If you are thinking of investing in a property in France, or have started looking at houses for sale, then you will be aware of the many different styles, locations and conditions of the properties on offer. From fully renovated houses but requiring a good lick of paint to those requiring the property equivalent of CPR (resuscitation). And believe it or not, there are literally thousand of properties in France which are in a desperate state but not irredeemable.
Properties in France are in general still a bargain for many Brits wishing to relocate or retire to France and participate in what many might say is a better way of life. The fact is that most areas of the UK still benefit from exceptionally high value homes, when compared to properties in France. And for those considering investing in a French property to renovate, please ask yourself the question – do you really want to spend years replacing ancient plumbing or constantly fixing a leaky roof? Would you be prepared to take this on – property renovation for example. Admittedly it is at the radical end of the spectrum.
The trend for buying a dilapidated French property to renovate, whether a barn, villa, townhouse, cottage or chateau, is still going strong. For many retirees who are themselves professional tradesmen or knowledgeable handymen, the lure is great. A chance to own their very own project where they are the boss in a major undertaking. However, do you really want to spend years putting right a series of D.I.Y. disasters that someone else has made; during what should be a slower time for relaxation and enjoyment? What a pity to relocate or retire to such a fabulous place as South West France and then not have the time to enjoy its myriad delights. There is a balance to be found and a serious question to be answered.
Before making the decision to buy a property to renovate, you owe it to yourself (and your family) to think about buying a home – that is a property which has already been restored; with good plumbing, a safe electrical system and a sound roof. And many such properties for sale in France can be found on internet portals at what often seem like ridiculously low prices (houses to renovate too). Turning your three bed semi in a big city in the UK into an already renovated French chateau in its own grounds may be the wiser and therefore preferable choice. Just think of all the time you could spend playing golf, fishing or just playing with the grandkids in the garden if you avoid all the time and effort needed to undertake a major renovation.
The bottom line is that there is an amazing number of properties which have been beautifully restored and are worthy of consideration. However, if the allure of a renovation still takes your fancy then there is an incredible choice in France. Thee are many times more opportunities in France than in the U.K. without doubt.
t the end of the day, it really is about what you wish to do with your retirement and what is most important to you, and your family. If you have been lucky enough to discover the pleasures of south west France, then you may already be smitten.
This article has received 3 Ducks – Gerald Duck