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The French Riviera is a must for anyone looking to expand their property portfolio or boost their income. This area, a playground for the rich and famous and has various exquisite properties for rent, is often considered a steal. The South of France is a region that is full of wealthy and prominent individuals. It is also full of beautiful towns and villages ideal for an affluent population. Of course, known for its warm weather and beautiful beaches, the Cote d’Azur has plenty of luxury properties for rent that are ideal for investors. Due to the increasing number of Europeans looking to relocate to the area, the demand for rental properties in the French Riviera is constantly high. An apartment in Cannes can quickly generate 30-50,000 euros a year. Net. And if you are in a prime location, near the palace, this could be up to 100,000 euros.

But what are the best locations to boost your income? Cannes and the Gulf of Saint Tropez are always in high demand. But the whole region is marvellous and blessed with sunshine, great nature and well-dressed people. Nice is the capital of the Cote d’Azur and an actual big city. Well, big, for the region to say. Nice has plenty of shops, museums and restaurants. It also has a beautiful promenade known as the Promenade des Anglaise. Despite being one of the busiest cities in the region, the city of Nice is still charming. Its Old Town, with Italian street names on the walls,  is characterized by narrow streets and little restaurants, while its glamorous surroundings are filled with casinos, hotels, and luxury yachts. This city also has plenty of other attractions to keep its residents entertained.

Why the Cote d’Azur is a must for investors in Europe

Tourists overlook Beaulieu-sur Mer; this seaside village is between Monaco and the city of Nice. If you’re looking for a prime location for your luxury real estate in the Cote d’Azur, you’ll be able to find a variety of villas in Beaulieu-sur-Mer. This area is a beautiful seaside village that is ideal for both tourists and locals. It is also a quiet and upscale location, perfect for those looking to enjoy the high life. This area is known for its beautiful beaches and is a popular destination for tourists and European royalty. It has a variety of waterfront villas and is also an excellent location for people looking for a place to invest. Despite the high prices that it is currently experiencing, this area is a great place to buy.

Villefranche-sur-Mer is a stunning location that is full of luxury and sophistication. It is also an ideal place for those looking to enjoy the quality French Riviera lifestyle. Situated on a beautiful bay, the town of Villefranche-sur-Mer is known for its charming waterfront architecture. It features a historic centre and is bordered by several medieval buildings. This area is also an excellent location for people looking for various seafood restaurants. The town of Villefranche-sur-Mer is full of glamour and sophistication. Its historic centre, grand townhouses, and private pools make it an ideal location for people looking to enjoy the high life.

Investment in the French Riviera

The French Riviera has become a popular destination for ex-pats and people who want to retire in the South of France. Tourists due to its beautiful beaches and various luxury properties for rent. Unsurprisingly, this area’s demand for luxury real estate is high. If you plan on investing in this sector, you’ll have no problem finding the ideal tenants.

If you’re planning on becoming an expatriate or are simply looking for a home away from home, then you’ll find all you need in Menton on the Cote d’Azur. This town is known for its exquisite restaurants and beautiful streets. It is also an ideal location for those who are looking for a tranquil getaway. It is another Italian part of France, with Italian staff running the shops and beach restaurants. Known as the pearl of France, Menton is situated near the Italian border and enjoys a temperate climate that makes it an ideal year-round destination. Its pretty streets are adorned with lemon and orange trees, and it has plenty of parks and gardens.

Situated high on a hill, the old town of Menton is characterized by its beautiful old buildings and narrow streets. It is also a perfect location for those searching for a tranquil getaway or an opportunity to experience the height of sophistication and luxury. One of the most popular restaurants in the area is Mirazur, which offers a breathtaking view of the beach and bay.

Stable region for your real estate investment

If you’re planning on purchasing luxury real estate on the French Riviera, you’ll have no problem finding your ideal property. Whether you decide to sell or rent, you’ll be able to enjoy a tidy profit regardless of when that happens. The Cote d’Azur is a must for European investors, and this region will make you feel incredibly spoilt for choice. Investing in the Cote d’Azur is a stable investment as pricing will never go exceptionally up or down, like in other countries. The French don’t have time for this. When the economy goes down, the prices freeze, and the homeowner will open a bottle of wine, toasting for a better time.

by Ab Kuijer/8 February 2023/in Blog
https://www.livingonthecotedazur.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/marian-baciu-LEtRM934K48-unsplash.jpg 1065 1600 Ab Kuijer https://www.livingonthecotedazur.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/sitelogo150.png Ab Kuijer2023-02-08 15:05:212023-11-21 10:32:13Why the Cote d’Azur is a must for investors in Europe

If you have a penchant for the bucolic charm of French farmhouse chic, then you may be keen to seek decorating inspiration for your own home.

It’s no secret that the French farmhouse style of interior decorating has been a popular trend for some time, as it provides a seamless blend of traditional charm and functionality. At the same time, it’s a style that can easily be personalised to suit your own particular tastes.

If you are keen to transform your new property – be it a townhouse, a cottage, or even an apartment – into a rustic French sanctuary, read on for some top tips to help you get started.

