desirable feature, as the region has a warm Mediterranean climate and many people enjoy swimming and relaxing by the pool during the summer months. A pool can also add value to a property and make it more attractive to renters.
However, having a pool also comes with responsibilities, such as maintenance and safety concerns, which need to be taken into consideration. If you are planning to rent out your property, it’s important to make sure that the pool is properly maintained and that safety measures are in place, such as fencing and pool covers. Additionally, having a pool will add to the running cost and you should factor this into your budget.
It’s also worth noting that not all properties are suitable for a pool, so you may need to consider factors such as the size and layout of your land, as well as any local regulations and zoning laws that may apply.
Ultimately, whether or not it’s better to have a swimming pool in Provence depends on your personal preferences and circumstances. If you are planning to use the property yourself and you enjoy swimming, then having a pool can be a great addition. If you are planning to rent out the property, it is important to consider the added responsibilities, and expenses, and appeal to renters.
Buying to generate income?
it is also possible to buy a beautiful property in Provence and rent it out for business purposes. Many people purchase properties in Provence as vacation rentals or as holiday homes that can be used for personal use and also rented out to generate income.
However, it is important to keep in mind that there are regulations and laws that must be followed when renting out a property for business purposes. Depending on the local regulations and zoning laws, you may need to obtain a license or permit to operate a vacation rental or holiday home. Additionally, you will need to comply with various regulations regarding taxes, insurance, and safety.
It is also important to consider the costs and responsibilities associated with owning a rental property, such as property management, maintenance, and marketing. It may be a good idea to consult with a real estate agent or property management company to help you navigate the regulations and requirements, as well as assist you in managing the property.
A concierge service to help you.
A “Conciergerie” is a service that can take care of various tasks related to property management, such as maintaining and cleaning the property, managing rentals, and handling communication with guests. It can also provide other services such as arranging for maintenance or repairs, arranging for transportation, and making reservations. If you are looking for a Conciergerie to take care of your property in Provence, it is possible that there are local companies that provide such services. It is best to research and compare different companies to find one that fits your needs and budget.
What can we conclude?
Overall, the real estate market in Provence is strong, with high demand and a wide variety of properties to choose from. However, it’s important to note that prices can be high, particularly for high-end properties, and buyers should be prepared to pay a premium for a property in a desirable location. As in any real estate market, it’s important to conduct thorough research, consult with a local realtor, and have a realistic budget in mind before making a purchase. It’s also important to keep in mind that the standard volumes of the living space may also change from those of your main residence and you may have to think about factors such as mobility, the distance to travel after parking your vehicle, or the number of stairs to climb to reach your future cozy nest in Provence. Have a good search!