Have you dreamt of retiring to France since you first visited? Perhaps you fell in love with the country on a trip and enjoyed the ambiance, lifestyle and culture? Whatever your reason, we’re here to help you make it happen.
A couple enjoying a boat trip in France
If you’ve been teetering on the edge of putting your all into planning your retirement to France, you might want to consider these 5 practical reasons why now is a good time to buy in France. Do remember: together, we can make your dreams of retiring to France happen!
Alternatively, if something is holding you back, perhaps confusion regarding foreign exchange, download our Buyer’s Guide to Currency or speak to our expert property consultants for advice at 020 7898 0549.
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Could you buy in cash?
It’s a great time to be a cash buyer
The most recent PropertyGuides buyer survey revealed a large number of those looking to retire to France are buying in cash. As it turns out, there’s never been a better time to be a cash buyer in France. Undoubtedly, there have been huge challenges in many European countries economically throughout the last year. These challenges have meant a decline in house sales in France and sellers have had to be fiercely realistic with selling prices. The forecast for this year is that interest rates will fall and thus the property market will likely stabilise. All this means that this year should be an excellent one in which to buy a property in France and if you are a cash buyer, even better.
For more information on the French property market, read our latest update.
Browse homes under €120,000 on Your Overseas Home today
Affordable homes in France
One of the greatest temptations for British people to buy in France is the number of affordable homes for sale in France. You can still buy a property in many parts of the country for under €100,000. The property buying process is safe and very protective of the buyer and with a fairly buoyant rental market, your property may end up paying for itself within a short period. If you’re looking for an active retirement, there are loads of properties available that need a bit of TLC, which could be a great project for new retirees. Alternatively, if you’d like to meet new people, would you consider running a gite in France? They offer a social lifestyle and won’t cost you an arm and a leg.
Lifestyle
Quality of life is something which the French seem to constantly enjoy. Whether it is the space (France has oodles of it), the charm of its ancient towns and villages, the culture, the climate, the food and wine, the outdoor life, the French lifestyle offers so very much to foreign buyers. The French in general still consider lunchtime to be somewhat sacred, for example, they set great store by the importance of family, the generations mix easily and cafe culture is still alive and kicking, wherever you go in the country. Whatever lifestyle you’re after in France, there’s somewhere for you. For those looking to enjoy a quiet retirement, browse homes in the Dordogne, Charente and the Hérault.
France is well connected with most of the western world
Great travel connections
How lucky are we to have such a superb country as France as our nearest neighbour? It has become easier and easier to travel to many parts of France over the years. There is a huge choice of regional airports serving both countries at very reasonable cost which has opened up most of the country for us all. Nowhere is more than an hour and a half’s plane ride. Indeed, one is spoilt for choice when it comes to areas in which to buy property. If you prefer to drive or take the train, your options are also plentiful and indeed having a weekend second home in the north of the country is easily as practical and often quicker than going, say, from London down to the west country in the UK. The proximity of France to the UK can provide peace of mind to retirees who might need to dash back to the UK for a loved one’s birthday or special occasion. Plus, it’s not too far away for your friends and family to visit you. I bet you’ll have a waiting list in no time…
Travelling after Brexit has changed how Brits travel among the Schengen zone
Sensible visa options
For those looking to retire to France, the long-stay visa is the best option. Plus, once you’ve been in France for a year, you can apply for the long-stay visa for retirees, which lasts up to 10 years if that suits your requirements.
For guidance on retiring to France and to be connected with an English-speaking visa specialist in France, click here.
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