Buying property in the Var
The Var is a department in Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, found where Provence meets the Côte d’Azur.
Located in southeastern France, the Var has a long stretch of Mediterranean coast including the glamorous resort of St Tropez. Its major city is Toulon, which has a large naval base.
Var is a beautiful part of the world, where the mountains meet the Mediterranean and the sun always seems to be shining.
Why buy property in the Var?
The Var offers natural beauty and a coastal lifestyle that can be either tranquil or as exciting and adventurous as you like.
The luxury property market attracts affluent buyers from all over the world, so the area caters to diverse tastes, but it’s less busy than the Riviera property further west, which includes Nice and Cannes.
In terms of demographics, over 35% of residents in the Var are retired and just under half are in a couple without children.
The Var is popular with those seeking a modern, luxurious home in a coastal, trendy location. There are a number of hilltop villages in the Var, like Bormes-les-Mimosas and Gassin. There, you’ll find cobbled streets, artisan shops and local markets that sell fresh produce.
The Var enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot summers. The department boasts some of the best harbours, beach clubs and promenades on the Côte d’Azur.
The Var and French Riviera host a range of vibrant festivals each year, many of which celebrate Christian traditions; however, all are welcome. From les Fêtes de la Châtaigne (Chestnut festivals) in autumn to the Lake Arbor Jazz Festival, there’s always something to do in the Var.
If you’re at home outdoors, you can engage in water sports, sailing and diving in the sea, hike in the Massif des Maures or cycle through vineyards in the Var.
Chateau and church in Aiguines and St Croix Lake in the background, Var , Provence I Image: Marisa Estivill via Shutterstock
What can you buy for your money in the Var?
The Var is a dynamic location on the Côte d’Azur known for attractions that include Saint-Tropez, the seaside village of Sainte-Maxime, Cavalaire-sur-Mer – the longest beach in the area – and various hilltop villages.
Unlike elsewhere in France, there are more apartments in the Var than houses. This is largely to accommodate the tourism that the French Riviera attracts. The department is also popular with those looking to buy a holiday home. Second homes currently represent just under 25% of the property market in the Var[i].
If you’re looking to buy property in the Var, expect to pay a premium. There are a range of architect-designed villas, sea-view apartments, traditional village homes and single-storey villas to choose from.
According to Notaires[ii], the average old apartment (not a new build or development) in the Var’s prefecture, Toulon, is €2,600 per square metre. The average price for older homes (resale) in Toulon is €465,200. The area is one of the most expensive in France and the market’s luxury portfolio reflects that.
Apartments in the Var can vary in price depending on size and location. For example, a one-bedroom apartment can vary between €265,000 (new-build inland Saint-Tropez) and €1,000,000 (likely with sea views, either by the beach or port.
Houses and villas in the Var vary in price too. There are new-build properties inland that attract prices around €450,000, however you could pay up to €7,000,000 for a three-bedroom home in Sanary-sur-Mer.
Steps to buying property in the Var
- 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 and 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 Var
When buying property in the Var, 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.
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