Nestled in the enchanting Southwest of France lies the Pyrénées-Atlantiques, a region beloved by expats for its breathtaking beaches, world-class ski slopes, and an abundance of delectable local produce. Stretching across a vast area, we had the pleasure of connecting with Sophie, a passionate property expert who intimately knows this captivating region. Sophie shares her wealth of knowledge, shedding light on the hidden gems, cultural treasures, and captivating landscapes that define the Pyrénées-Atlantiques.
Whether you yearn to explore the region’s picturesque beaches, embark on thrilling adventures in nearby ski resorts, or savour the gastronomic delights nurtured by the local terroir, Sophie’s expertise is invaluable. With her personalised touch, she ensures that your experience in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques is tailored to your desires, creating unforgettable memories.
To immerse yourself in the wonders of the Pyrénées-Atlantiques, do not hesitate to reach out to Sophie. You can visit her website at www.sophiefolley.com or contact her directly via email at [email protected]. With her unwavering passion and dedication, Sophie will guide you to discover the true essence of this remarkable region and assist you in crafting an extraordinary journey.
What makes Pyrénées-Atlantiques so attractive for expats?
Pyrénées-Atlantiques, located in the southwestern part of France, offers several attractions that make it attractive for expats:
- Accessibility: The region is well-connected with airports such as Biarritz and Lourdes, providing convenient travel options, particularly for those coming from the UK. Additionally, major airports like Toulouse, Bordeaux, and Bilbao are accessible for those traveling from further afield.
- Outdoor Activities: Pyrénées-Atlantiques boasts ski slopes within a reasonable distance, with opportunities for winter sports just an hour and a quarter away. The region also offers easy access to beautiful beaches, with the nearest beach only 45 minutes away.
- Culinary Delights: One of the highlights of the region is its culinary scene. The proximity to San Sebastien, a renowned culinary mecca, allows residents to indulge in exquisite dining experiences within just an hour and a half. The area is known for its strong duck production and la blonde d’Aquitaine, which is rated as the best beef in the country. For meat lovers, there is a wide array of famous restaurants to enjoy.
- Wine Culture: Pyrénées-Atlantiques offers a diverse wine culture. The region is known for its Irouleguy wines, which are produced in the Pays Basques area. Additionally, nearby Bordeaux is famous for its world-class wines. The Bearn region, within Pyrénées-Atlantiques, is home to Domaine Guilhemas Rouge, contributing to the rich wine heritage of the area.
- Festivals: The region of Nouvelle Aquitaine, which includes Pyrénées-Atlantiques, hosts vibrant festivals. Ferias, such as those in Bayonne and Dax, are popular and run throughout the summer. These festivals celebrate the local culture, traditions, and include lively events and activities.
Overall, Pyrénées-Atlantiques offers a combination of natural beauty, culinary delights, access to cultural hotspots, and a vibrant festival scene, making it an attractive destination for expats seeking a well-rounded lifestyle experience.
Sophie’s views on the property market
Why are people selling?
The decision to sell property and leave a country is often a deeply personal and emotional one. While there may be various reasons why people choose to sell their properties and leave Pyrénées-Atlantiques, one significant factor is the restrictions on the length of stay for non-EU residents.
The 90-day rule, which limits the amount of time non-EU residents can stay in France without a specific visa or residency permit, can pose challenges for property owners who wish to spend more time in their homes. This restriction can prevent them from fully enjoying their properties and the lifestyle they have built over the years. For some property owners who have had their homes in Pyrénées-Atlantiques for a long time, this limitation on their ability to stay can be particularly disheartening, leading them to consider selling.
However, despite some property owners deciding to sell and return to the UK due to these challenges, there are still many British buyers, as well as buyers from other English-speaking nationalities, who are attracted to Pyrénées-Atlantiques and have a love affair with France. The region’s quality of life, natural beauty, culinary delights, and cultural experiences continue to appeal to individuals and families seeking a new home and lifestyle. Some are even willing to navigate the necessary bureaucratic processes and requirements to obtain visas and eventually residency to live in the region they love.
How are property prices being impacted?
The property market in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques region has seen fluctuations over the years. Initially, there was a period of price growth fueled by British buyers in the early 2000s, taking advantage of favorable exchange rates. This led to an increase in property prices. However, the financial crisis of 2008 caused prices to level off and eventually decline for about seven years, with a decrease of around 30% in property values.
After this period, the market started to recover, but then the COVID-19 pandemic had an impact. Following the end of the first confinement in May 2020, there was a surge in demand as city dwellers, particularly from Paris, and coastal areas sought properties in the countryside due to the shift towards remote work. This trend created a strong market for a few years, with high demand and limited supply.
