Searching for Property in Var, France

If you are considering investing in Provence property, you would be well advised to concentrate your search on its southernmost department, le Var.

Le Var is considered to be the gateway to not only the Cote d’Azur, but also the Provence Alpes, including the greater part of the former within its borders. It is a largely mountainous region and with more than 55% of its area covered by forest, it is the second most verdant department in all of France.

Le Var is also a very beautiful region and as a consequence it is extremely popular with hikers. Amongst its principal attractions is the Canyon du Verdon, which at a length of 25km, and a depth reaching a staggering 700m, is the second largest canyon in the world.

For those who revel in more leisurely pursuits, there are of course the famous beaches of the Cote d’Azur to enjoy. If swimming and water-sports are your thing, you needn’t confide yourself to the coast as the interior offers a number of rivers and crystal clear mountain lakes.

It is largely as a result of its superb natural landscapes that Var continues to enjoy a sustained popularity amongst both tourists and property investors alike. However, the consequence of such popularity has seen the average price of property in Var, rise to well above the French national average.

It is worth noting, however, that the average price of properties in Var has been skewed by the inflated prices of properties within the more exclusive resorts of the Cote’ d’Azur. Included amongst these is Saint Tropez where luxury property is amongst the most expensive in Provence, if not France.

For those whose budget does not stretch to luxury property, Var offers plenty of alternatives. Although properties in Toulon, the capital city of Var, are relatively expensive for the region, they nevertheless offer great value for money when compared to similar properties in towns such as Saint Tropez.

If you are looking for less expensive property for sale in Var, then you should concentrate your search inland. Not only does the Var interior offer properties that are far more affordable than those of the coast, but it also offers respite from the international masses that gather there. If you invest in inland Var property, you will find that you enjoy a far more authentically Provencal living experience.

You will find a great range of properties for sale in the interior of Var, including converted farmhouse, village homes, and maison de maitres. Although there are a few purpose built developments, many of which include superb amenities such as swimming pools and golf clubs, these are few and far between as a result of the strict planning restrictions that operate in the area.

Despite the relatively high average cost of properties in Var, they nevertheless represent some of the best real estate (immobilier) investment opportunities in all of Provence. The fact that the region is so popular with tourists means that the rental market is extremely strong and if you are intending to buy a holiday home, then you should give serious consideration to renting it out during your absences.