Buying property in the Dordogne
The Dordogne is a department in inland southwest France, within Nouvelle-Aquitaine. Famous for its picturesque villages, rivers, rolling hills, bastides, castles and chateaux, it’s long been a magnet for international buyers, with 6% of its properties owned by foreign non-residents.
Named after the river that runs through it, the rural department offers a unique blend of beauty and has ten of les plus beaux villages de France.
The Dordogne’s prefecture is in Périgueux, a town of around 30,000. The only other large-ish town in the department is Bergerac. Most buyers look to the villages.
Why buy a home in the Dordogne?
The Dordogne offers all the pleasures of life in France but with the safety net of a vibrant expat community.
It’s well-suited for those seeking a peaceful retreat or a place to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, canoeing and cycling.
Perigueux has all the usual modern amenities, plus historical sites, including Roman ruins. It’s an ideal location for those seeking a more urban environment while remaining close to the countryside.
There are three other subprefectures in the Dordogne: Bergerac, Nontron and Sarlat-la-Caneda. Bergerac is nestled on the banks of the Dordogne River. Its old town boasts charming half-timbered houses that date back to medieval times. It is also known for wine production. Bergerac’s location by the river provides opportunities for boating and fishing, while the surrounding countryside is perfect for hiking and cycling.
Sarlat, being a popular tourist destination known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and local markets, commands higher property prices. The area is attractive to buyers looking for properties with historical significance or potential for holiday rentals.
In contrast, the Périgord Nontronnais area, which is more rural and less frequented by tourists, offers more affordable property options. This could be an ideal choice for those seeking a quieter lifestyle, more land for their budget or looking to renovate a bargain property.
The Dordogne River in Corrèze, Limousin I Image: Peter Adams Photography via Shutterstock
What can you buy for your money in the Dordogne?
Property for sale in the Dordogne covers everything from rustic farmhouses in need of a little TLC to elegant chateaux just crying out for their next owner.
Property prices in the Dordogne region can vary significantly depending on the subprefecture and the specific characteristics of the property.
The average house price in the Dordogne is around €2,200 per square metre, with sharp increases in recent years.. However, this average encompasses a wide range, with prices as high as €4,000 per square metre in sought-after areas like Sarlat in the south, and as low as €1,000 per square meter in the Périgord Nontronnais in the north.
Properties that are renovated but retail original features or offer additional land or amenities will be priced higher than the average.
For those interested in the most current and detailed information on property prices in the Dordogne’s subprefectures, it would be beneficial to consult with local real estate agents or visit dedicated property websites that provide listings and market insights. These resources can offer a more personalised analysis based on your specific criteria and the latest market trends.
Steps to buying property in the Dordogne
- Define your criteria: Determine what you’re looking for in terms of property type, location, budget and must-have features.
- Research: Use online resources, visit local real estate agencies and explore the area to find properties that match your criteria. Book your place at the Your Overseas Home Virtual Event.
- Speak to a currency expert: Moving exchange rates is a risk in international property purchases, so discuss managing that risk with a forward contract that fixes your exchange rate.
- Legal considerations: Familiarise yourself with the French property buying process, including the role of the notaire, who handles the legal aspects of the sale. Contact an independent lawyer at this stage.
- Financing: Investigate mortgage options if required. French banks offer loans to non-residents, but it’s advisable to compare rates and terms.
- Book your viewing/scouting trip: Download the guide, contact estate agents anf book your tickets.
- Making an offer: Once you find a property you like, you can make an offer. If accepted, you’ll sign a preliminary contract (compromis de vente or a promesse de vente) and pay a deposit.
- Completion: The final sale is completed when the acte de vente is signed at the notaire’s office, and the balance of the purchase price is paid.
Costs of buying property in the Dordogne
When buying property in Dordogne or wider France, the buyer is responsible for notaire fees, which average 7-8% of the property price (or 2-3% for new homes) and will have to also consider estate agent fees (although often included in the property price) and homeowner taxes.
For more detailed information and listings, visit Propertyguides.com/france, where you can find a wealth of resources to assist you in your property search and purchase in the Dordogne.
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