Choose The Perfect Colour Scheme

Colours can be powerful tools for creating a particular style or atmosphere around the home. When it comes to recreating French farmhouse elegance, the best hues to incorporate are soft, cheerful colours, such as white, cream, yellow, and blue. However, if you want your home to have a little more flair and drama, then there is no harm in introducing a bold shade here and there; tomato-red kitchen walls, for instance, or a lounge lined with floral wallpaper.

At the end of the day, the palette you use should be dictated by your own personal taste. Just remember that, when it comes to choosing colours for any north-facing rooms, you may want to err on the lighter side. A pristine snowy white, or perhaps a sunny yellow, will help to uplift the space and give these rooms a feeling of brightness and tranquil beauty.

Embrace Authenticity And Go For Herringbone Floors

The rustic French style is all about showcasing time-honoured traditions, and this ethos can be embodied by every aspect of your interior décor – including your floors. To create an instantly more traditional feel in your new home, you may want to consider laying down herringbone flooring, which is available in a range of materials – from real wood to LVT and laminate. The herringbone pattern dates back centuries and has been used by a number of cultures, including indigenous North American and Old Irish. The herringbone design can even be seen in Ancient Egyptian jewellery. However, it first became a popular flooring pattern in the 1500s, and since then, it has never really gone out of fashion.

While the type of material you use will depend on your unique requirements, there’s no doubt that the classic herringbone pattern will lend timeless sophistication to your floors. This is a quality prized in the realm of rustic French chic.

Try Matching Your Curtains To Your Walls

If you’re looking for an easy way to tie a particular room together, then you may want to consider selecting curtains that match the colour or pattern on your walls. For example, if you have chosen a pretty floral or nature-inspired wallpaper for your bedroom, then you can choose a matching pattern for your curtains to create the feel of a sunny wildflower meadow or a tranquil forest glade.

Worried about the space looking too ‘busy’? Simply opt for single-coloured bedding, rugs and cushions, so the overall effect of the matching walls and curtains isn’t too overwhelming or discordant.

Introduce Some Genuine Antiques

To create that traditional rustic look, it can help to place some genuine antiques in strategic spots around your home. Alternatively, you may want to repurpose some old items of furniture or ornaments that may have been handed down through your family for generations.

Vintage items can easily be found in charity shops, antique stores and online, and there are so many options to choose from. You can layer your floors with vintage rugs, sit and sleep on vintage furnishings, use vintage crockery and cutlery in your kitchen, and include vintage pottery and leatherbound books on your shelves and bookcases.

Experiment With Fabrics

Perhaps one of the most charming qualities of French rustic chic is that it doesn’t have to be perfect. In other words, not everything has to match or create a flawless aesthetic.

Instead, you can opt for more of a ‘maximalist’ approach, using different fabrics and patterns to create a whimsical hotch-potch of colour and texture. Think large mirrors with eye-catching frames, an assortment of soft furnishings featuring printed fabrics with different patterns and designs, and various ornaments and trinkets dotted around the room for added interest.

Honour The Traditions Of The Past

In the ‘olden days’, as we might wistfully refer to them, many of the objects that people had in their homes were carefully and skilfully created to look appealing, but their foremost purpose was to be practical and serve a useful function.

You can take a leaf out of their book, and incorporate some clever traditional design features in your French-inspired home – for example, by including hooks and racks where you can hang pots and pans to save on storage space, or creating a pantry area to store tinned goods.

Conclusion

While rustic French design may have its roots firmly in the past, it remains as popular as ever, and is likely to continue inspiring homeowners well into the future. Using these helpful tips, you can start introducing French farmhouse chic throughout your home and give it that extra ‘je ne sais quoi’.

by Ab Kuijer/27 January 2023/in Blog
https://www.livingonthecotedazur.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/daniel-chen-SoNaNOFT974-unsplash.jpg 800 1200 Ab Kuijer https://www.livingonthecotedazur.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/sitelogo150.png Ab Kuijer2023-01-27 09:55:112026-05-06 13:35:43Rustic French Style Tips To Transform Any Property

Being an entrepreneur, you like to work hard and make long days. With this, you have built a great company. However, there will come a time when you want to slow down to allow the younger generation to expand the company further. That’s a logical process: semi-retirement life lures you with more time for yourself and your loved ones. Of course, you will keep a finger in the pie.

But maybe you suddenly get an offer from a competitor that is too good to ignore. And then suddenly, there is an exciting amount in the bank account, and your future looks completely different.

Investing as an entrepreneur in French Riviera property

In both cases, you can finally do what you always wanted, but you don’t know exactly what. Looking daily at your bank account will get boring, and making another world trip to remote areas where poverty and green nature go hand in hand is also not on your bucket list. On the other hand, you don’t want to be surrounded by noisy people with bling-bling, and high-rise flats in Dubai don’t appeal to you either. Luxury problems more people struggle with; time to think about this and your pre retirement on the Cote d’Azur!

The most beautiful place on earth

The Cote d’Azur is perhaps the only place on Earth where all the good things in life come together; nature, the clean air, the healthy food, the wonderful sea, the mountains, the safety, the well-kept environment and so on.

