French Real Estate Blog

Wer zahlt die Provision?

julianecremers@gmail.com (Juliane Cremers) — Tue, 15 Jul 2025 13:17:08 GMT

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Overview of the region, real estate prices

julianecremers@gmail.com (Juliane Cremers) — Sun, 27 Apr 2025 22:21:11 GMT

Overview over cities and villages in the regions

ON THE COAST

Nice

The largest city on the Côte d'Azur, Nice is cosmopolitan yet relaxed, with excellent healthcare, international schools, vibrant markets, and a lively cultural scene. Neighborhoods vary from buzzing city life in the center to leafy, calm hills like Cimiez or Mont Boron. Beautiful bourgeois architecture.

Pros : City amenities, beaches, excellent transport, you can live without a car
Cons : Crowded during tourist season
Real Estate : Moderate to high prices; expect €5,000–€10,000/m² depending on the area

Antibes

A charming coastal town combining old-world France with a lively marina and beach lifestyle. Antibes also hosts a large English-speaking community and offers excellent dining and shopping options.

Pros : Walkable, authentic, international community
Cons : Rising property prices, summer crowds
Real Estate : Mid to high; €6,000–€9,000/m² in town, higher in Cap d'Antibes

Cannes

Known worldwide for its Film Festival, Cannes mixes luxury shopping, sandy beaches, and high-end apartments along the Croisette. Inland neighborhoods like Le Cannet offer quieter, more affordable options.

Pros : Glamorous, vibrant, excellent infrastructure
Cons : Expensive and tourist-heavy in high season
Real Estate : High; €7,000–€15,000/m² near the center, more affordable inland

THE BEAUTIFUL VILLAGES

Mougins

A prestigious, hilltop village just 15 minutes from Cannes, known for art, gastronomy, and a high standard of living. Popular with families and professionals due to proximity to Sophia Antipolis and top international schools.

Pros : Elegant, peaceful, between sea and countryside
Cons : Car needed for daily life
Real Estate : High; €6,000–€10,000/m², especially for villas

Valbonne

A lively medieval village that stays active year-round thanks to nearby Sophia Antipolis. Valbonne blends Provençal charm with a strong international community.

Pros : Authentic village life, excellent schools, vibrant all year
Cons : High demand for housing
Real Estate : High; €5,500–€9,000/m² for village homes and surrounding villas

Opio

A peaceful, green village surrounded by olive groves and golf courses. Opio is ideal for those who want a more rural feel but still need to be close to Valbonne and Sophia Antipolis.

Pros : Spacious properties, quiet setting
Cons : Car is necessary, few shops
Real Estate : Moderate to high; €5,000–€8,000/m²

Biot

A small, artistic village famous for its glassmakers. Biot offers a quieter lifestyle close to the coast and quick access to Antibes and Nice.

Pros : Creative atmosphere, proximity to beaches
Cons : Limited nightlife and shops
Real Estate : Moderate; €4,500–€7,500/m²

St Paul-de-Vence

One of the most picturesque and famous villages in France, with cobblestone streets, art galleries, and stunning views. Highly sought after by art lovers and second-home buyers.

Pros : Exceptional beauty, rich culture
Cons : Very touristy and expensive
Real Estate : Very high; €8,000–€15,000/m²

Cabris

A lovely perched village above Grasse offering stunning views of the sea and mountains. It’s peaceful, exclusive, and very Provençal in style.

Pros : Beautiful setting, quiet lifestyle
Cons : Few shops, a car is essential
Real Estate : Moderate to high; €5,000–€8,000/m²

Le Rouret

A green, residential village located between Roquefort and Opio. It's peaceful, family-friendly, and close to Sophia Antipolis. Close to Valbonne with restaurants and market, close to golf court.

Pros : Spacious homes, tranquil environment
Cons : Very little "village life," mostly residential

Real Estate : Moderate; €4,500–€7,000/m²

Roquefort-les-Pins

Mostly residential and quiet, Roquefort-les-Pins offers larger plots, villas with pools, and proximity to Valbonne and Nice.

Pros : Privacy, green spaces
Cons : No historic village center, a car is needed
Real Estate : Moderate to high; €5,000–€7,500/m²

Châteauneuf-Grasse

A mix of traditional Provençal charm and modern villas, Châteauneuf is ideally located between Grasse and Valbonne, offering countryside living close to major hubs.

Pros : Authentic charm, stunning countryside views
Cons : Very quiet, you need a car
Real Estate : Moderate to high; €4,500–€7,500/m²

GOOD VALUE FOR MONEY

Grasse

Known worldwide as the perfume capital, Grasse is a larger town with a beautiful historic center, affordable property, and a cooler climate compared to the coast. Beautiful panoramic views from many neighbourhoods.

