5 reasons to buy a French Leaseback Property

by Charlotte Ashton France

 

It would seem that post-recession, as the market regains its confidence, buyers are going back to basics and selecting traditional, safe and secure global destinations in which to purchase second properties.
 
France, popular back in the 1960s at the dawn of the second home era, in particular is receiving renewed investor interest with the leaseback system cited as a key factor in the decision making process.
 
So what makes a French Leaseback property such a solid investment?
 
1. Low deposit required
 
With the current instability of the euro and poor performance of the pound, investors are keen to reduce their exposure to currency fluctuations by purchasing a property with a low deposit. Off-plan leaseback properties can be purchased with only a 5% deposit and a wide range of mortgage products are available up to 100% finance.
 
2. Guaranteed rental income
 
A key feature of the leaseback scheme is the ability for the owner to generate income by purchasing the freehold property outright and then leasing it back to a management company who specialises in the tourist management, maintenance and rental of these properties for a minimum 9-year period (renewable). In return owners receive a guaranteed index-linked annual return, irrespective of occupancy of the property.
 
 
3. Personal usage
 
Leaseback property owners can enjoy the best of both worlds – guaranteed rental income and personal usage. Investors have the option to choose a leaseback formula that includes weeks of stays at their property each year for a reduced rental guarantee. These weeks may also be used in other equivalent apartments in any of the other properties managed by the management company. 
 
 
4. VAT rebate
 
The rebate of French VAT, currently at 19.6%, on a new build property price is a real incentive for buyers. This government backed tax break enables purchases to be effectively made at below market value and if held for 20 years the VAT is not required to be paid back.
 
5. 40 year track record
 
In a time when the security of an investment is paramount, buyers can take comfort in the 40 year track record of sale and leaseback devised by the French Government. Designed as a low-risk long term investment, the method operates within a set framework and is a well established buying practice.       
 
Steven Worboys, MD of French property experts Experience International, comments,
 
“We have seen an increase in demand for French leaseback properties especially those in key tourist destinations such as the Alps. Our clients want to ensure that their investments are not only secure but that their properties are delivering income as well as personal usage. Leaseback properties perfectly meet these requirements.”
 
A wide selection of leaseback properties are available to purchase in sought after locations such as Sainte Foy, Avoriaz, Megeve, Marseille and Biarritz through Experience International. Contact one of the French leaseback property experts on +44 (0) 207 321 5858 or visit www.experience-international.com for more information or to view the opportunities currently available.

One to Watch in 2010 – Hidden Gem of the French Alps Revealed

by Charlotte Ashton France

With France unequivocally topping the charts in a recent survey of the top 10 winter ski resort destinations by budget airline easyJet, it seems that the British love affair with the French Alps remains as strong as ever.

As expected the top ranking resorts included Chamonix, Avoriaz, Meribel and Les Arcs but according to the French ski property experts at Experience International, Sainte-Foy-en-Tarentaise, the hidden gem of the French Alps, is one to watch in 2010.
Centrally located in the Tarentaise Valley, home to notable resorts including Val d’Isere, Tignes, Les Arcs, La Plagne and La Rosiere, Sainte-Foy-en-Tarentaise has long been the preserve of experienced guides bringing their clients over from Val d’Isere just 10 minutes away to enjoy the famous powder and off-piste skiing available. As Steven Worboys, MD of Experience International, comments:
“It is the ideal resort for experienced skiers and beginners alike. The traditional Savoyard architecture, stunning scenery and relaxed family atmosphere attract real mountain lovers. The popularity of Sainte Foy is only going to increase in 2010.”
This hidden gem is proving not only a popular winter holiday destination but also the ideal second property location due to its ease of access from the UK (under 2 hours drive from Geneva which operates numerous direct budget flights to the UK), year round appeal and property prices up to half that of surrounding areas.
With current concerns over the strength of the British Pound buyers are being cautious about committing to euro property purchases but as Steven Worboys explains, this should not be a concern as long as you select the right development:
“In order to minimise exposure to the current weakness of the Pound buyers should look for leaseback properties which require low deposits. The La Chapelle ski-in ski-out apartments for example require only a 5% deposit to secure with 95% finance available.”
Well located leaseback properties in particular are attractive options as investors are able to secure guaranteed rental returns for 18 years plus, index-linked, as is the case with La Chapelle as well as enjoying flexible personal usage. Investment in these 4* luxury apartments is from as little as €12,000 including furniture, parking and purchase costs.
For those wishing to discover the hidden gem of Sainte Foy please contact Experience International on + 44 (0) 207 321 5858 or visit http://www.french-ski-property.co.uk/ to watch the video.