We can confirm that; the quality of life here is fantastic. We meet many international entrepreneurs who can buy anything and live anywhere in the world. They ultimately opt for a home in the South of France. After all, you can fly quickly from this location to 121 destinations worldwide and reach the most varied places within an hour and a half by car. A market in Italy, an abandoned mountain village, a luxury car show in Monaco, a beach party in Saint Tropez, a ski resort with 70 slopes, a classy fish restaurant by the sea, or a hypermodern shopping mall with 300 shops. The Cote d’Azur is brimming with diversity. And for mini-city trips, cities such as Aix en Provence, Lyon and Barcelona can be reached within a morning. For Barcelona, you have to leave at 06:00 if you want to have lunch at the Playa de Barceloneta.

Investing in a villa in the South of France

Anyone with a severe amount of money in the bank wants to handle this carefully. Unfortunately, living off the interest on your savings is a concept from another century. Back then, you could still lead a quiet (but frugal) life with a million dollars in the bank. Today you have to pay the bank to keep your money. And you understand that money is reduced to a digital number in a digital account. With a simple push of a button, this money can also suddenly disappear.

It happened to an entrepreneur who saw the balance on his investment account at 0 one morning. The account manager could not tell where the millions had gone. After many phone calls, it became clear that a particular transaction form had not been entered internally. That is why the bank automatically decided to set the balance to 0.

These kinds of nightmares don’t happen too often (yet), but it’s been since 1900 that anyone with little savings knows that the best investment is in bricks. That has always been the case and always will be. Bricks that form a house together are the most stable investment you can enjoy living in and generate income with.

Two examples. An apartment in Cannes worth 1.5 million will generate a net income of 80,000 to 100,000 euros per year. And a luxury villa in Villefranche sur Mer can do this amount per month in high season. Count out your profit.

How much tax do you pay on your property?

In contrast to Italy, everything is neatly maintained in France, from street lights to trash cans and from security cameras to the cop’s outfit. Of course, we need tax money for that. Money that you also have to pay if you own a villa in (southern) France. This wealth tax, formerly known as ISF (Impot sur Fortune), has been called IFI (Impot sur la Fortune Immobiliere) since 2018 and is a specific tax on the real estate you own.

Not paying IFI tax, is that an option?

Nobody likes to pay too much tax if there are rules that can prevent that. Here are some examples from practice.

You buy a villa worth 5 million euros in your name. You must then pay 1% to IFI annually. That is 50,000 euros. After ten years of enjoying your villa, you, as the owner, are half a million poorer. But if you purchase the estate through an SCI property management company, you can divide the assessment per person between your (adult) children.

The more persons are listed as shareholders in the SCI, the less IFI everyone pays. Those who have many children can now finally benefit financially from this.

Or you buy a villa worth ten million or more and can pay for it in cash without any problems. You now pay year 150.000 euros tax. After ten years of enjoyment, you are suddenly one and a half million poorer. It is then better to use a private banking construction. In addition, you take out a 100% mortgage on your new villa, which means that the private bank is the owner on paper. With this construction, you will pay less IFI than if you buy the property in cash. The amount of tax will increase gradually until last year of the loan (year 20).

Private banking

The condition for every private bank is that you deposit around 50% of the mortgage amount in a portfolio that the bank manages for you. This is not a high-risk portfolio with bitcoin and ether currencies but a conservative portfolio with investments that give a low and inevitable return, such as government bonds. Nevertheless, the private bank will be able to profit from this. You can use part of this profit to pay your mortgage. In this way, the knife cuts on three sides: you have a better bank balance in your private life, you do not pay wealth tax on your property, and you lower your mortgage costs.

A realistic side note: the yield received on the portfolio can help to offset the cost of the loan (interest payments) so the carry is positive but perhaps not all the cost including taxes. It depends from the strategy and risk profile selected by each client.

For entrepreneurs this is an interesting structure. Instead of locking ten million in a property; you only invest 5,7 million. The other 4,3 million can be used to invest in your company or other real estate assets.

Entrepreneur with a bank in Monaco

Unlike French banks, which see entrepreneurs as a ‘red flag’, banks in Monaco love an entrepreneur. They prefer that you do not retire but continue to do business. You can then, for example, participate with your company, which is an exciting option for everyone.

Buying a French property with a Monegasque SCI has the extra advantage that your children with never have to pay inheritance tax on the property. A good protection for their future.

As a real estate advisor in luxury villas on the Cote d’Azur, we would like to introduce you to our network of financial advisors. Because buying a luxury villa in the South of France is done quickly, it is wise to discuss the purchase options in advance and to realize them intelligently. This requires outside expertise. Many wealthy buyers preceded you and lived here without any worries. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us for an initial intake.

Protect your children from inheritance tax, save IFI taxes and buy your dream home while keeping a healthy cash flow.

When are you flying to Nice?

by Ab Kuijer/12 January 2023/in Blog
https://www.livingonthecotedazur.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/smiling-couple-sitting-beach-blanket.jpg 800 1200 Ab Kuijer https://www.livingonthecotedazur.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/sitelogo150.png Ab Kuijer2023-01-12 11:58:312026-05-06 13:35:31Investing as an entrepreneur in a French Riviera property
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by Ab Kuijer/7 January 2023/in Blog
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The pandemic has brought many changes to people’s daily lives–one of them is the popularization of remote work. Because of this, many workers discovered that it was possible to work from far-flung locations, even outside their countries. Consequently, large corporations like Twitter and Facebook announced they would make remote work permanent for their employees.

