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Property prospects Tarn by the riverside

1st February 2008 | back to article listings BACK    print this article PRINT

The possibilities that France offers for property investors, holidaymakers, cross-channel commuters and emigrants alike have all been talked about at length in recent months. Still one of the two largest markets for UK investors, Britain's nearest continental neighbour appears to still offer a wide variety of possibilities.

Much of this, of course, is based on the traditions and culture of the country, with wine lovers attracted to the southern half of the country in substantial numbers, not just from Britain but from all over the world.

Evidence of this comes from Bordeaux, where top-end property has become a hot market for a cosmopolitan clientele, AFP has reported. Chinese investors have stolen a march on Russian and Chinese incomers in snapping up chateaux with large vineyards.

AFP's report noted that the attraction of the finest wineries in the world, rather than finding pleasant places to live, was the motivation for such investment. But the appeal of such areas may indeed prompt many to line up property close to the place of origin of their favourite tipple.

But while Bordeaux is much sought after and thus likely to be costlier, the Tarn valley may offer a lower priced alternative in a scenic location.

According to French Property News, this location offers outstanding scenery, the highest road bridge in the world at Millau, renaissance architecture and microclimates with their own vineyards, the report adds.

What may be of greater interest are the prices in this area, starting with buildings that can be renovated at €11,000 (£8,300) through to a two-bedroom stone house at €122,000 or a four-bedroom house at €250,000. The report suggested these would make good holiday homes, something buy-to-let investors may consider.

While the Tarn Valley offers a different option for investors to think about, the overall market is a sound one for investors, Easier property has said. It stated that the French themselves prefer the long-term security of bricks and mortar to stocks and shares, adding that a recent survey in Le Figaro newspaper may push investors in France yet further towards the property option as the stock markets wobble.

Buy-to-let investors, Easier stated, can enjoy guaranteed returns at an "attractive" level of four to 4.5 per cent, or in excess of 5.5 per cent on leaseback deals. In the second case, the report warned, investors may need to look out for the occasional excessive promise from promoters, but said locations with good amenities, location and access would be strong prospects for high yields.

Thus while high-end properties in Bordeaux are chased by big investors all over the world, the smaller investor, it appears, can still find value for money and good return potential in many locations in France.

This is a press release by Assetz also available at http://press.assetz.co.uk/articles/3998.html. Alternatively, please see our full press release archive.

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