Look through the key hole to the wonders of Nice

by Charlotte Ashton France

With the recent nationwide release of Tim Burton’s Alice in Wonderland on the 5th March all eyes have been on Johnny Depp. Details of where a celebrity of such stature eats, works, and lives are all of great fascination to the general public especially when they hit our screens in a multi-million dollar movie. It comes as no surprise that as Depp bursts into the limelight again we are all intrigued by his choice to spend a lot of his time in between jobs in his family home just across the channel in Nice, a desirable property hotspot in the South of France. Living with his wife and two children and sharing the famous region with stars such as Elton John and world wide events such as The Cannes Film Festival it is great to know that a location popular with many Brits for over 100 years is also favoured by the A List celebrities.

Nice is easily accessible from the UK, although if one has a private jet this would never be a problem, and the climate, ambience and leisure activities offered in the area ensures a real ‘adventure in wonderland’ whenever you choose to visit. For those looking to invest in prime real estate, apartments are available on the Promenade des Anglais from as little as €178,000 for one bedroom, €228,00 for a two bed and stretching all the way up to €1,580,000 for a top of the range luxury 3 bedroom suite. All apartments on ‘The Prom’ have one thing in common and that is the fabulous vista across the med.
For more information on buying or letting an apartment in Nice contact please contact Agence 107 Promenade on 00 33 4 93 44 83 83, email contact@107promenade.com or visit www.107promenade.com. 

150 Reasons to Buy In Nice

by Charlotte Ashton France

One might wonder how the Patron Saint of Nice was and is still today Saint Rita – not a terribly Francophile name by any stretch of the imagination. Well Saint Rita was in fact Italian and became the patron Saint of Nice and of Hopeless Causes in 1543.

Known at that time as the Niçois, the mighty Italians used the hapless Rita – an unknown and common laundress – to frighten off the advancing Turks.   Rita, as the story goes, was of ample proportions and really not a great beauty. The macho Italians made her climb a ladder above the parapet and display her wares to the shocked Turks who graciously turned tail and went home.
Nice remained Italian until 1860 when the Italian King sold Nice to Napoleon III in exchange for financial and military help. The Niçois were allowed to vote so there would be no repercussions about being ‘sold down the river’.  The voting booths were manned by units of the French army and this may well have affected the outcome which saw 99% of the population voting in favour.
It was around about this time that the English ‘discovered’ Nice for themselves and we have been madly passionate about this slice of France ever since. The wealthy English arrived in their droves, building homes, hotels and churches. It was THE place to be seen and the French very kindly extended the railway on from Marseille to reach Nice ensuring even more well to do Brits could enjoy the Riviera and take a stroll down the Promenade des Anglais.
So this year Nice is celebrating its 150 years of ‘Frenchness’ by putting on 150 special events over the summer. Kirkor Ajderhanyan is the MD of Agence 107 Promenade and he told us, “The major has announced the celebrations. It is to be a festival of community spirit and they are hoping to get all the patrons of Nice to roll up their sleeves, spruce up their districts and meet the neighbours. There will be some wonderful cultural and sporting events in the summer and we are expecting tourists from all over the world to come and attend.”
Kirkor goes onto say, “Due to the high volumes of people descending on Nice we are expecting an upturn in both property sales and rentals – particularly on the Promenade where it is usual for most of the excitement to take place. Many of our luxury apartments have the most tremendous views of the Promenade des Anglais and they are the envy of the city on high days and holidays like these”.
Apartments are available on the Promenade from as little as €178,000 for one bedroom , €228,00 for a two bed and stretching all the way up to €1,580,000 for a top of the range luxury 3 bedroom suite. All apartments on the promenade have one thing in common and that is the fabulous vista across the med.
For more information on buying or letting an apartment in Nice contact please contact Agence 107 Promenade on 00 33 4 93 44 83 83, email contact@107promenade.com or visit www.107promenade.com.
— ENDS —
On the market:
Promenade des Anglais, Nice France
A truly spectacular apartment situated on the sea front of Nice and offering you a magnificent living space of 81m². This apartment has been very tastefully decorated, has a beautiful kitchen and bathroom, 3 bedrooms and a living room opening out onto a spacious terrace.