The French Riviera is a great place to live and work remotely. Still, if you want to explore new destinations, especially with the freedom to live anywhere while making money, we compiled the ten perfect locations for remote work so you won’t have to.

Portugal

Ranking the highest, Portugal is the best place for remote work. This country allows these digital nomads to work remotely by providing special visas to help them settle in the nation more smoothly, in addition to the untamed scenery of the Algarve region, the beautiful beaches of Lisbon, and the regional cuisine. The Portuguese are incredibly amiable, have a high level of English proficiency, and have a low crime rate. This southern European nation’s lovely climate and low pollution levels only contribute to its allure.

Japan

Japan gets the best rating of any nation in the Asia-Pacific region. It is the best country for remote work since it has the fastest internet in the world. Workers who choose to relocate there will enjoy a very high standard of living due to the country’s almost nonexistent levels of insecurity and extensive cultural offerings. Recently, it reopened its borders to visitors from abroad, allowing them to once more go to Japan’s numerous world-class attractions.

Romania

Romania is a fantastic location for living and working remotely. They are the perfect remote work destination for persons who want to emigrate to a tiny town and live a traditional life. It also provides affordable long-term apartment leases, high-quality internet connectivity, and a low cost of living.

Panama

Numerous remote workers are drawn to Panama because of the country’s pleasant weather and affordable cost of living. They also improved their internet system and created specific visas for people who wanted to move there while keeping their jobs in their home country, as they are aware of employees looking for a location away from the gloom of the old world. It ranks as the second most attractive nation in America.

Costa Rica

Costa Rica is the best-ranked nation in North and Central America and is situated on the Central American isthmus. The welcoming folks’ warm demeanour and strongly people-centred way of life allow perfect social integration. Additionally, this country offers visas to remote workers, making them one of the ideal countries to work away from home. Despite occasionally expensive pricing, the country has one of the most outstanding healthcare systems among its neighbours.

Czechia (The Czech Republic)

Czechia, generally known as the Czech Republic, is yet another good possibility for remote workers to check out. Though the weather isn’t nearly as sunny as in many other countries, Czechia makes up for it with its political stability, social equality, low traffic deaths, and low air pollution rates. This country in Europe is where you can work and play without needing to keep an eye on your back. Prague, the nation’s capital, is a bustling metropolis chock-full of stunning architecture, fascinating history, and a hip art scene.

Spain

People who want to work remotely frequently go to the Iberian Peninsula. The nation can be proud of having various infrastructures ideal for these remote workers, particularly their sizable co-working spaces. The country simplifies the administrative process by providing a special visa for independent contractors. The most well-known regions of Spain, such as Catalonia, Madrid, and Andalusia, are easier to reach than ever.

Malta

The Mediterranean nation’s excellent health and safety rating makes it one of the top locations for remote work. Because of its political stability, minimal risk of violence, traffic accidents, air pollution, and support for LGBTQ people, Malta is a safe destination to live or travel to. This country is ideal for a safe and healthy remote work location when considering the nation’s low COVID rate. Regarding remote employment, Malta has introduced a 12-month “nomad residency permit” designed to attract remote employees to the country for a mix of work-life balance and leisure time. Malta’s stunning scenery and unique architecture will undoubtedly aid in the latter. Additionally, Malta is a popular retirement destination, which is good news for remote workers who frequently have similar needs in a location.

Germany

The most notable characteristic in Germany is social life. It also emphasizes Germany’s high proportion of English-speaking citizens and its dense population of theatres, museums, taverns, and clubs. When working remotely from Germany, you can choose between exploring the downtown streets for dining and cultural options or wandering through the hills in lederhosen.

Mauritius

This island country, off Madagascar’s coast, is well-known for its beautiful beaches, delectable cuisine, and exciting travel prospects. Despite having a limited social life, they are also renowned for their health, safety, and weather. Mauritius can be the perfect destination for you if you’d instead relax on a beach and scuba dive than go to theatres and art museums.

Bottom Line

Working remotely offers many advantages to employees: it prevents burnout and increases the workers’ productivity. While many people plan to work remotely or even retire abroad, assessing whether these countries are worth the costs is still critical. When considering relocating, make sure you include your moving expenses and any wage changes to ensure that they will be compensated by the reduced cost of living in your new country.

Copy by Arleen Atienza

by Ab Kuijer/6 January 2023/in Blog
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Being a UK citizen, you might get depressed by the weather forecast. We fully understand that. You often think back to those French Riviera summers that lasted forever. Well, not really forever, otherwise you would be here, on the Cote d’Azur and not in the UK.

If you’re planning on retiring in the South of France, we can help with our UK partner to discuss the various financial issues that you might face. For instance, if you’re not sure about the type of pension benefits that you’ll receive, it’s important that you speak with a qualified professional. They can review your situation and provide advice based on their expertise.

UK resident? QROPS might be the best way to retire in France

When you are ready cross the channel and leave the grey rain behind you, our team is ready to answer the following questions:

•    Should I take the Pension Commencement Lump Sum (PCLS) available?
•    Do I buy an annuity or enter into a drawdown contract?
•    What are the options, such as phased retirement, that are available?

What are QROPS?

