Advantages of Investment in France
1. Historically a strong and stable market in which to invest in property and all economic indications show this trend is set to continue
2. Modern, European culture with political and economic stability
3. Long term residential property price growth at a very respectable approx. 10% per annum. No danger of losing money in a potentially volatile investment climate
4. Net rental yields of around 7-10%
5. Highly popular leaseback schemes offer tax incentives to purchasers, with minimum risk and guaranteed rental income.
6. Ever increasing inward and overseas investment, while American expatriates are now exploiting the high value of the dollar.
7. Relatively low property prices when compared to most northern European countries.
8. Capital gains tax on housing recently halved to 16%. You are exempt if you hold your property for more than 15 years.
9. One of the most visited countries of the World with a correspondingly strong tourist market.
10. Excellent, modern transportation infrastructure and close, easy links with the UK and mainland Europe
11. Easily accessed mortgage facilities, making it relatively easy to raise finance for a French property purchase.
12. Geographical diversity and many natural and cultural attractions, making France so popular as a tourist location. Chic, cosmopolitan atmosphere and culture in the livelier towns such as Paris, Nice and Cannes.
13. Beautiful rural towns and villages, also with that unmistakable French charm, that continues to draw visitors and expatriates.
14. Famous French cuisine, wine and lifestyle.
15. Safe place to buy property due to a strict buying process and legal system.
16. Double tax treaty with France and the UK ensuring you do not pay tax twice.

Due its proximity to much of Europe, property in France offers many homebuyers a great opportunity to have a second home for their holidays while often taking advantage of the popular French leaseback system. Others may even relocate to France on a more permanent basis. Alternatively, there are many investment options available, including off-plan and buy-to-let strategies in many key investment locations such as major cities or current tourist hotspots. Capital appreciation, while not as high as in some emerging markets, is considered to be profitable and reliable within a stable investment climate. France also offers easy and accessible finance facilities where mortgages to foreigners can be obtained for up to 100% of the valuation of the property and interest rates are highly competitive at 4%. The Government’s leaseback investment option offers guaranteed rental yields of some 5.5%, more than covering the cost of mortgage interest, and a full VAT refund of 19.6%.

France benefits from excellent direct flight communications with the UK and the rest of Europe as well as first class rail and road links, making it a highly convenient holiday and investment destination. The quality of life and slightly warmer climate continue to attract those looking for a continental lifestyle while being only a relatively short distance from folks “back home”.

Our France Investment Research section allows you to investigate further France’s potential as a property investment location. IPIN members may view carefully selected France investment opportunities and, if you are not a member, you can join FREE now and gain instant access our detailed Investor Reports on these properties. By joining the IPIN you will have access to all selected French property and investment opportunities.