French preferences for British investors

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by Gill Montia

Britons purchasing property in France have their preferences and Homes Overseas magazine has published a new survey that sheds light on our national tendencies.

Most Britons head for the south of the country in search of a Mediterranean climate and the majority are seeking a rural retreat, rather than a home in a town or city.

Currently around two-thirds of French residential property sold to foreigners is bought by the British, so that regions such as south western France hold large ex-pat communities.

Creuse in Limousin is currently very popular, being accessible from Limoges airport, a Ryanair destination.

The locality is rural and boasts the lowest crime rate in France. A good sized property on a substantial plot costs in the region of €200,000.

Many properties owned by Britons in Creuse are second homes for personal use because tourist traffic is modest and local employment opportunities are limited.

Charente and the Dordogne are also serviced by Limoges airport. Charente has an amenable climate and property prices have recently seen a downward adjustment, so there are bargains to be had.

In the Dordogne property prices are continuing to rise as both local and international buyers compete for real estate. However, the region still provides sound investment opportunities.

Finally, Haute-Vienne is also popular with the British but slightly cheaper that the Dordogne, although prices are rising fast, largely because of excellent transport links.