A QROPS is a type of pension transfer scheme that’s recognised by the UK’s HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC). It’s designed to meet the standards of a UK pension. The word QROPS sounds like a secret James Bond mission tool, but it stands for Qualifying Recognised Overseas Pension Schemes. You can easily transfer a UK pension into an overseas scheme if it’s registered with an organization that’s approved by the UK’s tax authority.

Do you qualify for QROPS?
QROPS are a great pension option for people who have a UK pension but are not currently residing in the country or plan on leaving. You must get professional advice to ensure that you do not break the rules. Our UK partner has a team of financial professionals that can help you establish and manage your QROPS retirement plan. Once you have this in place, you can start finding a property on the French Riviera. Wouldn’t that be nice?

Why should I choose a QROPS?
Setting up a QROPS is one of the best ways to benefit from your pension fund’s investment potential. It allows you to control where your funds are invested, consolidate multiple pension plans into one, and avoid buying into an automatic retirement income. Additionally, the remaining funds are tax-free once they are distributed to your beneficiaries.

What are the pension key benefits of a QROPS?

•    No need to buy an annuity
•    Funds passed to beneficiaries in full after death: after completing 5 full tax years of non UK Tax residency, your pension will no longer be
liable to UK income tax or death charges of up to 45%
•    Your pension can be paid in a flexible choice of currency
•    Up to 30% pension commencement lump sum.
•    Secure jurisdictions
•    Investment flexibility
•    Transparent charges
•    Greater investment freedom
•    Succession planning
•    Pensions can be consolidated into one
•    Free from UK lump sum death benefit charge
•    Some jurisdiction allow your pension income to be paid gross

Becoming a resident of France, which is the best QROPS jurisdiction?

The Finance Act of 2012, which established QROPS jurisdiction in France, made Malta the preferred choice for residents. Malta is a member of the European Union and has a very transparent and sophisticated tax system that makes it ideal as a QROPS jurisdiction.

Please note if you become resident outside of the EEA within 5 years of the transfer to a EU QROPS, there is likely to be a retrospective tax charge.

Is it possible to transfer my UK pension to QROPS after Brexit?
There were worries that the country would impose a 25% fee on transfers within the EU. The UK’s 2021 budget did not contain any changes to QROPS regulations. There are currently no plans to change the regulations following the country’s exit from the European Union. This means that if you are transferring your pension to France, and you are a resident of the EU for at least five years, you will not be subjected to the 25% tax. It is also important to note that the UK has exited the EU, so it is no longer obligated to follow the EU’s freedom of capital movement rules.

Advantages of transferring your UK pension into a QROPS fund
When you transfer your pension to an EU-based euro fund, you will no longer have to deal with fluctuations in the exchange rate or fees.

An EU pension fund allows you to take advantage of the tax advantages of investing in other countries. It also provides estate planning flexibility.

You can reduce or even remove all of your tax liability at death.

You can also withdraw up to 30% of your accumulated lump sum.

Potential risks
Withdrawals of up to 30% in France will still be subject to local taxes. An option would be to take a 25% tax-free lump sum while still residing in the UK.

Depending on your personal situation, French taxes on social charges and pension income can be high.

All together, enough reasons to get in contact with our QROPS specialists.

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by Ab Kuijer/5 January 2023/in Blog
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A second home is a sanctuary for people, a spot to unwind and take a holiday. Additionally, you can turn it into an investment property you can rent while not in use.

For the French, a vacation home must be near the coast. You might be surprised by the beach towns and villages identified as the most popular areas to buy a second house in France.

However, if you are generally familiar with the buying process of a house, there are some specifics to purchasing a secondary residence that you must know. It includes the flexibility of location, whether you want to spend more time there, rent it out to tourists, or do a combination of both.

Once you’ve considered that, it’s time to find your next property. Here are the ten best locations to help you find your best second home in the South of France.

The French Riviera

The stunning Mediterranean Sea coastline in the south of France is known as the French Riviera. Because it is well-known for its beaches, views, picture-perfect sea, and yachts, many French people like this location. It also features a renowned art and culture scene and lovely cities and villages (including Monaco, an autonomous state). It is a region that enjoys a tremendous mild to warm climate (and sunshine) year-round because it is where the Alps and the Mediterranean meet.

Valbonne, Cannes, Saint-Tropez, and Villefranche-sur-Mer are the four areas on the French Riviera that are most sought-after for second homes. Which would you prefer: a luxurious vacation property in Saint-Tropez, a high-performing revenue stream in Cannes, a picturesque view from the Villefranche-sur-Mer hills, or an ideal Provençal lifestyle in Valbonne?

Bassin d’Arcachon, Gironde, Nouvelle-Aquitaine

Many suggest that the Bassin d’Arcachon on the Atlantic coast of France is the best place to buy a second house in France. The Bassin d’Arcachon, about an hour from Bordeaux, is home to several charming villages and Cap Ferret and Arcachon towns. Along with the Dune du Pilat, the tallest dune in Europe, pine forests, and oyster ports, there are 76 km of beaches. The excellent news is that, out of these top 10, buying a home in Bassin d’Arcachon is the least expensive. A house in the south of the Bassin will cost you, on average €311,000, according to the Notaires de France website, whereas to the north, it costs €287,000.

