Purchasing a property on the Côte d’Azur is a dream for many, offering a chance to own a piece of the French Riviera’s iconic landscape. From luxurious villas in Cannes to modern apartments in Nice, the region’s real estate market is both prestigious and stable, making it an excellent choice for second homes or investments.
At Living on the Côte d’Azur, we simplify the buying process for international clients, providing personalized support from property selection to final contracts. Our team of second-home advisors, mortgage experts, and legal specialists ensures a seamless experience, even for non-EU buyers navigating visa requirements. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of buying your dream property in South France, ensuring confidence and clarity at every stage.
Step 1: Define Your Needs
The first step in buying a property on the Côte d’Azur is identifying your goals. Are you seeking a vacation home, a retirement retreat, or an investment property? The region offers diverse options: sea-view villas in Saint-Tropez, modern apartments in Nice, or renovation projects in Antibes.
Consider your preferred location—cosmopolitan Cannes, historic Antibes, or serene Mougins—and property features like pools, terraces, or proximity to the coast. Our second-home advisors work closely with you to understand your lifestyle and budget, curating a list of properties that match your vision. Whether you prioritize luxury, privacy, or rental potential, we ensure your search is tailored to your unique needs, saving you time and effort.
Step 2: Financing and Budget
Setting a realistic budget is crucial. Property prices on the Côte d’Azur vary widely—apartments in Nice start around €400,000, while Cannes villas often exceed €2 million. Factor in additional costs, including notary fees (7-8% of the purchase price), property taxes, and maintenance. For international buyers, securing a mortgage in France is possible, though requirements are stricter for non-residents.
French banks typically offer 70% loan-to-value ratios, with interest rates around 2-2.5% in 2025. Our mortgage experts can connect you with trusted lenders and guide you through the application process, ensuring competitive terms. We also advise on currency exchange for non-Eurozone buyers to minimize costs.
Step 3: Property Search
Our curated listings make finding your ideal property effortless. Browse our website for detailed descriptions, professional photos, and 360° virtual tours of villas, apartments, and building plots across the Côte d’Azur. Our team pre-selects properties based on your criteria, arranging private viewings in person or virtually.
For example, a sea-view villa in Antibes might offer four bedrooms and a pool for €1.5 million, while a Croisette apartment in Cannes could be €1 million with marina views. We leverage our local expertise to highlight hidden gems and negotiate the best deals, ensuring you find a property that aligns with your dreams and budget.
If you make us your buyer agent and we work exclusively together as a team, we can also access the off-market properties for you.
Step 4: Offer and Negotiation
Once you’ve found the perfect property, we guide you through making an offer. In France, offers are typically submitted in writing, and our team advises on a competitive yet fair price based on market trends. If accepted, a preliminary contract (compromis de vente) is signed, requiring a 5-10% deposit. This contract outlines conditions, such as financing approval, and includes a 10-day cooling-off period for buyers. Our advisors handle negotiations and ensure all terms are clear, protecting your interests throughout the process.
Step 5: Notary and Closing
The final step involves working with a French notary, a neutral legal professional who oversees the transaction. The notary verifies the property’s title, conducts searches (e.g., for liens), and prepares the final deed (acte de vente). You’ll need to provide documents like a passport, proof of funds, and, for non-EU buyers, a visa if staying over 90 days. Closing typically occurs 2-3 months after the preliminary contract, with notary fees (7-8%) and taxes due at signing. Our team coordinates with the notary, ensuring a smooth transfer of ownership and addressing any last-minute concerns.
Non-EU Buyer Tips
Non-EU buyers, such as those from the UK or US, must consider visa requirements for stays over 90 days. Options include the Long-Stay Visa (for extended stays) or the Talent Passport (for investors or professionals). Unlike some countries, property ownership in France doesn’t grant residency, but our relocation experts can guide you through visa applications. We also advise on tax implications, such as wealth tax for high-value properties, to ensure compliance and financial planning.
Ready to own a piece of the Côte d’Azur? Contact our second-home advisors to start your property search or sign up for our personalized newsletter for the latest listings. With our expertise, your dream home in South France is within reach. Let us guide you through every step of the buying process, from selection to closing, for a seamless experience.
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