The asking price is €685,000. For more information please contact Agence 107 Promenade on 00 33 4 93 44 83 83, email contact@107promenade.com or visit www.107promenade.com.

Paris to Nice Cycle Race – Front Row Seats at the Race to the Sun

by Charlotte Ashton France

March 7th sees the start of the gruelling Paris to Nice road bike race. This year 22 teams have signed up for the 1230 kilometre race which takes 7 days and covers some extremely tough stretches of road including a very nasty climb up the Massif Central Mountain ranges. But it is the stages around Nice that sees that truly sorts the boys from the men – this is a section where the average human would be concerned whether their 3 year old car is going to make it to the top – let alone leg power.

 
The Nice stage totals 119 kilometres and the longest climb takes place over 5 kilometres up to Col de la Porte at 1068 metres.  At times this road reaches a 7.2% gradient – classified as category 1 in biking terminology.  The riders then drop mercifully back down 90 m before putting them selves through the agony of climbing to La Turbie, 485 m and then Eze at 510 m.
The race climaxes with a maddening sprint down treacherous hair pin roads, possibly more terrifying than going up, to the flat and picturesque Promenade des Anglais on Nice´s sea front where only the most courageous of the descent have a hope of expending their very last vestiges of energy in a dash for the line and victory.
This cycle race is probably the most historical event in the professional racing calendar. Kirkor Ajderhanyan who runs Agence 107 Promenade says, “This event brings the crowds out in droves onto the Promenade. Many of our properties that are available for sale are overlooking the finish line and get the most wonderful views of the last stretch of this infamous race.” He goes on to say, “I know of several owners who make this event an excuse to host wonderful parties and show off their beautiful apartments.”
For more information on buying a property on the Promenade des Anglais please contact Agence 107 Promenade on 00 33 4 93 44 83 83, email contact@107promenade.com or visit www.107promenade.com.
— Ends —
On the market:
A beautifully presented modern 2nd floor 2 bedroom apartment with terrace and loggia offering panoramic sea views. The property consists of 105 sqm of living space with living room, equipped kitchen, 2 bedrooms and bathroom. Asking price € 680.000. For more information please contact Agence 107 Promenade on 00 33 4 93 44 83 83, email contact@107promenade.com or visit www.107promenade.com.

Get Rock Star Ready this Valentine’s Day

by Charlotte Ashton France

So who is fortunate enough to own a private island? Well rumours are rife but unless you are Richard Branson and want to rent out your island paradise then you are likely to try and keep it a secret.   Pirate of the Caribbean, Johnny Depp is said to own an island in the Bahamas; Steven Spielberg reportedly took a shine to the Portuguese island of Madeira and Mel Gibson chose Fiji as his location of secret seclusion.