Cassis, Bouches-du-Rhône, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur

The coastal village of Cassis near Marseille came in third on the list of the best places to own a second house in France. With its charming hamlet, beaches, and boat cruises to the adjacent Calanques, it is no surprise that Cassis, an old fishing village, has developed into a popular vacation spot. The Notaires de France website does not provide an average house price, but an apartment here will cost you €4,730/m2.

Sainte-Maxime, Var, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur

It is not unexpected that Sainte-Maxime, a famous Riviera town with a prime location on the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, made the list of the finest places to own a second house in France. It is the perfect location for a vacation house, with more than 10 kilometres of white sand beaches and 300 days of sunlight annually. However, you can anticipate being joined by many other tourists during the busiest months. There are numerous seaside pubs and eateries and various markets every week. But according to the Notaires de France, the average price of a home in Saint-Maxime is €587,600.

Deauville, Calvados, Normandy

The Norman beach town of Deauville is among the favorite locations to buy a second property. Deauville, often known as the Parisian Riviera, has been a popular seaside destination since the late 19th century when affluent Parisians began to travel there. They constructed opulent mansions, a casino, an elegant seafront promenade, and a racetrack. Head to the Promenade des Planches boardwalk along the beach to see the beach cabins named after the Hollywood stars who have visited. The town is still a favorite among the wealthy and famous, especially during the annual American Film Festival.

Île-de-Ré, Charente-Maritime, Nouvelle-Aquitaine

Île-de-Ré, an island off the coast of La Rochelle, is a well-liked French vacation spot. La Flotte and Ars-en-Ré, two Plus Beaux Villages with whitewashed cottages, blue shutters, sandy beaches, and vibrant marketplaces, are found on the island. The Île-de-Ré is ideal for summer vacations because it gets nearly as much sun as the Mediterranean shore! According to the Notaires de France, the average home price in Île-de-Ré is €476,000, making it significantly less expensive.

Ramatuelle, Var, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur

Ramatuelle is a favourite among celebrities and is located on the glitzy French Riviera near Saint-Tropez, so it’s no surprise that it made the list of the most incredible places to own a second house! The village is a charming combination of winding lanes, old buildings, and arts & crafts stores located on a hill overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Overlooking the well-known Pampelonne beach is Ramatuelle. The Notaires de France website does not include the typical property prices for Ramatuelle, as this is a rare market with high demand and just a few exclusive properties for sale. However, the average home price in the gulf of Saint-Tropez starts at €600,000. For luxury villas, property listings begin at 2 million.

Saint-Jean-de-Luz, Pyrénées-Atlantiques, Nouvelle-Aquitaine

Located just south of Biarritz, Saint-Jean-de-Luz is a popular tourist destination but has a more laid-back atmosphere than its neighbour. Families love the crescent-shaped beach, and strolling along the large promenade is a lot of fun. A second home would be fantastic in this town, filled with vibrant Basque houses, boutique stores, seafood restaurants, a casino, and various spas. According to the Notaires de France, the average home in Saint-Jean-de-Luz costs €465,000, making it less expensive than Biarritz.

Porto-Vecchio, Corse-du-Sud, Corsica

A variety of well-known, world-famous beaches, notably Palombaggia, which TripAdvisor users named one of the superb beaches in France, are near Porto-Vecchio, a bustling seaside town in southern Corsica. With mountains above, a coastline below, and lovely town streets to wander through, Porto-Vecchio offers the best of both worlds. One of the less expensive locations on this list, a house in Porto-Vecchio will run you an average of €372,100.

Quiberon, Morbihan, Brittany

The picturesque Quiberon peninsula is one of the best areas to purchase a vacation house. The mountainous coastline and sandy beaches offer lots of holiday activities. There are several quaint Breton settlements to explore, even if it doesn’t have the same hot summers as the southern coast. According to the Notaires de France, the average house costs €325,000, making real estate another bargain.

A contribution by Arleen Atienza

by Ab Kuijer/3 January 2023/in Blog
https://www.livingonthecotedazur.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/callum-galloway-2T-3Jdo9ugU-unsplash.jpg 800 1200 Ab Kuijer https://www.livingonthecotedazur.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/sitelogo150.png Ab Kuijer2023-01-03 17:06:512025-09-01 15:38:35A second home in (the South of) France

This article previously appeared in the summer edition 2022 of the magazine Cote & Provence.

Not only are the temperatures reaching unprecedented heights in the South of France, but new construction is also breaking records. However, it is not the sales that score extremely high, but the building construction itself. In Joia Nice Méridia, the newest district of Nice, close to the Allianz football stadium and the newly opened Ikea, the Nice of the 22nd century is being built with a clear vision. Ecological, creative, energy efficient and designed with a free hand for renowned international architects such as the Italian Cino Zucchi and the Japanese Sou Fujimoto. The latter was allowed to develop the Hana building, which means flower in Japanese. With round shapes for the playful balconies, the building looks like a petal from the air. With no fewer than seventeen floors, Hana is an absolute asset to Nice.

Price increase new construction during sale

The sale went uniquely. The sale price of non-ocean view floors was launched first, and as interest in Hana grew, higher floors were released for sale. And every time, the price per square meter rose so that the very top floors were sold without any problems for a fee at the highest level. But then you also live very specially: with tram line 2 in front of the door and the sea on the horizon.