As a result, property prices in the region have risen significantly, reaching levels higher than in 2007. The market has been particularly active in thermal spa towns like Salies-de-Béarn, where the recent investment in the thermal spa has attracted investors and increased the demand for apartments for those seeking treatments and cures prescribed by doctors. The plan to increase the number of prescribed treatments per year in Salies-de-Béarn has driven investors to buy properties to accommodate the influx of visitors.
However, the limited availability of properties for sale has become a challenge for estate agents in the area. The high demand and low inventory have pushed prices up, making it difficult for buyers to find suitable properties at affordable prices. It’s worth noting that market conditions can change over time, and it’s essential for potential buyers to stay informed about the current state of the property market and seek the guidance of a reliable real estate agent who can provide up-to-date information and assist in navigating the market.
Mistakes to avoid as an expat considering the region
When it comes to buying property in France, there are several mistakes that people can make. Here are a few common ones:
- Lack of research and information: France has a reputation for bureaucracy and red tape, so it’s important for buyers to be well-informed about the legal and administrative requirements involved in purchasing a property. Using online resources and websites dedicated to informing buyers about the process can be helpful.
- Not building a good relationship with an agent: Finding a reliable and trustworthy real estate agent who understands your needs and communicates effectively is crucial. A good agent can provide valuable guidance and ensure that you have all the necessary information about the property, including any permits or permissions required for renovations or additions.
- Failing to consider local regulations: When buying a property that requires renovations or adding amenities like a pool, it’s important to understand and comply with local regulations. Declarations to the local town hall may be necessary, and it’s essential to include these details in the contract to avoid disappointment later on.
- Overreliance on online searches: While browsing properties online can give you an idea of what’s available, it’s essential to visit the area in person to get a real sense of the location and lifestyle it offers. This allows you to assess factors like proximity to amenities, shops, and bars, which can significantly impact your overall experience.
- Neglecting the importance of location: The location of a property is often more important than the house itself. You can change and modify a house, but you can’t change its location. Consider the kind of lifestyle you desire and the amenities you want to have within reach. This will help narrow down your search and save time.
- Underestimating ongoing costs: Owning a property comes with ongoing maintenance and upkeep costs. Buyers should consider additional expenses like cleaning, garden maintenance, and pool upkeep when calculating their budget.
Raising a family in France
Raising a family in France, particularly in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques region, offers a slower pace of life compared to the UK. This can be seen as a positive aspect for those seeking a more relaxed and community-oriented lifestyle. The region still maintains a strong sense of community and family values, with regular gatherings and celebrations, such as Sunday lunches and special occasions like Mother’s Day and Grandmother’s Day.
The slower pace of life allows families to enjoy a closer connection with nature and outdoor activities. For example, having access to amenities for children can be more readily available in rural areas. The region’s countryside charm and strong community ties contribute to a sense of nostalgia, resembling what life might have been like in the UK 20 years ago.
However, it’s important to note that administrative processes in France can be more complex and time-consuming compared to the UK. Dealing with bureaucracy and navigating administrative tasks can be challenging, but it is part of the local charm and something that residents need to adapt to. Additionally, the tradition of businesses closing between 12 pm and 2 pm for lunch can require some adjustment to daily planning and routines.
Overall, families choosing to raise children in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques region can benefit from a more laid-back lifestyle, a sense of community, and the opportunity to immerse themselves in a natural and family-oriented environment.
Making the expat dream happen: Adaptability is key!
Sophie’s journey showcases the importance of adaptability as an expat and the need to focus on priorities. She made the decision to make drastic changes to her life, leaving behind her career selling sails in Southampton, UK, and relocating to France to pursue a new path. Utilising the French language skills she had acquired in school, she embarked on a venture that initially involved running a Bread and Breakfast alongside a bilingual property management business. However, due to challenges such as lack of banking support and extensive administrative work in France, this plan didn’t pan out as expected.
Undeterred, Sophie shifted gears and ventured into the estate agency world, where she thrived. This demonstrates her flexibility and willingness to adapt to new circumstances, finding success in an alternative career path. By recognising the need to adjust her plans and pursue a different opportunity, she was able to overcome obstacles and move forward.
Sophie strategically chose the Southwest of France as her base, considering the accessibility for her friends and family. Being situated between Biarritz and Lourdes, which have convenient and affordable Ryanair flights to and from the UK, provided her with a sense of connection and support. This geographical location allowed her to take the risk of relocating without feeling completely isolated or detached from her loved ones.
Thinking about moving to France?
Whether you’re planning to move or you’re already living in France, listen to real life stories on our Just Jump podcast or read our useful blog posts to make your relocation a success!