Where would you choose? And what could you afford? Well perhaps not the whole island but you can have your very own slice of the Cacao Pearl – a pristine and private heart shaped tropical island laying in warm waters and home to coconut palms, papaya trees, rainforest, turtles and rare birds. With 3 km of dramatic coastline and coral reefs, located within the world-renowned Palawan archipelago, Cacao Pearl boasts four marine reserves and two UNESCO World Heritage sites. You and your loved one can chose from eight different beaches or disappear into a hidden cove for a romantic picnic, sunbathing and a swim in the tropical waters. 
Cacao Pearl is one of 1,780 islands that make up Palawan, an island province in south west Philippines and is one of the most romantic spots in the world. Imagine a white glove service, beyond-eco boutique resort community, sensitively developed to retain its natural, tropical charm whilst also offering the upmost in comfort, relaxation, and adventure. The chic residences have been designed exclusively for Cacao Resorts by former film art director Antonio Calvo (Love Actually, Pride & Prejudice) and built to exceed LEED standards for ecologically responsible construction. It is a carbon neutral resort and utilizes renewable energy sources; uniquely all net profits from the resort are invested in philanthropic projects through a Foundation which has been specifically set up to aid local community projects.
Where else in the world could you walk out of your home and pick mangoes and orchids for your breakfast tray. Then perhaps a dip in the hand crafted sunken deck tub followed by a relaxing hour or two in the Cliff Edge Spa where they will create bespoke oils and masks to suit your taste. And perhaps now a trip to the Chocolatier might seem in order – set in a tropical fruit orchard.

So don’t leave it to the likes of Mel Gibson and Johnny Depp – live your own celebrity dream on this ‘rock star ready’ island of love. The island residences are delivered in 1 or 2 bedroom configurations each with its own private nature-scaped garden estate of 800-1500 sqm. Bespoke residences are available to anyone with specific ideas or room plans. Prices from US$300,000 fully furnished, ready-to-rent. For more information contact Experience International on 0207 321 5858, visit http://www.cacao-pearl-island.co.uk/ or follow us at http://twitter.com/experience_int.

Everybody loves a Nice carnival

by Charlotte Ashton France

Many a town and city is rightfully proud of its annual carnival – the celebration of all things local attracting residents as well as visitors from further afield. However, not many people understand the origins of this well known event and even less so its historic association with some of the most glamorous and sunny holiday destinations in the world. One of those destinations is the southern French city of Nice on the Cote d’Azur.

