Positive economic growth presents France as ‘safe haven’ for property buyers
Preliminary data from the INSEE national statistics office has revealed that France’s GDP grew by 0.2% in the fourth quarter, bringing economic growth for 2011 as a whole to 1.7%, in line with government predictions.
Aided by a stronger than expected rise in business investment and continued consumer spend, France has bucked the trend experienced by many other euro zone nations with a minimum 0.5% growth forecast by the French Prime Minster for 2012.
Danny Silver, expert in French real estate and MD of The Villages Group, comments,
“With a positive economic position, the euro zone´s second largest economy looks set to avoid a recession this year meaning that France’s perception of stability and a ‘safe haven’ for property buyers will remain strong.
“Indeed, many of us dream of escaping to France to enjoy a relaxed yet active lifestyle in a country that boasts a wonderful climate and culture. For those entering their third age especially, France is often the ideal destination which is why we have developed active living Villages for the over 50’s, providing services and amenities that encourage an active, happy and healthy lifestyle focussed around a strong community of like-minded individuals.”
Of course no matter how great the appeals of France may be, in the current economic climate, the decision whether to move often comes down to cost alone. Carrying out extensive client research, The Villages Group surveyed 3,000 people in the 50+ bracket and discovered that 91% of those questioned wanted to know how much it costs to live at a Village, focussing particularly on maintenance costs which quite often “start low and after a few years, blow through the roof” according to Silver.
As well as this, 76% wanted to know how much it would cost to own a home in one of the Villages. Silver comments: “The reason for this is obvious – who wants to have a 50+ lifestyle with a mortgage hanging over their head or having to pay increasing rentals? We believe the solution to this is a Syndicate – the modern way to save on ownership costs and keep maintenance down. Our legal team of Notaires and Lawyers have found the solution in France that works in compliance with the very strict French legal system – which is undisputedly the safest country in the world to own property with under 0.3% litigation.”
At The Villages, situated in three stunning French communities in Bordeaux/ Perigord, Canal du Midi and Provence, residents become a member of the entire village with ownership of a house of their choice, including all amenities. In fact, the syndicate style programme helps keep prices at least 30% lower than similar properties with self-financing saving a minimum 12% bank interest as well as a 10% reduction in builder’s profits.
As well as this, running costs are kept to a minimum as members own The Village, hotel, restaurants and sauna all of which are open to the public and all profits are set against maintenance fees thus keeping running costs to a minimum. Investment into The Villages is from a very affordable €165,000.
For more information please contact The Villages Group on + 33 1 4007 8625, email villages@pdfparis.com or visit www.thevillagesgroup.com