Pinning down a crystal clear answer is rather challenging as we continue to assess the situation day by day.

The market across the French Riviera thankfully never came to a halt during lockdown. Despite an initial reduction in enquires, requests and interest remained with virtual visits popular as people focused upon their search. 

The Riviera is diverse and has options to suit all budgets and requirements, in addition to outstanding international schools and services.

As we are waiting for the formal activity reports relating to this extraordinary period, we have been delighted to help many get the process of looking for a home underway. Taken from genuine conversations with clients, we hope the data below reassures you as regards the process of buying on the French Riviera.

Make your next move with Savills.

Q. I am really keen for this year to be the one where I move to the Côte d’Azur, how can I go about this post lockdown?

The best first step is a personal conversation, a detailed discussion with us about expectations on property, timeline, area, budget and intended use so that we can adjust the wishlist to reality and provide you with curated selections of suitable properties

Q. I am really interested in a second home on the French Riviera, if you were to provide me with advice on buying today what would you say?

We have actually produced a free guide on this subject, available here.

You need the right team on your side to ensure this is a smooth process. Savills has a multilingual team of agents who live and work here, who love what they do and they do it well! Take the time to talk with us, share your search criteria, and the more we learn, the better we are able target your search.

Be really honest in your criteria and what you are willing to compromise on but most of all, list your criteria on what is key, required, convenient plus the don’t wants.

Q. I can’t travel yet but I have seen several properties I like on your website, how can I progress, I don’t want to miss out?

We have vendors, clients and buyers based all over the globe and distance is no obstacle. In addition to virtual visits, video and conference calls and the convenience of email, we have a wealth of tools to help you make your next move. The whole industry has modernised very quickly and the legal field has reacted in step. It is now possible to make offers and sign documents remotely. At the time of writing, we are limited in terms of travel, but the situation is constantly improving and we closely monitor all updates.

Q. I am really keen to visit a property, is it possible?

Absolutely, beyond virtual visits we can still complete physical viewings as long as the vendor agrees. At the time of writing, please note that travel is restricted. We also have strict guidance in place for visits and ask all parties to comply with these regulations. In addition to social distancing and restricted viewer numbers, we do ask you to wear a mask and gloves and all properties will be prepared in advance to limit opening doors etc.

Q. I live in the area and would love to show a property to my family, their opinion is really important in this process, can they join the viewing?

It would be a pleasure, we understand how important a second opinion is. If a client is accepting visits and all guidance is followed closely, viewings can be completed, we just need to be aware of the number of people meeting to ensure this is appropriate for the premises.

Q. The property we viewed today has really struck a chord with me, suppose I put in an offer, what are the next steps?

Legal and industry practice has changed quickly in response to the impact of Covid-19, and such flexibility now affords us the possibility of having contracts and signatures completed at distance, alongside paperwork and important meetings.

View a range of properties for sale and rent across the French Riviera.

Alex and the French Riviera team remain available to assist you in your property search.

Contact the team for further information and to start your search today.

At the time of writing, France has moved into post confinement with strict social distancing gestures and travel limitations in place.

The network of Savills offices across the Riviera have reopened post lockdown and the team are available to discuss your requirement, please note whilst we remain open for business, the health and safety of our clients, colleagues and suppliers is of utmost importance. We have put in place the following measures:    

Use of protective measures such as gel, masks and screens

Frequent disinfection of our offices

Limitation on numbers of people present in our offices and during visits

Possibility of virtual visits, property valuations at a distance  and electronic signature

For physical visits, strict rules of hygiene and protection are respected

Use of new, innovative technologies to reach a wider audience online