What is also extraordinary is an ambitious new construction project in Èze. Located on the highest road on the mountain, the project developer energetically started sales even before the pandemic. Until the neighbours saw the brochure and the price list and calculated how much profit the project developer was making. Immediately objections were lodged against the construction. This happens on an ongoing basis, by the way. It is a legal game between lawyers in which the neighbours are eventually bought off with an attractive extra sum of money to withdraw the objection. Fortunately, after two years of lawsuits and delays, sales will start again at the end of August.

Outside influence

The situation in the world has little impact on sales in the South of France. I would even venture to say that the more uncertain the economy seems, the faster people withdraw their savings from the bank and invest in Cote d’Azur bricks. France is an ideal country that offers all kinds of tax benefits for new construction buyers. You may be familiar with the 20% VAT refund on the purchase price of a new apartment. But if you come to live here and France is your primary address from now on, there is even more, to be gained.

Suppose you buy a new apartment, and rent it out to your child; then you pay less tax yourself, thanks to the Loi Pinel. It is an intelligent way to tackle housing shortages among first-time buyers. If your children work themselves and it is their first home, the French state also offers help by offering mortgages with 0% interest, the so-called PTZ scheme, le prêt à taux zéro. And so France, and especially the South of France, remains for many people the promised land where the sun shines no less than three hundred days a year. With beautiful restaurants, lots of culture and supermarkets full of fruit and vegetables from the region. Because the French have also understood that well: without their farmers, it is difficult to eat.

by Jolanda Kuijer/27 December 2022/in Blog
https://www.livingonthecotedazur.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/eze-geit-joachim-lesne-QH40PO2KESw-unsplash.jpg 800 1200 Jolanda Kuijer https://www.livingonthecotedazur.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/sitelogo150.png Jolanda Kuijer2022-12-27 18:16:182023-12-13 16:05:59New construction in the South of France is rising

Buying a property in Mougins

If you have never heard of Mougins, you’ll be surprised how many famous musicians, film stars, directors, and writers are visiting this place. Only 15 minutes from dazzling Cannes, Mougins is like a haven of peace and tranquillity, on top of a hill, with a medieval centre and surrounded by green woods and golf courses.

A magical setting where you can find property for sale on a high level, just like the audience visiting Mougins. The old town of Mougins is surrounded by valleys and hills offering luxury properties in Mediterranean gardens. These villas and properties provide excellent views of the surrounding countryside. Although it is accessible to various areas such as Antibes, Nice, Juan Les Pins, and Cannes, Mougins is set in its own private and quiet world.

Situated in the district of Grasse, Mougins is a beautiful medieval village. It is also a popular destination for Hollywood stars visiting the area for Cannes’s annual film festival. This region has diverse forests, including Cyprus, olive, and pine trees.

The village of Mougins, constructed in the Mediaeval period, is located between Grasse and Cote d’Aix-en-Provence and is just three kilometres away from the A8 motorway. This makes it very easy to reach all parts of the Cote d’Azur.

The Valmasque Forest, located in the village of Mougins, is a natural feature that can enhance the quality of life that people experience. It is open to the public and has a great outdoor recreational area for cyclists and dog walkers. This area is very desirable due to its location. The village is about 300 meters above the Mediterranean and offers panoramic views of the Bay of Cofran and the sea from its apartments and villas.

For families from the US and the UK, Mougins is especially interesting because of the Mougins International School. Famous and loved by many ex-pats and international locals that aim for the best international education for their children.

For golf fanatics or debutants, the Royal Golf Mougins is undoubtedly one of the most prestigious golf domains in the area, combining a beautiful 18 holes golf course with a luxury spa and resort hotel. A great day out.

Actors, writers, and artists, all came in the ’50s and are still visiting on and buying on the Côte d’Azur because of its mix of glamour and pure nature.

The French Riviera is one of the best places to live in, and Mougins might be where you will find your new luxury property for sale that will make you feel at home.

Mougins is situated just a few miles from Cannes and has been popular with Winston Churchill, Elizabeth Taylor, and Catherine Deneuve.

Mougins in France on the Côte d’Azur is for both international stars and local people famous for its restaurants; you have to visit their annual festival of gastronomy, Les Etoiles de Mougins.

http://www.lesetoilesdemougins.com

The village of Mougins is known for its annual gastronomic event, the International Gastronomy Festival. This event takes place every September and is held in the town. Numerous world-class restaurants, such as the L’Amandier and the Mougins, as well as two championship golf courses, are located in the village of Mougins. It also has several galleries and museums that are related to art and photography.

One of the most prominent individuals who have been associated with the village of Mougins is the renowned French chef and restaurant owner Roger Vergé. He was known for his restaurant L’Amandier and the Four-Michelin-Star restaurant known as the Mougins de Mougins. In 2010, Denis Fetisson became the new owner and head chef of the restaurant located in the village of Mougins. He was previously the head chef at Le Cheval Blanc, a two-Michelin-Star restaurant in Cotechevel.

