Luxury real estate is booming
Despite the gloomy economic context in France, luxury real estate is highly dynamic in the South, notably in Carqueiranne and Le Lavandou.
The luxury real estate market in the region of Carqueiranne and Le Lavandou shows impressive momentum, driven by buyers looking for exclusive residences. Last October, Virginie Bertrand, head of the Coldwell Banker Beau Rivage agency, celebrated the first anniversary of her agency, marked by the recent completion of an exceptional sale. 'It was a "waterfront" villa in Rayol-Canadel-sur-Mer, listed for sale at €7,850,000. This success reflects the vitality of the sector and the expertise that Coldwell Banker brings to this rapidly changing market,' explains the head of the real estate agency. Originally from Le Lavandou and living in Carqueiranne for 25 years, Virginie Bertrand took her first steps in real estate in 2016, as she recalls: 'Real estate has always attracted me, and an opportunity arose. I started my career in a local agency in Hyères, before specializing in the luxury market, where I achieved remarkable sales, including the sale of a property in Cap Brun for €7 million and a "waterfront" villa in Carqueiranne for €6 million.' Attracted by the values and identity of the global Coldwell Banker network, founded in the United States in 1906 by Colbert Coldwell and Arthur Benjamin Banker, she took the plunge and created her own real estate agency specializing in prestige properties. Moreover, the Coldwell Banker® network is one of the world's leading players in luxury real estate.
A RAPIDLY CHANGING MARKET
Unlike other French regions, on this part of the Var coast, the luxury real estate market is varied, with specific dynamics in each sector. According to Virginie Bertrand: 'Carqueiranne, once a peaceful little seaside village, has been undergoing a true metamorphosis for several years. The town attracts a prestigious clientele looking for peace and discretion, far from more highly publicized destinations like Saint-Tropez.' The proximity of Hyères airport, a 10-minute drive away, makes it a prime location for a national and international clientele, notably Parisians and buyers from Northern Europe, who are still working and looking for a second home that can become their primary residence upon retirement. 'Here, prices per square meter range from €8,000 to €15,000, particularly for exceptional properties with sea views. We are observing a revival of the housing stock in Carqueiranne, where many houses from the 70s to 90s are being bought and renovated. Investing in our sector guarantees a sustainable, long-term investment, and living in our region is a true daily joy,' adds Virginie Bertrand.
PEACE AND AUTHENTICITY
The market also extends to sectors such as Le Lavandou and Bormes-les-Mimosas, where second homes are highly prevalent. 'Unlike other regions, the precise location matters little here; buyers in Carqueiranne and Hyères are looking for a preserved environment, far from the glitz of Saint-Tropez, regardless of the town's name,' the young woman adds. Influential figures, such as fashion designers and leaders of major international groups, choose these peaceful spots to recharge. Furthermore, a new trend is emerging with the arrival of millennials from the tech sector, who seek discretion and nature rather than bling-bling. Despite a slight drop in demand compared to previous years, the imbalance between supply and demand keeps prices high. 'We observed a stabilization of prices in the first half of 2024, which highlights the lasting appeal of our region, which continues to attract an increasingly demanding clientele,' concludes the business owner.