Looking to buy a property in France, but not sure where to start searching? These five locations might be just the thing!
The Alps: Le Biot
The most sought-after locations by overseas buyers in the French Alps include the Lake Geneva area and Annecy, as well as ski resorts such as Morzine and Les Gets. Many buyers are keen to buy homes that aren’t far from Geneva, so that needs for both business and pleasure are met. But where can overseas buyers look to try and find more affordable options?
Le Biot is just 10km from Morzine but offers better value than Morzine or Les Gets. A typical market town nestled above the Col du Corbier, Le Biot is an idyllic spot at a lower price than its flashier neighbours.
The French Riviera: Grasse
With a world-famous perfume industry that emerged in the 16th century, Grasse is renowned for its micro-climate, but not necessarily for its prime property market. However, with more than one million tourist visits each year and with a newly renovated centre, property in Grasse is attractive. Generally prices in Grasse are lower than many of the neighbouring villages and towns and there is a lot of choice in terms of property styles including homes with panoramic views of the entire Riviera.
Languedoc: Béziers (Occitanie)
Speak to a French person in the region and they will tell you that Beziers has had something of a reputation over the years. However, over the last few years improvements have been made in the city and the property market has picked up. Located on the Orb River, it has many famous landmarks, including the Saint-Nazaire cathedral, the bull-fighting arena, built in 1897, and Les Allees Paul-Riquet, a wide boulevard named after Pierre-Paul Riquet who designed and built the Canal du Midi.
Provence: Arles
Once the home of Van Gogh and renowned for its artists and photographers, Arles is an inspiring city with a full calendar of events throughout the year. Positioned on the banks of the Rhône river, the town is peppered with Roman monuments, including some which date back to the 1st century and are listed as UNESCO heritage sites.
Midi-Pyrénées: Cahors (Occitanie)
Cahors, renowned for its robust black wine made from the Malbec grape, in the Lot department is becoming more popular with buyers looking for properties that can generate some income.
There are many châteaux and estates in this area so if you’re looking for large properties either for secluded holiday homes or to create an income, such as a B&Bs, this could be a great place to search.
