Glorious mountains, ocean-side beaches, charming villages, sweeping vineyards, modern cities and fast airport access – South West France offers opportunities to all.
At Home Hunts, the regions of Aquitaine and the Midi-Pyrénées make up the South West France territory. As explained in Home Hunts’ recent property insights report, INSIDE FRANCE, the South West remains infinitely popular with overseas buyers.
According to Rory Ramsden, one of Home Hunts’ consultants in South West France, there are five major areas that are the most coveted by those looking to buy property in South West France. These are: locations within 30 minutes of Bordeaux; the Dordogne; the Lot; Gers; and the Lot-et-Garonne.
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Best of city and country in Bordeaux
Those looking for property within thirty minutes of Bordeaux are seeking the best of both city and country. They want to be close enough to Bordeaux so that they can enjoy the culture, restaurants and shopping, and benefit from easy access to the international airport. “As well as this buyers also want to live in the country with no or few neighbours, possibly surrounded by vines, some or all of which could be their own,” says Rory.
“In addition, there is the high-speed train, which, from 2017, will whisk them up to Gare Montparnasse in two hours,” he says, adding that businesses in and around Paris are moving offices to Bordeaux because of the new train link so property prices are feeling the effect.
“Bordeaux is in the middle of a 30-year development strategy,” says Rory. “For those looking for a solid investment, which will be quick to sell, being close to Bordeaux works. The city is being transformed by area and is probably the most desirable city for French people to live in right now.”
Dreaming of the Dordogne
A busy tourist destination in the summer and a favourite location with Brits looking to buy property in South West France, the Dordogne is also popular with those wishing to run a B&B or gite business.
“There are some beautiful châteaux, chartreuses and village houses to buy in this area if you know where to look,” says Rory. “There are also some incredible renovation projects if you have the experience and the know-how to take them on.”
Convenience and solitude in the Lot
Around an hour from Toulouse’s international airport, the Lot – and particularly the area around Cahors – has plenty of attractive properties for sale that offer good value for money. “Clients can be blown away by the solitude of a property knowing they are still within minutes of local amenities,” says Rory.
“Buyers are mainly looking for second homes, but those with a commercial interest should consider the Lot as there is a distinct lack of good quality small hotels.”
Gers for culture and countryside
Condom, Lectoure, Fleurance – and many of the other towns and villages in this area also known as Gascony – are highly popular with international clients wishing looking to buy property in South West France.
“Many are seeking a country estate away from busy roads, yet they can be within one hour or so of Toulouse with its excellent restaurants, shops and culture,” explains Rory. “Not to mention Toulouse Blagnac, which has more international connections than Bordeaux Merignac due to the aerospace industry.”
Find a farmhouse in the Lot-et-Garonne
A popular tourist destination, the Lot-et-Garonne is also home to many of the bastide towns built in France during the Hundred Years War. Bergerac, Toulouse and Bordeaux serve as airports for those living in the department.
In terms of the most coveted towns, Rory says that Castillonnès, Monflanquin, Fumel and Villeneuve-sur-Lot are all worth further investigation, especially for those looking for a country house or renovated farm.
If you are looking to buy property in South West France, you can search for property in these five locations and more at www.home-hunts.com. To speak to a Home Hunts consultant directly about your criteria, call +33 (0)970 44 66 43.
