Prime property in the capital retains its global appeal

Trevor Leggett tells us why he opened an office in Paris on the back of booming domestic and international sales

Paris has proven to be the jewel in the crown of a sparkling French property market in recent years. Other global capitals have lost their gloss as their prime markets have stalled.  The reasons that Paris has boomed are clear: Low interest rates, a growing economy and, importantly, domestic reforms introduced under President Macron. Add in the 26 billion euro Grand Paris infrastructure project and the 2024 Olympic games and it is no wonder that global investors have actively been seeking property in Paris.

Come to our office on the beautiful Ile St Louis (4th arrondissement) and you will see the broad mix of buyers that visit us each week - demand is driven by domestic buyers, but you will hear a veritable smorgasbord of languages. We chose this area to open an office because it highlights everything that is good about Paris. In the heart of the action (Notre Dame is a 5 minute stroll across the Pont St Louis), it plays home to wonderful bars, colourful patisseries and bustling restaurants - giving an atmosphere that cannot be replicated in any other city in the world.

Of course, prices vary greatly in each arrondissement, so I really do recommend a confidential discussion with our experts on site. Broadly speaking, you can expect to pay 12-20,000 euros per m2 for prime property in central Paris and, as to be expected, you will pay a premium for outside space or an attractive view.

One of the issues that you will face, if you are looking to buy, is the speed with which good property sells. You would do well to keep in regular touch with our agents but also to be ready and willing to move quickly. Particular hotspots at the moment are areas which offer a village atmosphere, such as Montmartre, the Mouzaia neighbourhood in the 19th or the Cite Fleuri in the 13th. We have also seen an increased demand at the top end for Hotels Particulier. These are not, as the name implies, boutique hotels but rather small mansions, to be found in the heart of the city. Their particular appeal is that they usually offer a garden and outside space, which in these uncertain times is highly attractive. Buyers tell us that if they have to endure a lockdown then a house like this, in a green and relaxing city like Paris, is the best place to be.

See more Parisian properties available here.