February 24th, 2010 | 
Author: British buyers look like they are venturing out there again – investing in overseas property in France. More than 70 per cent of Knight Frank’s enquiries for France so far this year have been from British people, with the greatest interest in the Dordogne, as well as areas in the South, South west, and the Alps.
Paul Humphreys, from Knight Frank’s French department commented on the trend, saying: “It’s a good time to buy. French property prices have fallen and there’s a nice supply of good-quality properties at the right price on the market, in places we’ve always had love affairs with, such as Gascony and the Dordogne.”
As well as the country’s aesthetically pleasing appeals, the vineyards and châteaux, the food, culture and countryside, France also rates highly on practical points too. Its proximity, which good for those who hate flying or airports, and prefer to drive or take the train. For those who relish flying, there is an international appeal- a bonus for holiday lets. The weather is hot and sunny and a weakening Euro are all factors of advantage towards French holidays.
The Dordogne is particularly attractive to British families and couples, as it boasts a relaxed setting, with rivers, market towns and no hustle or bustle. Harris Raphael from Pioneer France says: “The Dordogne is as the British imagine the countryside should be. We’ve seen an increase in enquiries and sales since the end of late 2009, mainly families with children looking for a holiday home and couples in their fifties thinking of retirement in a few years.”
Knight Frank says they are hearing more from commuters seeking a family home in France, where the husband can fly back from Bergerac or Bordeaux airports to an office in London.
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