Buying in Provence: what overseas buyers should know
Provence is one of the most sought-after parts of the South of France, known for its light, its landscape and its way of life. Buyers come here for market towns such as Aix-en-Provence, the hilltop villages of the Luberon, and the countryside of vineyards, olive groves and lavender fields. Purchasers include second-home owners, families and those relocating for a slower pace. Property ranges from apartments and townhomes in the larger towns to stone village homes and restored farmhouses, known locally as mas, set in open country.
What buyers are looking for in Provence
Demand centres on the well-known towns and villages, where character homes and good access are prized. The Luberon and the countryside around Aix draw steady interest, as do the villages of the Alpilles and the vineyards further south. Buyers tend to look for authentic stone properties, courtyards, and land for a pool and garden. Supply of the best village homes and farmhouses is limited, so a local partner agent with an ear to the ground is a real advantage.
Buying as an overseas buyer
UK buyers can own freely in France. Since Brexit, visits are capped at 90 days in any 180-day period across the Schengen area without a visa, with a long-stay visa for longer periods. A notaire oversees the purchase, with a deposit and a short cooling-off period, and fees paid through the notaire are higher on older resale homes than on new-build. Ongoing costs include the annual taxe fonciere, plus taxe d'habitation on second homes, with a surcharge in some areas. French banks lend to non-residents, usually with a larger deposit than a resident would need. Take local advice on your own circumstances. Start your search to see property for sale in Provence, or contact our team to be connected with a local partner agent.
Where to find property for sale in Provence
Provence spreads across several distinct areas. Aix-en-Provence anchors the region with its townhomes and elegant streets, while the Luberon is loved for hilltop villages such as Gordes, Menerbes and Bonnieux. To the west, Avignon and its surrounds offer walled-town living and easy rail links, and the Alpilles around Saint-Remy combine countryside with polished village life. Nearer the coast, Provence meets the Cote d'Azur, where the pace and prices shift.
Property types reflect the setting. Expect stone village homes, restored mas farmhouses, and country estates with vineyards, olive trees and room for a pool. In the towns, apartments and townhomes suit those who want to walk to markets and cafes. Choosing between a rural retreat and a village base is the first decision most buyers make. Explore our collections to shortlist by the way you want to live.