Taking place during two weeks in February leading up to Mardi Gras, the city explodes into lively activity and colourful celebrations. The carnival processions, prestige soirées, rock and techno concerts, entertainment and fireworks attract approximately 1.2 million people each year to the Mediterranean city. It is the biggest winter festival along the French Rivera.
The carnival is also a very flowery celebration, characterized by the Battle of the Flowers (Batailles de Fleurs). Twenty huge floats parade up and down past the public along the famous Promenade des Anglais that overlooks the sea. Each float has a team of men and young women who throw 80-100,000 flowers out to the watching locals and tourists, before the celebration comes to a crescendo in the Place Masséna in the plush city centre. 90% of the Carnival de Nice flowers are grown locally and include gladioli, tokyos, mimosa, gerberas, roses, carnations and daisies. By night the flower laden floats give way to spectacular illuminations and on the last night an incredible fireworks display.
The history of the carnival is intertwined with the history of Nice itself. The word carnival originally means ‘carne levare’ or ‘away with the meat’ and is based on the tradition of fasting or living on a restrictive diet during Lent. The practice of large Lenten celebrations and street parties with spectators wearing huge masks dates back several centuries, with the earliest records in Nice dating back to 1294.
Before fasting for forty days according to the Catholic tradition of Lent, the inhabitants of the city enjoyed rich, plentiful cuisine typical of this bountiful region of France. The people used carnival as an excuse to eat, drink and make merry before undergoing an austere 40 days deprived of all carnal pleasures. Despite this heritage however, the practice was in danger of dying out around 200 years ago when Napoleon banned such events in 1797. The modern Nice carnival dates back to 1873.
The Nice Carnival has a history of influence across the world. It can be credited with the birth of the giant model, which has cropped up in other carnivals and festivals such as in the burning man festival held in Arizona. Such huge figures, which caused consternation when they were first introduced, have been a regular feature at the Nice Carnival for over one hundred years.
‘The Blue Planet’ is the green theme for this year’s celebration (which starts on the 12th February), with more than a million people expected to participate including many of France’s most avant garde artists and designers. The warm Mediterranean climate allows the early timing of the event and ensures that visitors to the city are spread more evenly throughout the year. This means February, March and April become a popular time to visit as just before and after the carnival the city isn’t so crowded.
Kirkor Ajderhanyan, Owner of Agence 107 Promenade says, “The Nice Carnival really is the most wonderful celebration. Not only is it a hugely impressive and spectacular event, it also serves to remind visitors of the numerous attractions associated with Nice and the Cote d’Azur, such as its bustling markets, charming narrow lanes, art, museums, food, beaches, harbours, baroque churches and stylish buildings. All these things can be found within walking distance of the Place Masséna, a beautiful and palatial part of the centre of Nice where the crescendo of the carnival happens right in front of your very eyes. And where better to enjoy the carnival than from your very own apartment? A beautiful and modern 2 bedroom apartment overlooking the Place Masséna with a 35sqm terrace costs €560,000, an excellent price for such an historic location.”
Mr Ajderhanyan continues, “If sea views beyond the festivities are what you’d prefer then the Promenade des Anglais is the place to live; apartments and penthouses here are hugely desirable and attract the attention of buyers across the world. Events such as the Nice Carnival further add to the appeal of living and owning property in Nice, especially along the famous ‘Prom’. Currently on the market is a modernised and affordable 1 bedroom apartment for €365,000; this apartment makes an excellent investment purchase, accommodation demand increases dramatically around the carnival so you stand to earn an income from your seafront property too. Or for bigger budgets €680,000 will get you a spacious 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment with priceless panoramic Mediterranean views.”
For more information please contact Agence 107 Promenade on 00 33 4 93 44 83 83, email contact@107promenade.com or visit www.107promenade.com.

Nice and easy! Improved accessibility increases popularity of south of France…

by Georgina France

 

Having served over 100 million customers since its launch on 14th November 1994, Eurostar – the high-speed train link between the UK and France and Belgium – recently celebrated its 15th birthday. Announcing that in the past 15 years they have totted up mileage equivalent to 338 journeys to the moon the service has opened up Europe to a much wider audience, allowing travellers greater choice and making their trips to the continent easy and hassle-free.
 
The Eurostar service and its attributing ease of accessibility is a key reason why France has become renowned as a top global tourist destination, with the World Tourism Organisation announcing that it was the most popular tourist destination in the world in 2008 with 79.8 million visitors, as well as being a very popular destination for second home owners.
 
With its cultural treasures, wealth of gastronomic treats and air of sophistication, Paris is not only the country’s capital but also France’s top tourist destination, with the Eurostar service connecting directly to the city from three destinations in the UK. Succeeded only by Paris, however, the city of Nice on the Côte d’Azur or French Riviera has been ranked as the second most popular destination for tourists in France, according to the CRT Riviera Côte d´Azur – Observatoire du Tourisme.
 
Especially ever-popular with British holidaymakers, and those buying property outside of the UK, the city of Nice in the south of France is famous for its long sandy beaches and glamorous sea-fronts and has certainly benefited from increased accessibility in recent years.
 
Kirkor Ajderhanyan, MD and Owner of Agence 107 Promenade, agrees,
 
“Since the launch of the Eurostar service 15 years ago as well as the improved road network and flight routes in recent times, Nice – and the Côte d´Azur in general – has benefited greatly by a growth in tourism. Always having been popular due to its stunning scenery and sophisticated Promenade, improved accessibility certainly makes for more people visiting the region and this is good news for those investing in property in Nice as they are able to rent out to the tourist market as well as use the property personally.”
 
