Buying a second home on the Côte d’Azur: The ultimate guide

Dreaming of buying a second home on the legendary Côte d’Azur? With its heavenly beaches, sunny climate and rich culture, this region attracts investors from all over the world. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious villa in Saint-Jean Cap Ferrat, a charming Provencal apartment in Mougins or a modern property in Valbonne, our prestigious real estate agency, Estate Prestige Knight Frank, is here to guide you.

Why choose the Côte d’Azur?

An idyllic setting

The Côte d’Azur offers an exceptional living environment. With its turquoise waters, sandy beaches and picturesque landscapes, every corner of this region is worthy of a postcard. To live here is to enjoy the simple pleasures of waking up with a view of the Mediterranean Sea or savoring a dinner for two under the stars.

The cultural offering is equally impressive. From music festivals to art exhibitions and local markets, there’s always something to discover.

A safe investment

Investing in property on the Côte d’Azur is not only a pleasure, but also a financially sound decision. Indeed, the average price per square metre here remains one of the highest in France, guaranteeing strong long-term value for your property.

What’s more, demand for summer rentals is very high. Owning a second home can generate substantial rental income when you’re not using it.

The most popular areas in which to buy a second home

Saint-Jean Cap Ferrat

Saint-Jean Cap Ferrat, synonymous with luxury and elegance, is one of the most exclusive places to buy a second home. Its sumptuous villas hidden among the umbrella pines offer total privacy and breathtaking sea views.

Nestled between Nice and Monaco, Saint-Jean Cap Ferrat offers the perfect blend of tranquility and accessibility. You’ll be able to reach high society with ease, while enjoying your own personal haven of peace.

Cap d’Antibes

Cap d’Antibes is famous for its historic properties and luxury hotels. Here, the marriage of ancient and modern creates a unique atmosphere. Let yourself be tempted by a stroll through the Garoupe nature park, a swim at Plage des Ondes or an evening at the legendary Hôtel Eden Roc.

By choosing to invest in Cap d’Antibes, you’re opting for a destination with timeless charm and a strong heritage.

Eze et Beaulieu-sur-Mer

For those who prefer the charm of hilltop villages, Eze and Beaulieu-sur-Mer are unmissable destinations. Eze, with its medieval streets and stone houses, offers unrivalled panoramic views. Every stroll here is a journey back in time.

As for Beaulieu-sur-Mer, its Belle Époque elegance and modern infrastructure will win you over. Boating enthusiasts will particularly appreciate the perfectly equipped marinas.

What to consider before buying

Defining your needs and desires

Before embarking on the purchase of a second home, it’s essential to clearly define your needs and desires. Do you want a large villa with swimming pool to welcome family and friends? Or a cozy apartment with a sea view for more intimate getaways? Your choice will determine the options available and facilitate your search.

Ask yourself the right questions: what are your requirements (proximity to the beach, security, amenities)? what kind of atmosphere are you looking for (tranquil, festive)? what are your architectural preferences?

Evaluating the budget

The Côte d’Azur offers a wide range of properties, from small village houses to sumptuous mansions. It’s crucial to determine a realistic budget, taking into account not only the average price per square meter, but also ancillary costs such as property taxes, condominium fees and maintenance costs.

You should also consider how you will finance your purchase, whether through a down payment, a mortgage or a combination of the two. Drawing up a financial plan will help you avoid unpleasant surprises and make your project more worry-free.

The buying process

Search and selection

Once you’ve defined your criteria, start by browsing online ads and visiting properties likely to meet your expectations. Don’t hesitate to call on a specialized real estate agent like Estate Prestige Knight Frank, whose 20 years of expertise in the luxury real estate market on the Côte d’Azur will guide you efficiently.

Visiting several properties will enable you to compare different offers and better visualize your future home. Take into account the local environment and infrastructure (transport, shops, schools).

Negotiation and sales agreement

Once the ideal property has been found, it’s time to negotiate. Negotiations can focus on the sale price, but also on specific clauses relating to work to be carried out, deadlines for handing over the keys, and so on. The help of a real estate professional can be invaluable in securing the best terms.

Once the terms of the sale have been agreed, it’s time to sign the compromis. This binding document sets out the general conditions of the transaction and marks the official start of the purchase procedure.

Living on the Côte d’Azur

Leisure activities

Owning a second home on the Côte d’Azur isn’t just about relaxing in the sun. The region offers a multitude of activities to suit all tastes. Hiking in the hinterland of Nice, water sports on the Mediterranean, wine tasting in the vineyards of the Var, or strolling through typical markets… there’s something for everyone!

And let’s not forget major cultural events such as the Cannes Film Festival, the Monaco Grand Prix and the many concerts and shows that enliven the Côte d’Azur throughout the year.

Local gastronomy

It’s impossible to talk about the Côte d’Azur without mentioning its gastronomy. From Mediterranean dishes and freshly caught seafood to regional specialties such as socca and pissaladière, every meal is a feast for the taste buds.

The region’s many Michelin-starred restaurants showcase local produce and offer unforgettable culinary experiences. Whether you’re a fan of traditional or modern cuisine, you’ll never be disappointed.

The advantages of working with Estate Prestige Knight Frank

Expertise and experience

With over 20 years’ experience in luxury real estate on the Côte d’Azur, Estate Prestige Knight Frank is your trusted partner in realizing your dream purchase. We know the local market inside out and can find the property that best meets your expectations.

Our experienced agents are with you every step of the way, from defining your needs to finalizing the purchase. Thanks to our extensive network and precise local knowledge, we can guarantee you a smooth and secure transaction.

Personalized service

At Estate Prestige Knight Frank, every customer is unique. Our personalized approach aims to fully understand your desires and criteria in order to offer you tailor-made properties. We take the time to listen, advise and support you, so that your project becomes a reality.

We believe that buying a second home should be a special experience. That’s why we make every effort to offer you a pleasant, stress-free experience, ensuring transparent, responsive communication throughout the process.

Key points to remember

Acquiring a second home on the French Riviera is an exciting adventure. Whether you’re drawn to the tranquil elegance of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat or the timeless charm of Cap d’Antibes, every corner of this region offers unique opportunities. To ensure the success of your project, it is essential to clearly define your criteria, establish a precise budget, and work with trusted professionals like Estate Prestige Knight Frank.

Our experienced agents are here to guide you in discovering the real estate treasures of this exceptional region. Live the Riviera dream with complete peace of mind!

Tips for a Successful Project:

Compare properties after reviewing listings and conducting visits.

Negotiate and securely sign a preliminary sales agreement.

Clarify your needs and expectations before starting your search.

Account for additional costs to accurately evaluate your budget.