The latest developments on Saint-Tropez’s property marke

Radia Amar. - 30 July 2015

This legendary seaside resort in the Var needs no introduction : its very name is synonymous with an enviable life-style blending glitz and glamour with all the charm of Provence. Its international renown brushes off on communes all around the Gulf, some proposing real little corners of paradise.

At the heart of a favourite address among residents who can lay claim to the world’s largest fortunes, the most luxury homes are clustered around the town. “Clients set their sights on places of enchantment,” says Delphine Blet of Showroom Immobilier. “The market in Saint-Tropez is looking rosier, and its offerings are appealing. Prices have declined over the past two years, and genuine buyers realise that now is the time to invest. The number of transactions completed is considerably higher this year, a fact also explained by more advantageous exchange rates for certain currencies.” In fact, for some properties, prices have indeed dropped sharply, with the general economic situation giving rise to offers 30 or even 40 % lower than the prices posted. It should, however be pointed out that, before the crisis, prices had risen steadily for the previous two decades. On average, one can now expect to pay from 8,000 to 10,000 € per sqm. for a renovated apartment, 15,000 to 20,000 € per sqm. for a property in a new residence, depending on the appointments proposed. A small detached house will rarely be found under 2 million euros. “Most of the sales concern investments or holiday homes acquired by clients in their forties, mostly from northern Europe, Italy and the USA.” The most well-heeled aim for beautiful properties with views of the sea and top-notch amenities (guest cottages, more than one swimming pool, landscaped parks, gyms, boat hangars…). In the neighbourhood of La Belle Isnarde, such desirable gems will cost from 9 to 10 M €. Prices which can triple in the case of private access to the sea and a helipad. The “Saint-Tropez” address matters a great deal, and competes in terms of real-estate investment with the foremost capitals throughout the world.

Full of charm and proposing other weighty arguments, neighbouring communes comprise a chic suburban area, much appreciated as a fall-back solution by those with more restricted budgets, or quite simply preferred by a clientele in search of authenticity. In activity for the past 8 years, Arcade Sud Immo Transactions specializes in the market comprised by communes around the Gulf of Saint-Tropez : Gassin, La Croix Valmer, Cavalaire-sur-Mer, Le Rayol-Canadel, Grimaud and Sainte-Maxime. “We have a portfolio of properties ranging from 500,000 to 5 million euros,” says Guillaume Videcoq. These addresses attract a clientele 80 % foreign, mainly north Europeans fond of Provençal architecture. “We have seen a rally in 2015, with lots of enquiries. The most widely sought-after property is still a villa with at least four bedrooms and a garden of around 1,500 m2. A view of the sea tops the list of selection criteria, followed by walking distance to a beach and amenities, and no renovation work to be done.” On these communes, this type of detached house in impeccable condition can be found from 1 to 3 M €. Among his recent sales,, Guillaume Videcoq cites a property of 200 m2 set in grounds of 1,400 m2, right at the water’s edge in Le Rayol-Canadel. Requiring some refurbishment, it has just been acquired by a Swiss buyer who paid around 2.6 M € to treat himself to his corner of paradise here in Provence. On average, it currently takes about a year for properties to sell. Those entrusted to a sole agent, handled in a more confidential manner, usually find takers more rapidly.