Buying property in Normandy
Normandy is a region on the northern coast of France, with 650 kilometres of seafront on the English Channel/La Manche.
Being so close to the south of England, the two regions have had a long relationship – sometimes bloody (1066) and sometimes close (1944) – which continues today in peaceful ferry crossings.
Known for its breathtaking coastal views and historic significance, the region is also popular with French property buyers – especially Parisians. Their influence has been felt in the art world – with impressionism starting on Normandy’s sunlit beaches – as well as in resort towns like Étretat, Honfleur and Deauville.
For those buying property in Normandy, learn about the current market, property trends and costs before you make an offer.
Why buy property in Normandy?
Normandy offers all the benefits of a beautiful coastline, not unlike southern England, but with the French lifestyle. That means the quality of food, village markets, attractive stone cottages with shutters and a well-protected countryside. On beaches here, you will have lifeguards, floating platforms to swim to and simply a more thought-out and attractive tourist offering.
For those seeking a coastal lifestyle, consider Deauville, a glamourous seaside resort celebrated for its annual film festival.
The port city of Cherbourg is famous for its maritime history, or discover the tranquil beauty of Bagnoles de l’Orne, a charming spa town nestled in the heart of Normandy. And let’s not forget the iconic Mont Saint-Michel and the historic D-Day landing beaches that add a touch of grandeur to the region’s coastline.
If you prefer the tranquillity of the countryside, the serene landscapes of Suisse Normande and the apple orchards of Pays d’Auge offer idyllic retreats. Living in Normandy means being close to nature, whether you’re exploring the cliffs of Étretat, enjoying a countryside walk or having a picnic by the Seine River.
The regional capital is Rouen, an exciting city known for its Gothic cathedral and connection to Joan of Arc. Strolling through the old town truly feels like a step back in time, where you can imagine Madame Bovary behaving scandalously in her carriage.
Port of Hornfleur, Normandy
What can you buy for your money in Normandy?
Your property options in Normandy are essentially coast, countryside or city.
The coast offers seaside resort property which can be rather busy in summer and chilly in winter, but is wonderfully accessible from the UK. Properties around Channel ports such as Dieppe are popular weekend boltholes for those who want the French lifestyle without flying. They cost from around €150,000.
In the countryside in Normandy, you will find a variety of traditional stone homes, often with large gardens and land. In more rural areas like Beuvron-en-Auge and Barfleur, you can expect to find a range of charming cottages and bungalows, often at reasonable prices, making them ideal for holiday homes or retirement.
Property prices in Normandy vary across its five departments. For instance, Calvados, which includes the popular coastal towns of Deauville and Honfleur, tends to have higher property prices, with an average house price of around €200,000. More rural departments like Orne offer more affordable options, with average house prices around €100,000.
The average price per square metre in Normandy towns is €2,939, whereas it drops to €1,541 in the countryside. Coastal properties demand higher prices, with an average of €3,247 per m².
Steps to buying property in Normandy
- 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 are 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 an 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 Normandy
When buying property in the Normandy 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 agency fees (although often included in the property price) and taxes.
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