Paris – Ile de France - Sextant French Properties

Paris – Île-de-France

Paris Île-de-France is the economic and cultural heart of France, offering a vibrant real estate market with opportunities for both investors and homebuyers. Whether you’re looking for a Haussmannian apartment, a modern penthouse, or a historic townhouse, the region provides a variety of options to suit different lifestyles and budgets.

The region forms the north of France, bounded to the east by Grand Est, to the north by Hauts-de-France and Normandy, and to the south by Centre-Val de Loire and Burgundy-Franche-Comté. It consists of Paris itself and seven surrounding departments — the petite couronne ringing the capital, and the larger grande couronne beyond it. Each has its own character and price bracket:

Why buy property in Paris?

Paris remains one of the most sought-after real estate markets in the world due to its strong demand, international appeal, and solid investment potential:

Strong resale value — Paris property prices have historically increased over time, making it a comparatively safe investment.
High rental demand — with millions of tourists, students, and professionals, Paris has a strong rental market, offering good yield potential.
Cultural and economic hub — as the capital of France, Paris is a thriving centre for business, art, and culture.
Stable market — unlike some other global cities, Paris has a regulated real estate market, which helps maintain stability and prevent speculation.

Best areas to buy an apartment

Paris is divided into 20 arrondissements (districts), each offering unique benefits for property buyers:

Le Marais (3rd & 4th) — historic and trendy, with cobblestone streets and vibrant nightlife. Ideal for short-term rentals and luxury apartments.
Saint-Germain-des-Prés (6th) — elegant and prestigious, known for upscale boutiques, historic cafés, and art galleries. Popular among wealthy buyers and investors.
16th arrondissement — luxury and family-friendly, with large apartments, green spaces, and prestigious schools. Ideal for families and long-term investment.
17th arrondissement — emerging and more affordable, blending Haussmannian charm with modern developments, while still close to central Paris.
Montmartre (18th) — bohemian and artistic, with a village-like atmosphere and stunning views, at a more affordable price than other prime locations.

Average property prices in Paris

The price of real estate in Paris depends on location and property type. Here’s an overview of average prices per square metre:

Area	Average price (€/m²)
Le Marais	€13,000 – €16,000
Saint-Germain-des-Prés	€14,000 – €20,000
16th arrondissement	€10,000 – €14,000
17th arrondissement	€9,000 – €12,500
Montmartre	€8,500 – €11,000

Prices vary depending on the property’s condition, size, and location within the arrondissement.

How to buy property as a foreigner

The French property-buying process is straightforward but regulated, ensuring protection for both buyers and sellers:

Find the right property — work with a registered real estate agent who understands your needs and budget.
Make an offer — once you find a property, you submit an offer (offre d’achat).
Sign the preliminary contract — if the seller accepts, you sign the compromis de vente and pay a deposit, typically around 10%.
Cooling-off period — you have 10 days to change your mind without penalty.
Secure financing — arrange a mortgage or financing if you’re not paying in cash.
Sign the final deed — the acte de vente is signed at the notaire’s office, and you officially become the owner.
Pay taxes and fees — expect notaire’s fees, stamp duty, and property taxes.

Luxury and investment properties

Paris is home to some of the world’s most exclusive properties, perfect for high-net-worth individuals and investors:

Haussmannian apartments — high ceilings, intricate mouldings, and prime locations.
Penthouse apartments — stunning city views, often with terraces.
Historic mansions — exclusive, spacious properties in prestigious neighbourhoods.
Investment properties — buy-to-let apartments for short-term or long-term rentals.

Living in Paris: lifestyle and amenities

Paris is not just about buying property — it’s about embracing a unique lifestyle:

World-class dining — from Michelin-starred restaurants to charming bistros.
Cultural attractions — museums, art galleries, and historical landmarks.
Luxury shopping — designer boutiques on Avenue Montaigne and Faubourg Saint-Honoré.
Parks and green spaces — Bois de Boulogne, Jardin du Luxembourg, and more.
Excellent transport links — Metro, buses, and direct connections to London via Eurostar.

Find your dream property in Paris

At Sextant Properties, we specialise in helping international buyers find apartments, townhouses, and investment properties in Paris. Our team of bilingual real estate experts is here to guide you through every step of the process:

Exclusive listings — access off-market properties before they hit the market.
Local expertise — we work with licensed French real estate agents who know the Paris market inside and out.
Full support — from property search to legal paperwork, we handle everything.