St Tropez Properties
Area Guide
Ask anyone to describe St Tropez properties, and they will describe an almost legendary location at the heart of the French Riviera that has become so embedded in popular culture as to be synonymous with luxury, glamour and celebrity. Even the most casual observer will recall iconic images of Hollywood greats walking the sun-drenched boulevards, of open-topped sports cars touring the hillside roads, or of luxury yachts bobbing against the backdrop of the glittering Mediterranean.
Today, St Tropez properties still offer a unique opportunity to buy in arguably the most iconic resort of the 20th century. From the luxury marina bordered by waterfront restaurants, to the old quarters of the town packed with exclusive designer boutiques, the St Tropez lifestyle is all about providing the very best life has to offer and offering both relaxation and excitement in equal measure.
St Tropez properties are located in one of the most beautiful regions in France, in the Var department of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur. While the town itself is beautiful, the landscapes beyond the town limits are truly spectacular. The hills around the town rise majestically from the sea, and are crowded with fields, vineyards and olive groves, as well as small villages where St Tropez properties can also be found. The countryside can be enjoyed on foot, bike, horseback or even car, but often the true heart of St Tropez is found by the sea.
Once a small fishing village - indeed many older St Tropez properties are traditional fisherman’s cottages - St Tropez boomed as a resort in the 1950s with the influx of the rich and famous. The old fishing harbour has been transformed into the modern yachting marina found today, and the many berths ensure that St Tropez properties are popular with boating enthusiasts. The iconic marina is a truly 21st century installation, despite its humble beginnings, and has a host of facilities for enjoyment both on and off the water.
The long, wide sandy beaches of the Baie de Pampelonne are never far from any of the St Tropez properties. Stretching to over 5km, the beaches provide a wealth of activities and sports along their length, and are divided into both public and private areas. The separate beaches for swimming and relaxing away from the more adrenaline fuelled water sports such as jet-skiing and water-skiing ensure that both fun and relaxation in the sun are always available.
St Tropez properties also have access to a great number of more formal sporting activities, including a wide range of tournaments and competitions. There are many dedicated sports centres, gyms, and both indoor and outdoor facilities to enjoy almost every conceivable sport.
Nightlife and entertainment in the town is both abundant and diverse. St Tropez properties can be found in both the bustling centre and the quieter districts, allowing access to a whole host of entertainment venues. The more tranquil areas of the town are home to some of St Tropez’ best restaurants and café bars, while the heart of the town offers everything from casinos and nightclubs to cinemas and live music venues.
Although St Tropez found worldwide fame in the 1950’s, much of the character of the old town still remains. St Tropez properties can be found in the old quarters where the true Provencal way of life is still seen in the traditional markets, including the ancient fish market that thrives by the archway to the old town. Many of the markets specialise in fresh, local produce, including truffles and the area’s famous wines. St Tropez properties found in the old town are also located near to a great number of museums, galleries and cultural exhibitions, often housed in historic buildings with spectacular architecture.
The fame of St Tropez is not just due to the celebrities, artists and actors that have resided in St Tropez properties, but the fusion of ancient charm, modern facilities and beautiful natural sea and landscapes that still exists to the present day.
Buying a Property in France
1. Signing the Agreement (Compris)
On finding a property you wish to purchase you will need to negotiate the terms, price and conditions of the sale with the owner.
The next step, once you are in agreement, is to sign the preliminary contract (Compromis de Vente). This is a legal document and after ten days will be binding on both parties. Rules change frequently in France and it is best to consult with your notary about when this period starts. Generally the compris will be signed in France with the Agent.
Variants can be included in the compris, for example an Acte (clause) can be added if the name or names to go on the title deed have not been finalised. If a mortgage will be required to purchase the property, the details for this, including the name of the mortgage company, must be on the compris.
2. Paying the Deposit
Generally the deposit will be 10% of the agreed purchase price. This will normally be paid to the notaire. There are exceptions to this, if the agent holds a carte professionelle, is bonded and fully registered then you may pay them, but do not hand over the deposit to anyone else. If for some reason the purchase does not go through, for example, if you write to the notaire and the agent that you do not wish to go continue with the purchase before the contract is binding (within seven days of signing the compris), then your deposit would be repaid. This would also apply if a condition had not been met, or the mayor or S.A.F.E.R. (a government agency that has the right of first purchase on most rural property that comes onto the market in France) could oblige the purchaser to give way. If you decide after the seven days 'cooling off' period that you do not wish to complete the purchase and pull out of the sale you would lose your deposit. If however the vendor pulls out of the sale then you will receive your deposit back plus the same amount from the vendor.
3. On Completion
Generally it will take around two or three months to complete the purchase.
During this time the balance of the purchase money must be paid into the account of the notaire, this must be done well ahead of the completion date. The notaire will prepare the documents, check that the deed of sale (Acte de Vente) is in order and have the legal title ready to be signed over. It is possible to have someone sign on your behalf if you give them power of attorney. An interpreter may be of use at this point if your French is not very good and many Notaires will suggest (or insist) that an interpreter is with you.