Connecting services from the Eurostar offer customers the chance to travel from the UK to the south of France by train in approximately 8-9 hours. Departing from St Pancras International in London, Ebbsfleet International or Ashford International in Kent, travellers take the Eurostar to either Paris or Lille and then a connecting TGV train to the beautiful Nice-Ville Station. Travelling by train allows a stress-free journey that is most suitable for those looking to enjoy the French scenery but still arrive at their destination on the Côte d´Azur the same day, as well as those conscious of their carbon footprint as the Eurostar is a carbon-neutral way to travel, generating just one tenth of the CO² of an equivalent flight. A single fare from St Pancras International to Nice, costs from £58 one-way.
 
Alternatively, the more traditional means of travel to Nice would be by plane – jetting off from destinations across the UK and arriving at Nice-Côte d’Azur Airport, the second largest airport in France with October 2009 seeing 854,607 passengers pass through. With a range of carriers flying to Nice, there is a wide choice of charter and scheduled flights available. Air France, for example, is one scheduled carrier that operates a service to Nice from 225 world cities, and having seen a successful summer 2009 with an increase of 14% in passenger numbers, this a suitable option for those based outside of south-east England as well as those interested in a short journey-time to the south of France, such as families with children.
 
When flying, however, the choice does not have to be limited to scheduled flights, for those looking for greater flexibility and a more luxurious travel option, private jets also offer services to Nice. This option is clearly for those with deeper pockets but as Jon Ingi Jonsson, Managing Director of private jet company Icejet comments,
 
“Aircraft charter is not just for the super rich… Our Dornier 328 aircraft can carry a large group in comfort with a generous 750kg cargo hold with enough space for all their luggage, ski gear or golf clubs. At a more cost effective price than a Gulfstream 4 or 5, Falcon or Challenger 600 Series it is ideal for the short-haul leisure market.”
 
If, however, you see your holiday starting the moment you leave home, driving to the French Riviera may be the option for you. Travelling to the south of France by road allows time to enjoy the French scenery and make the most of the travelling time as well as the time spent at your destination. There are many classic routes through France that can be enjoyed by car, taking travellers through the rolling hills of Provence’s wine-country and quaint French villages, with views of breathtaking mountains and vineyards. Nice is an easy destination to reach as it is connected by a motorway route that has five entrances to various parts of the city and the surrounding area: Promenade de Anglais, Saint-Augustin, Saint-Isidore, Nice-Nord and Nice-Est.
 
With so many easy ways to reach the south of France and to take advantage of its accessibility and popularity, there are also various choices when investing in property in and around Nice. In central Nice, in the heart of the city Place Masséna, is a beautiful third floor two bedroom apartment, with entrance, American kitchen, living room, bathroom and terrace of 35 sqm. In excellent condition, the apartment is on the market at € 560,000.
 
Alternatively, if the famous Promenade des Anglais is more your scene, a seventh floor apartment on the seafront might well be the ideal choice. With living room, two bedrooms, kitchen, bathroom, separate WC and balcony with sea views, the apartment is close to the town and is for sale at €228,000.
 
If, however, you would rather be situated outside of the hustle and bustle of the city itself, a villa next to the famous village of Saint Paul is available, with a private pool and flower garden as well as three bedrooms, three bathrooms, living room with fireplace, dining room and an independent studio. With 175 m² of living space on a plot of 1550m², the villa is in good condition and on the market for €950,000.
 
For further information on any of the properties, and other options available, contact Agence 107 Promenade on 00 33 4 93 44 83 83 or visit www.107promenade.com.

More than A Year in Provence?

by Charlotte Ashton France

The bestselling novel ‘A Year in Provence’, made famous a few years later in the BBC drama, celebrates its twentieth anniversary this year. Many remember the late John Thaw as author Peter Mayle, documenting his memories and experiences of moving to south east France. However John Thaw was not to the only one to captivate British audiences; the sunny, beautiful and appealing lifestyle which inspired the novel caused many to fall in love with the region of Provence itself turning it into one of the most sought after second home destinations in the world.