Pros : Affordable, cultural heritage
Cons : Traffic congestion in the centre, more rough "the Brooklyn of the Côte d'Azur"
Real Estate: Low to moderate; €2,500–€5,000/m²

Grasse Magagnosc

Magagnosc is a small, peaceful area near Grasse, known for its lovely views over the Mediterranean. Great value for those seeking calm close to town. Farmers market and shops close by.

Pros : Affordable, beautiful views
Cons : You need a car
Real Estate : Low to moderate; €3,500–€5,500/m²

Bar-sur-Loup

Bar-sur-loup is a hidden gem with authentic village charm and panoramic views over the Loup valley. Quieter and more affordable than its more famous neighbors like Tourettes-sur-loup.

Pros : Authenticity, stunning scenery
Cons : Limited amenities, you need a car
Real Estate : Moderate; €4,000–€6,000/m²

St Vallier-de-Thiey

Located higher up in the foothills, this village offers cooler summers, a slower pace of life, and very reasonable property prices.

Pros : Affordable, close to nature
Cons : Farther from the coast (45 minutes)
Real Estate : Low to moderate; €2,500–€4,000/m²

Mouans-Sartoux

A lively village with excellent local facilities, a cinema, organic markets, and good train connections. Popular with families and younger residents.

Pros : Good infrastructure, practical location, close to Cannes
Cons : Less scenic than older hilltop villages, no views
Real Estate : Moderate; €4,500–€6,500/m²

Property types in the south of France

julianecremers@gmail.com (Juliane Cremers) — Sun, 27 Apr 2025 12:24:03 GMT

Property types in the region - find your perfect match

Maison de village, Bastide, Mas, Ferme, Californian Villa -advantages and disadvantages

Retire in France

julianecremers@gmail.com (Juliane Cremers) — Sun, 27 Apr 2025 11:36:20 GMT

Coming to France as a pensioner

- Taxing your pension?

- Keeping your primary residence in Germany?

- Health insurance?

- Medical care in the region

- Finding carers and household support

- Planning your inheritance

Retiring in the South of France

Imagine spending your golden years sipping coffee in a sunny village square, strolling through lavender fields, or exploring centuries-old towns — all while enjoying world-class healthcare and a slower, richer pace of life. For many foreigners, retiring in France isn't just a dream — it's a plan. If you're considering making France your retirement destination, here's everything you need to know to get started.

Why Retire on the Côte d’Azur?

The French Riviera is world-famous for its glamorous appeal, but it’s not just for movie stars and billionaires. Many retirees find a comfortable — even affordable — life here, especially outside the famous hotspots.

Highlights include:

300 Days of Sunshine : Mild winters and hot, dry summers create a year-round outdoor lifestyle.
Gorgeous Scenery : Azure waters, mountain backdrops, palm-lined promenades — it’s postcard perfect.
Excellent Healthcare : Top hospitals and clinics abound in Nice, Cannes, and Monaco.
Accessibility : Nice Côte d'Azur International Airport connects you easily to the world.
Provençal Charm : Markets, festivals, wine routes — there's always something to enjoy.

Top Towns for Retirees

Nice

The region’s largest city, Nice is cosmopolitan yet relaxed, offering excellent healthcare, vibrant markets, and a lively expat community. It’s relatively affordable compared to Monaco, with plenty of neighborhoods ranging from bustling downtown to quieter villas in the green hills.

Pros : City amenities, culture, beaches, transport links, you do not necessarily need a car, easy access to airport
Cons : Busy in peak tourist season

Antibes

A charming, historic town with a large English-speaking community, Antibes feels like a blend of old-world France and easy coastal living. It’s famous for its marina, quaint old town, and relaxed vibe.

Pros : Walkable, friendly, more affordable than Cannes or Monaco
Cons : Housing prices are rising

Cannes

Famous for its film festival, Cannes isn’t just about the red carpet. Retirees love the palm-lined boulevards, upscale shopping, and excellent healthcare facilities. Areas like Le Cannet (just inland) offer quieter, less pricey alternatives. But even inside Cannes there are affordable neighbourhoods, let us guide you through the city!

Pros : Glamorous lifestyle and shopping, great restaurants, cultural events
Cons : Expensive, tourist-heavy in summer

Mougins, Valbonne, Biot, Opio, St Paul-de-Vence

If the coast feels too hectic (or expensive), these beautiful villages in the back-country of Cannes and Nice offer a quieter, more traditional Provençal lifestyle. Valbonne and Mougins are very popular not only for their charm, but also for the proximity to the tech hub of Sophia Antipolis and international schools like ICV and the Mougins school, which attract expat families.

Pros : Peaceful, authentic, close to nature, between the mountains and the sea
Cons : You’ll probably need a car

Value for money: Grasse, St-Vallier-de-Thiey

There are areas on the Côte d'Azur that have better value for money than you would think: Grasse, the perfume capital of the world with its rich history and charming old town has many charming neighbourhoods that offer panoramic seaviews (from a distance, but nonetheless very beautiful) and good value for money. Let us show you where! Another option is to go up further north, a 15min drive behind Grasse you find villages like St. Vallier-de-Thiey which have a slightly cooler climate and charming mountain village feel.

