Luxury Real Estate: American Investors Dominate Paris and the Riviera
Despite a stronger euro, affluent Americans continue to invest heavily in exceptional properties in Paris and along the French Riviera.
The luxury real estate market in France remains resilient, with Americans among the leading buyers despite the euro being stronger than the dollar.
In Paris, properties of remarkable distinction are drawing attention.
For instance, real estate agent Corinne Moustafiades, representing Century 21 Alpha Hoche Fine Homes & Estates in the 16th arrondissement, is tasked with selling a unique Art Deco mansion.
This property, an expansive 425 square meters, features a landscaped garden of 400 square meters and was designed by renowned architect Jean Walter during the Roaring Twenties.
The property is fully restored and includes a triple reception area with large windows opening onto a sumptuous garden, alongside an indoor swimming pool, hammam, gym, and terraces, all listed at a price of €9 million.
The high-end market in Paris has seen consistent demand, with luxury property prices reportedly increasing by 2% in early 2025, reaching an average of €15,000 per square meter.
Some neighborhoods, such as the 4th arrondissement, have experienced price surges to €18,000 per square meter, an increase of nearly 20% year-on-year.
In iconic areas like Montmartre, prices for exceptional properties can exceed €20,000 per square meter.
Charles Marinakis, president of Century 21, noted that American buyers are particularly attracted to the vibrant culture of Paris, including its art and culinary scenes, influenced by shows like 'Emily in Paris' and significant events such as last summer's Olympic Games.
In addition to American investors, wealthy Asian buyers, particularly affluent Chinese nationals, have also become increasingly prominent in the Paris luxury market.
For these buyers, acquiring property in Paris symbolizes success and status; they are often less concerned with authenticity compared to their American counterparts and are known to escalate bids for prime properties, sometimes reaching prices of €30,000 to €50,000 per square meter for luxury homes with views of the Eiffel Tower.
Along the French Riviera, locations such as Monaco, Cannes, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, and Nice remain coveted among wealthy individuals worldwide.
The "prime" market consists primarily of villas valued at €2 to €3 million, accounting for approximately 50% of sales.
High-end listings often exceed €15 million, exemplified by the iconic Roc Fleuri estate, a historical Art Deco property perched above Nice.
Formerly frequented by notable figures like Sean Connery, this residence spans over 1,000 square meters across six levels, surrounded by a five-hectare park with panoramic views of the Mediterranean.
It is currently listed at €23.5 million, approximately €20,000 per square meter, which is considered favorable compared to similar properties that often range from €25,000 to €30,000 per square meter.
Four showings have already been conducted for potential buyers from Dubai, coinciding with major events such as the Monaco Grand Prix.
The real estate sector for luxury properties has reported a significant increase in business; in the first half of 2025, agents specializing in high-end listings are projecting a sales increase of 15% compared to 2024. However, a major limitation in this thriving market is the scarcity of high-end properties.
Buyers from Russia have shown reduced activity on the Riviera amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, opting to retain their properties for potential future use.
Notably, high-net-worth French buyers tend to prefer discretion, contrasting with the more public displays of success favored by American investors.
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