Is Property in the South of France Really That Expensive?

It is true that the South of France is one of the most expensive areas of France for property for sale. However, if you are prepared to compromise a little on size there are plenty of lovely little apartments and houses available for under 200,000 Euros.

At the time of writing, one incredibly good value residence on the Riviera just 20 minutes from the beach in Signes is situated in an activity park surrounded by lush pine forest. This residence was designed as a hamlet and is an excellent place from which to explore the rest of Provence - from its medieval villages to its colourful landscape and Mediterranean coastline. Prices for studios start at 75,000 Euros and offer either classic freehold or leaseback purchase with guaranteed rental income of up to 5% which is unusually high for this part of France with prices equally low.

Another highly sought after location in France is Uzes with its historical centre with remnants of its Roman past. Small boutiques, unassuming restaurants tucked away in tiny alleyways and its local markets rich in local produce fill the charming town. There is a luxury development only a few minutes walk from the historical centre at a prestigious address surrounded by landscaped gardens with its own private pool for the residents. It is not often you see such a well located new build residence and even less at such keen prices: from just 113,000 Euros you can invest in a spacious 1 bedroom apartment with a terrace and with the option for guaranteed rental of up to 4.78%.

New Build Property for Sale:

New build property has many advantages:

- Small notary fees of just 2 to 3% compared to 7 to 10% for a traditional sale

- Very low maintenance costs as repairs are negligible

- Off-plan property will usually increase in value considerably by completion date 24-18 months later

- Builders guarantee for 10 years

- You can often modify designs and choose interiors to suit your personal taste

- Often an option for guaranteed rental income (depending on development)

but perhaps older character property is more to your taste? If you are looking for a small house in a rural provencal village then with a budget of 200,000 Euros you can get on the proverbial ladder.

So even in the South of France you can find great value property for sale....

Nick Dowlatshahi is the managing director of Leapfrog Properties, a UK specialist agency in French property. Leapfrog offer an online database of up to 200,000 properties for sale in France plus a personal service from fluent French speakers to help you find, view and buy your property. Leapfrog Properties website is at http://www.leapfrog-properties.com.