Where are the Brits Buying in France?

Little England is showing on UK TV at the moment highlighting the charms of Dordogne but don't forget the neighbouring departments around the Dordogne. They are very attractive in their own right. In fact, better value is offered so don't miss them without at visit. Here is an extract about a report on the SW France.

The study, carried out by INSEE, reveals that Brits are in the majority among “foreigners” in this part of the country. According to the research there are now 16,000 Britons in the Aquitaine region, and when expanded to include the neighbouring departments of Gers, Charente and Charente-Maritime the number could double.

Aquitaine is, of course, home to the perennially popular ‘Dordogneshire’, so this perhaps comes as no great surprise. In fact, according to the INSEE report, of all the Brits living in France, the majority (7,200) have made the Dordogne department their home. In certain areas, such as Eymet and Verteillac, Brits account for more than 8% of the population. In 2011, 78% of the 289,000 passengers who passed through Bergerac airport were British.

However, the study also revealed a marked change in the profile of those making the move. While traditionally the focus has been on retirees moving to France to enjoy their golden years, there is now a new breed of younger buyers leading the way.

Another area that is very popular: Lower Normandy

A separate study also revealed that Britons represent the largest “foreign” population in Lower Normandy, now home to 7,000 British residents. Between 1999 and 2009 the British contingent almost tripled as buyers were drawn to the region’s more rural areas. Yet in contrast to the new wave of younger buyers in the south-west, 45% of Britons in Lower Normandy are retired and more than half are aged 55 and over.

Complete article: Brits favour the south-west

More Help:
For a selection of property in the highlighted departments
Dordogne
Gers
Charente
Charente-Maritime
Lower Normandy

Video: River Dordogne
Six centuries ago, the Dordogne River separated warring England and France during the Hundred Year's War. Today, tourists float along the lazy Dordogne exploring riverside castles and villages.

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