Theoule sur Mer Property
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Area Guide
Sunbathe in idyllic sandy coves shaded by palm trees before going for a leisurely swim in the crystal blue water of the Mediterranean sea; wander through the cool and shady oak and pine forests of the Esteril Mountain national park; sail around the fabulous red and rocky coastline discovering hidden rocky inlets and secluded bays before dropping anchor and enjoying an al fresco lunch in the warm sunshine; visit the 14th Century Château de la Napoule and its wonderful gardens - listed by the French Ministry of Culture as among the most notable gardens of France. Part of the Alpes-Maritimes and situated just down the road from Cannes, Théoule-sur-Mer is a small fishing village nestling in a small sheltered cove on the Esterel Coast and set against the magnificent backdrop of the Esteril Mountain national park.
Still relatively unknown, Théoule-sur-Mer is a charming small seaside resort and a haven for those discerning travellers seeking peace and beauty on the French Riviera. Quieter and more laid back than its lively neighbour – Cannes, Théoule-sur-Mer is justly famous for its superb rocky coastline and breathtaking scenery and Théoule-sur-Mer property is now becoming increasingly sought after by investors wishing to own their own little piece of unspoilt paradise on the Côte d’Azur.
Théoule-sur-Mer has been a fishing village since medieval times, and until relatively recently was governed by the municipality of Mandelieu, until becoming a municipality in its own right in 1929. During the 5th century, the bay of Théoule-sur-Mer was a fortified stronghold complete with watch tower – providing safe harbour and security – but this was destroyed in 1648. The town’s fishing heritage and strong links with the sea have remained during its transformation into an upmarket and chic resort although Théoule-sur-Mer still retains its ‘small town’ feel and peaceful atmosphere. There are numerous excellent restaurants and bars and plenty of stylish shops. The weekly market held at the Figueirette Port every Friday is also definitely worth a visit; the bustling stalls sell a range of local food such as organic fruit and vegetables, hot cooked roast chicken and locally caught fish and shellfish; colourful flowers and locally made pottery.
The town is renowned for its excellent sporting activities including scuba diving, sailing, jet skiing, water skiing and sea fishing. For those preferring to keep their feet firmly on dry land there are over twenty golf courses in the area, horse-riding stables, cycle hire shops and 23km of fantastic walking trails in the Esteril Mountain national park.
The beautiful landscape and scenic walks are one of the town’s major attractions and nature lovers and ramblers are spoilt for choice; a leisurely walk around the bay on a balmy evening watching the setting sun sparkle on the blue sea is a lovely way of working up an appetite for dinner. The more adventurous can do a complete circuit of the headland up to ‘La Pointe de L’Aiguille’ where sublime views of red rock, blue sea and green pine trees can transport you far away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. And don’t forget to visit the town’s lovely marina with its mini lighthouse built from Théoule-sur-Mer’s famous red stone!
Sailing around the coastline is a good way to appreciate the beauty of Théoule-sur-Mer; ochre coloured rocky inlets, cavernous limestone valleys, green pine trees and luscious vegetation are all set magnificently against the rugged and imposing Esteril Mountains. Find a secluded bay, drop anchor, uncork a bottle of chilled Chablis and while away the afternoon with a lazy and relaxed picnic lunch followed by a dip in the warm Mediterranean Sea before heading back to land.
In 2012, French property price growth slowed to 0.8% according to the latest figures from the FNAIM, the national federation for estate agents in the country. The French Riviera was no exception and house prices fell by an average of 0.6% although apartment prices rose by 1.7%. Théoule-sur-Mer is in one of the most beautiful locations along the French Riviera so Théoule-sur-Mer property prices reflect that. The most affordable properties tend to be in modern apartment blocks that are ideal for lock up and leave holiday use, whereas the more luxurious and secluded villas and apartments are more expensive, with those on the waterfront commanding premium prices in excess of four million Euros.
Théoule-sur-Mer Property
There is a wide range of Théoule-sur-Mer property available from town houses to luxury apartments in private residences and secluded villas set in landscaped gardens.
Théoule-sur-Mer property in the centre of town has the twin advantages of being close to the shops and restaurants and yet walking distance from the sea and palm-shaded beaches and bay. Choose from modern apartments, charming stone houses or traditional fishing cottages.
Still near to the beach and sea are the private residences where luxury apartments are landscaped around private pools and gardens. Incorporating all the most up- to-date amenities and facilities including private garages, these superbly located apartments have large and sunny terraces offering stunning views of the Bay of Cannes, the Lérins Islands and Cap d’Antibes, tennis courts and private moorings for your yacht. Some residences offer a 24 hour concierge service to take care of all your needs and others have their very own four star restaurant.
Villas in Théoule-sur-Mer
Secluded villas dotted around the red and green mountain side are surrounded by lush, landscaped gardens and have spectacular views. Light and luminous, these properties are modern with generously sized rooms, swimming pools and large stone terraces. Those with waterfront positions and easy access to the beach and marina are highly sought after and command premium prices.
Théoule-sur-Mer property offers investors the perfect opportunity to buy property in one of the most beautiful and peaceful towns on the French Riviera. Whether a charming stone town house, a luxury modern apartment or secluded waterfront villa, Théoule-sur-Mer property is a good investment with prices remaining competitive compared with much of the rest of France. With a year round Mediterranean climate, a relaxed and peaceful charm and breathtaking scenery, investing in Théoule-sur-Mer property opens the door to one of the French Riviera’s best-kept secrets.
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.