Residency and Visas

Non-EU citizens will need a long-stay visa for retirees:

Apply through the French consulate in your home country.
Show proof of sufficient income (pension, savings, etc.).
Have private health insurance initially.

After your first year, you can apply for a Carte de Séjour and eventually qualify for long-term residency.

Lifestyle and Community

The Côte d’Azur isn’t just beautiful — it’s wonderfully active. Here’s what daily life could look like:

Morning market strolls for fresh baguettes and produce.
Afternoon beach walks along the Promenade des Anglais.
Wine tastings in local vineyards.
Day trips to medieval hilltop villages.
Festivals and concerts all year long.

English is widely spoken in tourist zones, but learning French will deeply enrich your experience — and help with everything from doctor visits to forming friendships with locals.

Challenges to Keep in Mind

Crowds in Summer : The coast gets very busy in July and August.
Cost Pressures : Housing and everyday expenses are higher than in rural France.
Paperwork : Like anywhere in France, be ready for bureaucracy — but local expat groups often offer invaluable advice and support.

Final Thoughts

Retiring between Monaco and St. Tropez offers an incredible blend of natural beauty, culture, and quality of life. Whether you dream of elegant coastal living or a quiet villa among olive trees, the South of France welcomes you with open arms — and a glass of rosé.

If you're ready for your next adventure, the Côte d’Azur might just be your perfect place to call home.

À bientôt on the Riviera!

Buying a property as an SCI

julianecremers@gmail.com (Juliane Cremers) — Sun, 27 Apr 2025 11:25:45 GMT

Buying a property as an SCI

- What is an SCI

- What are the advantages?

- What are the disadvantages?

- Who is it suitable for?

- Do I need an accountant, do I have to make a tax return?

- What do I need to consider in the event of inheritance

French property taxes

julianecremers@gmail.com (Juliane Cremers) — Sun, 27 Apr 2025 11:16:32 GMT

The french property taxes

- Taxe foncière

- Taxe d'habitation

- Taxes on capital gains (Plusvalue) and the exemptions

- Property tax on real estate

- Is it possible to avoid property tax?

Buying procedure in detail

julianecremers@gmail.com (Juliane Cremers) — Sun, 27 Apr 2025 10:59:50 GMT

The purchase procedure in France

- The written bid (importance for the seller, reservation, deadlines)

- Conditions precedent in the bid (and later in the purchase contract)

- Preliminary contract and final purchase contract (explanation of the differences to Germany)

- Sign the preliminary contract with a German-speaking notary, with translator (do not sign with the estate agent to avoid misunderstandings)

- Your German-speaking notary can advise you and is available to answer your questions

- Down payment 5-10% (when 5%, when 10%?)

- When must what be paid?

- Payment is always made to the notary's escrow account, not directly to the seller's account

- The estate agent's commission is only due after the final contract and is collected via the notary

- How exactly is the payment made (code)?

- Why do I receive a refund from the notary after the purchase?

- Cooling-off period and loss of the deposit

- What happens if the buyer needs more time (postponement of the deadline)

- What happens if the buyer does not pay the purchase price ?

Making an offer

julianecremers@gmail.com (Juliane Cremers) — Sun, 27 Apr 2025 10:59:47 GMT

Making an offer

negotiations, written offer, reservation

French Real Estate Blog

Wer zahlt die Provision?

This is a subtitle for your new post

Overview of the region, real estate prices

Overview over cities and villages in the regions

﻿

ON THE COAST Nice

Antibes

Cannes

THE BEAUTIFUL VILLAGES Mougins

Valbonne

Opio

Biot

St Paul-de-Vence

Cabris

Le Rouret

Roquefort-les-Pins

Châteauneuf-Grasse

GOOD VALUE FOR MONEY Grasse

Grasse Magagnosc

Bar-sur-Loup

St Vallier-de-Thiey

Mouans-Sartoux

Property types in the south of France

Property types in the region - find your perfect match

Retire in France

Coming to France as a pensioner

Retiring in the South of France

Why Retire on the Côte d’Azur?

Top Towns for Retirees

Nice

Antibes

Cannes

Mougins, Valbonne, Biot, Opio, St Paul-de-Vence

Value for money: Grasse, St-Vallier-de-Thiey

Residency and Visas

Lifestyle and Community

Challenges to Keep in Mind

Final Thoughts

Buying a property as an SCI

Buying a property as an SCI

French property taxes

The french property taxes

Buying procedure in detail

The purchase procedure in France

Making an offer

Making an offer

ON THE COAST

Nice

THE BEAUTIFUL VILLAGES

Mougins

GOOD VALUE FOR MONEY

Grasse