New data coming in for 2008 and 2009 shows that despite the difficult current climate, the French property market is continuing to strengthen under Sarkozy’s “real estate investor-friendly” Governance.

Sarkozy’s laws which support broader home ownership have been a major driver. From the beginning of 2009, France has been able to offer its homeowners zero-interest loans of up to €30,000. The loi Bouvard pertaining to tourism property extends the original Loi Scellier (on unfurnished property) to sale and leasebacks so that residents can offset 25% of the cost of buying a residential property against their personal income tax up to a maximum of €75,000 on a €300,000 property.  Read more... (441 words, estimated 1:46 mins reading time)

Many people, especially Brits, would love to own a second home in France – the income tax is significantly lower for those living on pensions and investment income. However with the Euro increasing in strength against the pound and the global financial troubles, some have realised that owning a second home or retiring to France may not be a feasible idea.

However if you are prepared to buy in France in some of the lesser known regions and towns, there are plenty of French property bargains to be had.  Read more... (267 words, estimated 1:04 mins reading time)