With its image of millionaire's mansions, marinas filled with yachts and a price tag to match, French Riviera real estate is considered to be some of the most highly desirable and prized property in Europe. But there are still parts of the Riviera that are affordable, particularly in some areas that have only recently been opened up through better transportation links. Here, property is more affordable and extensive building programmes that incorporate not just mansions and villas but apartments as well are bringing the prices of French Riviera real estate into a more buyer-friendly bracket.
French property law is strictly regulated and it is essential to employ the services of an agent who is familiar with the intricacies of French bureaucracy. Before you begin the process, make sure that you have funds in place to make your purchase. This will give you a greater chance at moving quickly if necessary and assurance to the agent that you have enough to cover all your costs. It also gives both you and the agent a budget to work within. You will need to calculate additional costs including a 10% deposit, Notaire fees of between 4-8%, life assurance, land registration fees and agency fees.
Your realtor will also be able to spot desirable properties as soon as they become available. Because of the high status of celebrity clientele who own many of the more desirable properties, French Riviera real estate is not always openly advertised for sale and you will need someone who is in the centre of your chosen area to be on hand to hear of any that fulfil your criteria.
French property sales tend to move slowly so be prepared for delays. The amount of paperwork involved in real estate sales due to the tight regulations controlling developments and renovations, as well as the legal aspects such as land registry and the required life insurance can be extensive. Again, having an agent fluent in the language and in whom you can entrust your affairs to is essential. They will be able to deal with any problems that may arise quickly and possibly save the sale from falling through. However, although somewhat slower than the UK system, French property sales usually conclude relatively smoothly.
Because of the cost of real estate already built along the French Riviera and strict planning controls on the development of new properties in these areas, demand for real estate in this region often outstrips supply. However, now that some areas that were previously somewhat remote are now linked by improved transportation systems the developers have started looking at areas surrounding the less well known stretches of the Riviera, particularly around Marseilles. Property here is often bought 'off-plan' and the emphasis has been more on smaller, more affordable apartments rather than large villas. Consequently, property on the French Riviera is now far more affordable and accessible. Marseilles itself is beginning to blossom into a desirable destination and is quickly becoming the centre of attention for those looking for French Riviera property at an affordable price.
French Riviera Real Estate at Unique Living. Visit Unique Living for more info on buying a property for either a holiday or to live in the French Riviera.