One of the most powerful draws for outsiders is the region’s scenery, which comprises sandy beaches on the coast, large picturesque valleys and fields carpeted with flowers and olive trees. This has always attracted artists of one type or another, be they novelists or painters like Van Gogh, Renoir, Monet and Picasso who loved to visit and exploit what they could see for the sake of art. The countryside around Avignon for example, in the Vaucluse region, is regarded as being some of the most beautiful in France.
In addition to the year round sunny climate and sun-ripened locally produced food, vegetables and herbs, the region is noted for its wines which have been fermented for nearly three thousand years and have recently seen a surge in popularity. Also lauded is the cuisine of Provence, which results from the warm, dry Mediterranean climate and the abundance seafood from the coast.
Avignon itself sports the ancient and the modern, with three miles of fortified walls and the highly historic Palais des Papes on the one hand, and the rather more up to date opera house and university on the other. Streets and squares are often full of buskers, and the Avignon festival in July, which includes theatre, mime and cabaret, has now become a major European event. Once the Papal residence, Avignon is now a cheerful town of cafés, art galleries and fashionable shops whilst France´s oldest city, nearby Marseille, is a famously bustling port with a lively local atmosphere.
Provence has a rich history. Although Marseilles and Nice were founded in 600 BC by the Greeks, the Romans left their mark on the area in many ways, even down to the name, derived from the word ‘province’. The architecture, culture and scenery of Nimes, Arles, the magnificent theatre at Orange and the Pont du Gard are amongst the finest examples of Roman buildings in Europe. Small, hilltop villages and hamlets with cobbled streets are dotted all over the region and feature Medieval, Gallic, Roman and even some prehistoric structures, such as the village of Malaucène situated near Avignon.
Such peaceful and relaxing climes have always attracted Britons looking for a better life away from some of the harsh realities of the British rough and tumble. Surveys also indicate that Britain and France are at the opposite ends of the lifestyle league table. An extensive survey undertaken earlier this year by price comparison website uSwitch.com found that although UK income was highest in Europe, the highest performing country in their ‘Quality of Life Index’ was France. UK workers were found to work longer, die earlier and pay more for goods, services and everyday consumer items than the French. It’s no surprise that these features make France the most visited country in the world attracting some 79.3 million tourists in 2008 alone and a top destination for expats.
Steven Worboys, MD of international property specialist Experience International, comments:
“Increasingly Britons are looking towards the kind of bright and beautifully relaxing parts of France that Peter Mayle wrote so famously about twenty years ago and particularly so now that only €2000 is needed to invest in new property in the area. Our charming development which allows one to take all the pleasures of Provence benefits from an exceptional situation in the heart of the magnificent French countryside, just a few steps away from the historic centre of Malaucène.”
 
 
Les Mazets du Ventoux – €197,688 + VAT (refunded)
The development comprises 18 high quality 1 and 2 bedroom apartments ranging in sizes, due to complete in June 2011. Les Mazets du Ventoux properties will offer tiling or wooden parquet floors, fully equipped kitchens, upper class bathrooms, flat screen TV and fully furnished. In addition on-site facilities will include: Outdoor heated swimming pool, outdoor Jacuzzi, sauna, Turkish bath, massage parlour and a park. The Management service will also provide a personalised reception for the owners, cleaning and beds made up on arrival and a dedicated ownership service.
For further information contact Experience International on 0207 321 5858 or visit www.france-properties.co.uk.

Harvest the rewards of an investment in a French vineyard…

by Charlotte Ashton France

 

Ever dreamed of rolling hills punctuated by vines laden with rich fruit, ripe for picking, the bright sun warming your land, in advance of a plentiful harvest? With the pressures of modern life and the stress of the daily commute taking its toll on a nation struggling to pull itself out of what has become known as the worst recession faced in 100 years (according to MP Ed Balls), many British people are looking to the French countryside to make their dream of owning a vineyard a reality.
 
