Luxury Property For Sale in Aix en Provence

Aix-en-Provence is considered one of the most attractive cities in all of Provence, boasting everything from ancient ruins and historical areas to stylish boulevards with art galleries and boutiques. Culinary enthusiasts will be thrilled to learn that Aix-en-Provence and nearby towns offer truffle and wine experiences, too, like truffle hunting and wine tastings at historical vineyards.

As a university town drawing students from around the globe, Aix-en-Provence retains a lively and youthful feel, with plenty of culture and nightlife to keep you busy. Plus, the climate in Aix-en-Provence is mild and sunny year-round, inspiring residents and visitors to partake in golf, lavender field tours, picnics, boat rides and more whenever they wish.

Properties in Aix-en-Provence blend authentic Provencal charm with modern comforts. Peaceful and exclusive, homes here often have gorgeous outdoor areas with landscaped gardens, heated pools and wooden decks.

Inside, expect to find multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, plus additional rooms like home cinemas and elegant libraries. Exceptional properties may also include complete home automation and security systems, parking space for multiple vehicles, and prime views.

Some homes in Aix-en-Provence also have guest rooms and caretaker’s apartments with independent entrances for extra privacy.

The average price for a luxury home in Aix-en-Provence is approximately €8,000 per square metre. However, pricing may be higher or lower depending on location, amenities and other details.

For a 7-bedroom, 1,000-square-metre castle on a wooded estate, you may pay €7,900 per square metre, for a total cost of €7,900,000. A 5-bedroom, 205-square-metre estate with close proximity to the Aix-en-Provence historic center may cost €8,2500 per square metre, for a total cost of €1,690,000.

Some properties in the area cost less at closer to €6,300 per square metre. For example, a 205-square-metre house just 20 minutes from Aix-en-Provence, complete with an orchard, vegetable garden, pond and separate workshop on the property, costs €6,330 per square metre for a total of €1,298,000.

On the other end of the price spectrum, some noteworthy properties in Aix-en-Provence can cost upwards of €15,000 per square metre. For example, a 370-square-metre villa set close to the town center, with 6 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms, costs approximately €15,630 per square metre.

Also, since many homes in Aix-en-Provence have private guest accommodations that are separate from the main house, you may be able to find a luxury apartment to buy. Or, you could rent out an apartment on your own property for an additional income stream.

There are no restrictions for expats who want to buy Aix-en-Provence property in France. However, there are specific considerations for non-residents who are looking to buy French property, namely when it comes to finances.

While it’s possible to find a French bank that will offer a mortgage to a non-resident, you may have to pay a larger-than-normal deposit. Generally, a typical deposit on a French mortgage is 15% to 25% of the purchase price, though it may be lower at 5% to 10% of the purchase price, depending on the terms. As an expat, you may have to put down 20% to 30% more than that.

Additionally, expats may have to provide extra proof of income or finances in order to qualify for a French mortgage.

Buying French property in Aix-en-Provence is likely different from what you’re used to in your home country. Here’s what you can expect:

• Make an Offer: When you’ve found a home you’d like to buy, you’ll make a formal offer to the seller in writing. The seller will then accept the offer, reject it or negotiate with you.
• Sign the Initial Contract: Once you and the seller have agreed upon an offer, you’ll both sign the Compromis de Vente.
• Pay the Deposit: You’ll put down the agreed-upon deposit.
• The Cooling-Off Period: This is a mandatory part of the process, during which you can withdraw from the sale and get your deposit back.
• The Conveyancing Process: The notaire will prepare documents and schedule inspections during the 10- to 12-week conveyancing process.
• Sign the Deed: You and the seller will sign the final contract, called the Acte de Vente.
• Finalization: You’ll pay the remaining balance, and the notaire will ensure that property ownership is legally transferred to you.

It’s best to work with a property agent who’s familiar with the local property market and can give you expert advice on purchasing a home in Aix-en-Provence. Additionally, a property agent will have access to private listings that you wouldn’t learn about otherwise.