If you’ve been thinking about purchasing a second home in France, you’ll be pleased to learn that the French government is considering extending the length of time Britons can stay in the country from three to six months. This potential change in the law has sparked a surge in interest from UK residents, with a 582% increase in property searches on international websites. The new laws are still pending approval from France’s Constitutional Council, but the potential changes have already prompted a flurry of activity in the real estate market.
According to data from Kyero, an international property website, there has been a significant increase in inquiries for properties in France, particularly in the Alpes-Maritimes region. The surge in interest has been attributed to the potential changes in residency rules, which has sparked a wave of optimism among British buyers.
This increase in interest is not limited to property searches. Organic traffic on property portals has also seen a significant uptick, with inquiries from new British clients increasing by 16%. Furthermore, sales support directors have noted a surge in property viewings, indicating a growing interest in the French real estate market.
The potential changes in the law have also sparked debate, with some arguing that the post-Brexit agreement is unfair to British second-home owners in France. While French citizens are allowed to stay in the UK for up to six months without a visa, Brits in France are required to apply for a long-stay visa, which can be a lengthy and cumbersome process.
While the potential changes in the law are welcome news for Brits looking to purchase property in France, the new immigration bill has also sparked controversy. The legislation aims to reduce migration to France and could have far-reaching implications for migrants, including limiting access to state healthcare and deporting those with a criminal record.
As the debate continues, the potential changes in the law could have a significant impact on the real estate market in France, making it an exciting time for those considering a second home in this beautiful country.
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