As the capital of the Pyrénées-Orientales department, Perpignan is both medieval and modern, mixing history with the vibrant energy you’d expect from a popular city. Though the area is youthful and lively, there are also pockets of quiet, residential areas where you can find tranquil Perpignan property. With world-renowned educational facilities and a pleasant climate year-round, it’s easy to see why so many buyers are looking for a home in this section of Occitanie.
Where is Perpignan in France?
Perpignan is deep in the South of France, only 15 minutes from the Mediterranean Sea and its inviting beaches. Its closeness to Spain – the border is about one hour away – can be thanked for Perpignan’s exotic mix of cultures, Catalan spirit and strong Spanish identity. Skiing in the Pyrénées isn’t too far, either – you can be on the mountains in 90 minutes.
Perpignan is easy to travel to and from, with both an international airport and a high-speed train easily accessible. That convenience is one reason why it’s so sought-after by investment property buyers, especially when it comes to homes in the heart of the city.
Perpignan’s setting means it has a distinctly Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and hot, sunny summers. Even on the warmest days, though, you’ll get some relief from the breeze — Perpignan is known to be quite windy due to its proximity to both the sea and the mountains.
What Makes Perpignan So Popular?
There’s a lot of history in Perpignan, and the inspiring city is small enough to tour by foot. The Palace of the Kings of Majorca, which dates back to the 13th century, is a palace and fortress with gardens fit for royalty. At the Perpignan Cathedral, which is a national monument, visitors marvel at the stunning stained glass.
Take a helicopter ride over the Pyrénées for rare views of the Cathar castles. More fantastic scenery can be found at Le Castillet, a defensive structure from the 14th century that became a prison in the 17th century. Today, visitors head up to look out upon the city and countryside.
The area is known for its gastronomy, and it’s hailed as a centre for fruits, vegetables and wine. Escargot and herbs are common ingredients that you can buy at the Place de la République when you’re planning a dinner party. If you need ceramic pottery, Sant Vicens is the premier place to shop. And when you’d rather dine out than stay in, try Spanish-inspired tapas followed by a glass of local wine.
About half an hour away is the Musée de Préhistoire de Tautavel, where you can explore a full-sized cave replica with tools and fossilized bones on display, honouring the prehistoric finds that were discovered in the caves of Tautavel. Only 15 minutes away is the Saint Cyprien Golf Resort, and there are numerous other courses between Perpignan and Monte Carlo.
What Types of Properties Are Available to Buy in Perpignan?
There’s no lack of property for sale in Perpignan. Apartments, townhouses, chateaux and villas are all available, and buyers may live here full-time or rent out the property for part of the year.
Old Town is popular with buyers, especially ones looking for an investment property, as apartments here have high rental potential. After all, travellers can’t resist the charming cobbled streets that pass boutiques, bars, cafes and restaurants.
For a luxury villa, you’ll need to head a bit further from the city centre, out toward either the coast or the mountains. Coveted property for sale in Perpignan may have open-plan interiors, a gym and spa, or a wine cellar. Some beachfront homes will have direct access, too.
Homes here have lovely exteriors as well, and you could become the owner of a landscaped garden, private pool and olive or lemon groves. Swimming areas are often designed to fit in with their natural surroundings – yours may even have its own waterfall.
Despite Perpignan being an ancient city, many homes have been renovated or redesigned while retaining their original allure. Waterfront mansions dating back to the 1800s are restored with high-tech amenities and fitted out with antique furniture. Chateaux often have original features lovingly preserved, like mosaics, marble columns and painted ceilings. Moreover, properties with a lot of land may have additional buildings that can be used for work or extra living space.
How Do You Buy a Property in Perpignan?
Working with a property buyer will make the process of finding and buying property for sale in Perpignan much smoother. Property agents know the ins and outs of the area where you want to buy, which is necessary if you’re unfamiliar with the surroundings. They also understand every step of the buying process, and they may be able to show you listings that aren’t available to the public.
Once you’ve found a home in Perpignan that you want to buy, you’ll make an offer to the owner in writing. If the offer is accepted, both parties will sign the initial contract, which is called the Compromis de Vente.
Next, you’ll wait through a mandatory 10-day cooling-off period that affords you time to change your mind about the purchase without paying any penalties. After that, the conveyancing process begins. Over the span of approximately 12 weeks, various home assessments will take place.
During the last stage of buying property for sale in Perpignan, you and the seller will finalise details, which will be included in the deed, called the Acte de Vente. Both parties will sign the deed, and you’ll then make your final payment. At that point, the home is officially yours!
HOMEHUNTS property agents are able to select beautiful, luxury property for sale in Perpignan based on your specific search criteria. Whether you want to live in a bustling town or city, or a more tranquil setting, there is Perpignan property to fit your needs. Search our site and browse our selection of luxury homes. You can also speak directly to one of our consultants by calling +33 (0)970 44 66 43.
