Key Investor Benefits - France

• Leaseback investments are widely available, taking the hassle out of renting the property and providing a guaranteed income.
• 100% Mortgages are available on some properties in France, only a small reservation fee is require, therefore the investment does not tie up a lot of capital.
• Purchaser incentives, currently there tend to be a variety of purchase incentives laid on by the developers such as cash backs, notary fees paid, VAT paid by the developer etc.
• Proximity to the UK

Why Invest – France

France is one of the countries a lot of investors feel comfortable purchasing properties in, it has a stable economy and a long history of foreigners buying holiday and investment properties. This is mainly due to it close proximity to the UK.

The fact that there are a good range of leaseback properties offers investors a good selection and the comfort factor that they will receive a guaranteed income over a long period, without the hassle of arranging the rental of the property. Lease backs usually also allow the owner a period of time every year which they can use the property themselves therefore having the benefit of using the property as a holiday home as well as an investment.

100% mortgages are available in France which makes purchasing a property in France an ideal investment opportunity as not a great deal of capital is required. There also tends to be many other incentives for purchasing, some developments offer 6% notary fee paid, cash backs, VAT paid for by the developer all adding to the appeal of the investment

Area Info - France

Charentes Maritime:

During its history, Charente-Maritime has inherited an exceptionally rich and varied maritime heritage, lovingly maintained and displayed by individuals, associations and organisations. The Charente coastline and the surrounding islands offer a range of diverse and impressive fortifications and exceptional lighthouses.

Local Economy: There is a wide range of businesses to visit relating to; food and drink, agriculture and regional produce; wines, pineau, Cognac and beers; the sea; art; wood; the environment; industry and production, and finally building and quarrying. These tours provide the opportunity to discover the dynamism and eclecticism of the economic fabric of Charente-Maritime. The department of Charente-Maritime offers everything necessary for the development of business tourism. There are a total of four conference centres in Charente-Maritime; in La Rochelle, Rochefort, Royal and Saintes.

Aqua Tourism: The presence of the Atlantic Ocean in the Charentes-Maritime is a real blessing. Besides its beauty, the splendour of its beaches and the many water activities it provides for the ocean offers a multitude of benefits, both in terms of health and well-being. The department is proud of its thalassotherapy, spa and Balneo fitness centres, making it a privileged destination for relaxation and outstanding lifestyle.

Airport Facilities: The international Airport of La Rochelle and Isle de Re was used by 220,000 passengers in 2007 and offers more than 30 destinations in France and abroad. The Airport of Rochefort/St Agnant is at the disposal of industrialist with flights to Paris over the summer period. The Tourism Airport of Courcon d’Aunis/Vallee d’Aulnes accepts small private aircrafts and micro lights all year round.

International Railways Facilities: The International Terminal of St Pancras in London by Eurostar takes about 2 hours 20 mins to Gare Du Nord in Central Paris. A high speed train TGV is available from Paris to La Rochelle or Surgere and will take again no more than 2 hours 20 mins.
Harbour Facilities: The trade harbour of La Rochelle, the only deep water harbour of the Atlantic Coast, is the 7th French harbour and the 1st harbour of National interest. The trade harbour of La Rochelle/Rochefort and Tonnay Charentes welcome cruise liners all year round (with more than 50,000 passengers per year) The Marina of La Rochelle, the 1st harbour of the Atlantic Coast, Rochefort, Fouras and others allow more than 4500 moorings.

Poitou Charentes

THE REGION: Poitou Charentes is situated between the Dordogne and Loire Valley. The countryside is beautiful and the villages are very typical, many originating from the medieval times with stone and half-timbered houses. In the southern part of the region villas, small Chateaux and Vineyards sweep the countryside, especially around Cognac, Saintes and Angouleme. Poitiers in the north is a historical city containing interesting architecture such as the 14th century Baptistery of St John cathedral, Roman baths and amphitheatres. Southeast of Poitiers on the coast are the two main beach resorts of La Rochelle and Royan with safe, sandy beaches. La Rochelle is reputedly the most attractive and unspoilt seaside town in France due to its prime location and 17th century town centre. Moored up on its harbour in the vieux port is a grand assembly of pleasure boats and seafood restaurants are nearby. Just off the coast near the mainland resort of Royan are a number of gorgeous little islands with easy accessibility and during the summer are reputedly some of the sunniest places in France. Other cities of note nearby are Parthenay, Niort, Loudon and Chatellerault. If you are a keen golfer there are also other courses in the area.

THE CLIMATE: The region is known for its microclimate: the warm Gulf Stream provides a sea climate which guarantees very pleasant temperatures and many hours of sunshine.
 

France Facts at a glance

Area (not including overseas territories): 547,030 sq km (land: 545,630 sq km; water: 1,400 sq km)
Population: 63.4 million
Capital City: Paris
Language(s): French
Religion(s): Roman Catholic 90%, Muslim (primarily North African) 8%, Protestants 2%, Jewish 1%, Unaffiliated 4%
Currency: Euro

ECONOMY
Basic economic facts (2007 figures)
GDP: €1.948 Trillion
Annual Growth: 0.7%
Inflation: 2.8%
Major Industries: Aerospace, automotive, pharmaceuticals, industrial machinery, food and drink, tourism
Major trading partners: US and European markets
 

www.fco.gov.uk