Buying a new-build apartment in the South of France is of course a dream come true. The purchase is also safe and you have the best possible quality in terms of construction and finishing. Since 2012, there have been strict standards for the construction and finishing of new construction. With the environment and energy saving as a starting point, there are strict certificates that are issued if a construction company delivers in accordance with this standard. Energy-efficient but also the soundproofing of the apartments and the finishing must meet the highest standards in the field of the French authorities.
Six reasons to buy a new-build apartment on the Côte d’Azur
France is leading the way with these certificates, such as RT 2012. This Thermal Regulation 2012 (which you often find under the abbreviation RT 2012) was drawn up to limit the energy consumption of new homes. This follows previous regulations (RT 1974, RT 1988, RT 2000 or RT 2005 …). The RE2020 (Environmental Regulation 2020) aims for lower energy consumption and CO2 pollution during construction. The NF Habitat is a quality guarantee on the following points: Quality of life for residents, Respect for delivery deadlines, Control of construction costs, and Respect for the environment.
Other standards must also be observed for new construction, such as the acoustic regulations that require new goods to be insulated against external noise by at least 30 dB. The accessibility standard for people with disabilities must also be taken into account in all buildings and rental properties. The home must be accessible to all types of disabilities, both in the common areas and in the accommodation. For you as a buyer, these standards are additional guarantees for a new-build apartment or villa that meets the highest standards.
Here are the six main reasons to buy a new-build apartment on the French Riviera
First choice in new construction
New-build projects on the Cote d’Azur are put on pre-sale roughly two years before delivery. During this period, you have the first choice. The penthouse is always popular, although you should consider a higher price than a similar apartment below. The price difference can sometimes be as much as 40% because of the absolute exclusivity. And, of course, the view and the peace.
Renovate to your taste
Once you have chosen a newly built apartment, you can change the layout before construction starts. You can replace the standard bath with an Italian walk-in shower, or you would rather create a natural master bedroom and quote for part of another room. If construction is not yet underway, you can make your wishes known via a TMA form (Travaux Modificatifs Acquéreurs) or the buyer’s modified work. If you remain within reason, the changes are usually free of charge or for a small fee.
Spread payments
If you decide to buy a new-build apartment in the French Riviera, you do not have to pay immediately. You pay 5% when making the reservation and 25% when signing the purchase contract. You will only be invited to the notary when all documents are complete; this is on average 4-8 months later (depending on how quickly you have booked).
From that moment on, the payment schedule will come into effect with 10 or 15% tranches. Just so you know – the project developer and the notary will send you a timely reminder to arrange the payment. The total construction will take a maximum of two years, although you must consider delays that may occur due to force majeure, such as heavy storms and rainfall. You can read more about the purchasing process for new construction in the South of France here.
Tiles and sanitary ware of your choice
A newly built apartment on the Cote d’Azur has been delivered completely, with beautiful tiles and high-quality sanitary ware for the bathroom. One year before delivery, you are invited to come and view the basic collection in a special showroom. You can always choose other tiles if this does not match your taste.
The project developer will then buy them; you only pay the price difference between the proposed and desired tiles. The same applies to sanitary ware; Hans Grohe is usually used, but that is also possible if you want another brand.
Extensive guarantee
New construction in the Côte d’Azur means buying without risk. The architect is an important player; every step in the construction progress is carefully checked by him/her and signed off upon approval. After the architect’s approval, the project developer will only ask you for a subsequent payment. Every construction project we offer falls under the VEFA scheme; these projects come with a delivery guarantee. Should the construction company or project developer go bankrupt, the project and your apartment will still be completed and delivered following the agreements.
Once you have the key in your hands, you have a full year on everything that is loose and fixed. A leaking tap, a squeaking door, noise pollution due to an acoustic leak? It is all covered by the guarantee. In the second year, you still have a full year’s guarantee, but then on all moving parts such as windows, doors and locks. The following eight years you have a guarantee on the construction, so cracks in walls, balconies, etc. This is all repaired free of charge. An Owners’ Association is also set up for every new-build home; this also takes out a building insurance for the entire building. Should damage occur to the swimming pool (if present) or the garage, you are insured for this via the monthly contribution service costs.
Price increase in value
Those who buy a new-build apartment in the South of France early will be rewarded for it later. Because before the building is built, you can only rely on the brochure and your location knowledge. But once the building is there in all its glory, the value of your apartment will immediately increase by at least 10%. That is always nice to know.
It is not without reason that many speculators buy multiple apartments in a favourably located new construction project to sell them furnished after completion. In the latter case, the profit margin is even higher. But of course, you do not want to sell your new construction apartment on the Cote d’Azur. You will enjoy your second home in the sun without any worries!
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