There are many reasons why France is the obvious and increasingly desirable choice for those looking to make this Utopian dream come true. Quite apart from the association that makes it synonymous with wine-making that dates back thousands of years, France has a great deal to offer those looking to make a new life abroad. Known to boast a more relaxed pace of life than the UK, this has recently been confirmed in a study by uSwitch.com which compared the UK with nine other European countries. The Quality of Life Index revealed that the quality of life in the UK is the poorest in Europe, whereas that of France was the best quality. Various factors contributed to this positive result for France, with the country spending the greatest amount on healthcare and having one of the lowest retirement ages of all the countries surveyed. Not only this but the French can expect to live around two years longer than their fellow Brits and France ranks behind only Italy and Spain in terms of hours of sunshine.
 
Ann Robinson, Director of Consumer Policy at uSwitch.com explains that although the UK has the highest wealth, this does not necessarily determine quality of life:
 
“There is more to good living than money and this report shows why so many Brits are giving up on the UK and heading to France and Spain… For too long the focus in the UK has been on standard of living rather than quality of life. As a result we have lost all sense of balance between wealth and well-being.” 
 
It is clear, therefore why such numbers of Brits visit France on an annual basis (2007 saw France attract 81.9 million tourists, according to the French Government Tourist Office, an increase of 3.8% on the previous year) and it is easy to see why so many decide to make the move to France a permanent one. When deciding to start a business in France, wine-making and owning a vineyard is an obvious and aspirational choice, for not only is the French culture heavily entwined with wine – France produces 550 million cases a year, according to winedefinitions.com – but there is also a great British love affair with wine (Alain Marty, president of the Wine & Business Club and wine commentator recently having credited the British as ‘good at choosing wines carefully, they really know their stuff’).
 
Owning a French vineyard is a dream for many British, and in reality more and more are realising this ambition as changes in government policy have led to greater numbers of vineyards becoming available for purchase. With property prices in France stable and the country having now officially emerged from recession, buying a vineyard can offer an interesting opportunity to overseas buyers and those looking to relocate.
 
Kirkor Ajderhanyan, Managing Director and Owner of Agence 107 Promenade, a local agency that sell exclusive property between Cannes and Monaco, recognises the appeal for British buyers,
 
“Owning and running a vineyard is undoubtedly hard work, but the sense of achievement – as well as potential financial returns – that producing and selling your own wine can give you is second to none. Not only this, but to live in a luxurious property, surrounded by beautiful French countryside extending as far as the eye can see, is a dream-come-true for many. Purchasing a French vineyard is not simply a property and land purchase, it truly is an investment in a way of life.”
 
From Burgundy to Bordeaux, there are multiple French regions that are tantamount with wine production, but when looking to relocate to France and build a new life as well as a wine business, it is important to consider the area as a whole and whether you could envisage daily life there. One region that has wide appeal is Provence, where not only some of the country’s most famous wines are made, but which also has a great deal to offer those looking at relocating. This region in south-eastern France is famed for its unique micro-climate and stunning sweeping countryside, as well as picturesque towns and villages, scattered throughout the hills. Saint Rémy de Provence is one such village, encircled by the remains of 14th century fortifications, and one of the oldest in France. The location where Van Gogh painted ‘Starry Night’ and Nostradamus was born, Saint Rémy is 20km south of Avignon and 90km from Marseille.
 
Close by, a 25 hectare vineyard, currently producing 75,000 bottles of wine a year can be purchased, near to Château Neuf du-Pape and very well-known for its white, rosé and red wines. The vineyard’s wine is sold throughout the world and it is actively participating in tasting competitions in which it has been very successful. With a main property built in the 18th century in Provençal style, as well as a swimming pool, the vineyard consists of several buildings, including a wine warehouse and wine cellar, sanitary facilities and agricultural warehouse.
 
On the market for €7,300,000, for further information contact Agence 107 Promenade on 00 33 4 93 44 83 83, email contact@107promenade.com or visit www.107promenade.com.