Culture and luxury will make you feel at home

A new museum dedicated to art has put Mougins firmly further on the culture map. And you know what they say about art and artists; “if the artists come, real estate investors follow” to make it a winning combination. The Mougins Museum of Classical Art is also an addition to the ‘route d’art’ along the French Riviera, where many famous artists left their footprint with permanent structures.

https://www.mouginsmusee.com/en

Mougins Côte d’Azur, centre of the French Riviera

What makes Mougins Côte d’Azur an enviable location? Apart from its historical cultural heritage, it is a combination of other things such well structured and surrounded plants and green nature (forests, gardens, and parks), arts and modern technology. Without having a stop-over, you can decide to go by flight since it has two airports nearby; in Nice and in Cannes.

Unlike other communities of the world, Mougins is jointly maintained by its inhabitants and municipality. It is nothing else but a royal diadem to the Côte d’Azur. Apart from being a tourists’ attraction, Mougins is well designed to be attractive especially with those beautiful hanging baskets, different types of a fountain, a brightly coloured display of floral, eye-catching boutiques and interesting galleries. The sight is irresistible.

Les Gourmands

It is not enough to visit the place for its attractive designs alone. You might want to think of the possibility of getting the right restaurant that will prepare your preferred dish. There are several competing restaurants from which you can get all the appealing delicacies of your choice either continental or traditional ones.

For instance, Moulin de Mougins, managed by professional chefs coupled with the décor, exceptional service, and the unique taste of each food served there, is worth mentioning. A visit to this restaurant will convince you that it is more than just a mere description. You will meet more than you are reading now and won’t be disappointed. Visitors have found it better than previous visits. In the summer, they change the name to Vidaa, a party dining experience with live music.

Another notable beauty of Mougins Côte d’Azur is found in her art as earlier mentioned. This is attributed to Francis Picabia and Pablo Picasso, the artists who once lived here. Some of their works were so outstanding that they pulled notable people to the village; the beginning of tourism. They were instrumental to some of the beautiful craft designs, paintings, and photographs in this environment.

What other delightful treasures can you see around Mougins? The village is well stretched out with an alluring green look. If you love nature, you’ll love Mougins Côte d’Azur because the forests, trees, gardens, and flower plants are a sight to behold. What of picnic centres, pools that reflect the bright colour of the sky, footpaths, well-planned streets among others?

There is no time of the year that this place is boring; it is always full of life and attractive. We are in Mougins with our local partners to show you impressive bastides and luxury villas with a stunning sea views. Email [email protected] or WhatsApp +33770186203 for a personal selection and full-service guidance.

by Ab Kuijer/13 December 2022/in Blog
https://www.livingonthecotedazur.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Mougins-village-iStock-1302583771-web.jpg 483 724 Ab Kuijer https://www.livingonthecotedazur.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/sitelogo150.png Ab Kuijer2022-12-13 16:56:002026-05-07 09:19:34What to see and buy in Mougins

Market update

France has not escaped the rise of rates over the last few months. Yet these increases have not been to the level seen in countries like the UK. In France, as the rates were extremely low to begin with, the recent rise puts them back in the realm of normality. The Tec 10 index, which ultimately dictates how much the French government pays to borrow money over 10 years in France, fell during the summer 2019 to its lowest ever level of -0.5% and now stands at 2.76% after an increase in 2022.

Why is the rising of French mortgage rates a good thing?

Even though the rates are rising rapidly, they are reaching a level that was considered a normality before the all-time historic low level we witnessed for a couple of years. They are still quite low and more importantly fixed for the whole duration.

As you can see, rates have been extremely low (under 2,5%) in France for around half a decade. During this period we’ve seen a gradual constriction of the market, with fewer mortgage products on the market and even fewer banks offering non-resident mortgages at all.

Yet with such low mortgage rates in France, is anyone really surprised the market has ended here? As much as many consumers are programmed to loathe banking institutions (unless it favours or benefits them), if there is such little money in a market, is it a surprise that the products within that market have dwindled?

This summer we spoke about the Taux d’usure which is the maximum APRC that a bank can charge to a client. The taux d’usure is set up by the Banque de France and is calculated every 3 months. On October 1st, it has been calculated at 3.05%. That means that your mortgage (insurance and fees included) cannot cost you more than 3.05%.

The rising of this cap is a good thing, as much as it seems bad. At least it means there is more money within the market which will lead to new mortgage products. And whilst they’ll be at higher rates than the all-time lows we’ve seen over the last few years, at least there will be product available at all!

Mortgage rates update

Next year we expect the rate for a 20 year capital repayment mortgage to reach 4%. Despite the situation, we have a good number of options for our non resident clients, with an average deposit of 30% for EU residents or 50% for non EU residents with a rate around 2.80% – 2.90% fixed for 20 years.

Some banks are today offering rates above the taux d’usure mark (around 4.20% fixed for 20 years) if the purchase / lending is deemed commercial (through a SARL or SCI for example). It is not bad at all compared to what you can fix for in the USA or the UK at the moment. For British buyers it is a bit more complicated since Brexit, but for next year our UK mortgage team has a new bank that could finance our UK investors.

Credits French Private Finance in London.

by Ab Kuijer/9 December 2022/in Blog
https://www.livingonthecotedazur.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/5a19cac9-a410-4784-893b-500b90213e6f.jpg 1034 1600 Ab Kuijer https://www.livingonthecotedazur.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/sitelogo150.png Ab Kuijer2022-12-09 14:57:402026-05-06 13:34:52Why is the rising of French mortgage rates a good thing?
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