France looks set to become the next investment hotspot for UK landlords. French homes have been off the agenda for many property investors in recent years, as tax rises and a sluggish economy have combined to keep prices and rental returns down. The evidence is coming from several directions that this may be about to change. Driven by punitive actions by the UK government and a return to French competitiveness, investors are being both pushed and pulled to France.
The requirement to register apartments rented out to tourists began some four years ago in Catalonia. Now, more and more regions are following this idea and the latest to introduce registration is Andalusia.
The debate over Britain’s status in the European Union is not just a matter for the British people living in the country, or British citizens living and working within Europe, it is also of concern to the other member countries too.
With just a few weeks left to go before the EU Referendum on June 23rd, the latest polls seem to be showing that the vote is going to be very close indeed. Many expats here in France confess to not being totally aware of what would actually happen if Britain left the EU and there is some evidence to suggest the feeling may be the same for many in the UK.
The High Court ruling today confirmed that any British expats who have been living away from the UK for over 15 years are unable to vote on whether the UK should stay or leave the EU. The case was spearheaded by a 94 year old veteran of World War II, Harry Shindler, who is resident in Italy, and a lawyer, Jacquelyn MacLennan. Their case was based on the argument that by denying them the right to vote on whether the UK should stay in or leave the EU, their right to freedom of movement under EU law was restricted, stating that their lives will be directly affected by the outcome of the referendu
The EU is threatening Spain with action unless it improves protection for the public when taking out a mortgage with a Spanish bank. In a formal notice sent out last week, the European Commission said it “is requesting Spain to bring its national laws on civil procedure regulating mortgage enforcement and payment orders in line with EU consumer law… to ensure that consumers are fully protected against unfair contract terms.” The Commission says that Spain has two months to reply to the notice.
