Is buying a property in Bergerac a good investment?

Last updated on December 7, 2023

Yes, the analysis of Dordogne's property market is included in our pack

If you've marveled at the scenic landscapes and vineyards around Bergerac, you might have explored real estate options to secure a property in this wine country, envisioning it as your serene retreat in the French countryside of the Dordogne region.

Is it a good idea though? How is the real estate market there? Are prices going up or going down? Do people make profits on their real estate investments? What about the rental demand?

We'll answer all these questions for you! When building and updating our property pack for France, our team has been researching and surveying this area. Actually, lots of customers are interested in investing there. So we thought it would be a good idea to add some information about it in our pack.

Why do property buyers like investing in Bergerac?

Bergerac, nestled in the picturesque Dordogne region of France, has steadily risen as a sought-after location for property buyers.

Its charm lies in its unique blend of historical richness, scenic beauty, and a lifestyle that balances tranquility with vibrancy.

Unlike some other areas in Dordogne, Bergerac offers a more intimate community feel while still providing ample amenities, making it a perfect blend for those seeking a quieter life without compromising on modern comforts.

One of the key attributes that sets Bergerac apart in the real estate market is its rich cultural heritage. This town, with its beautifully preserved medieval and Renaissance architecture, offers an authentic glimpse into France's storied past.

In contrast, other areas in Dordogne might offer either a more rural experience or a focus on modern living, but Bergerac balances these aspects gracefully. The town's historical charm is complemented by its renowned wine industry, which not only adds to its allure but also supports a thriving local economy.

Bergerac's popularity as a property destination began to ascend notably in the early 2000s. This rise in popularity was fueled by a growing appreciation for rural French lifestyles, coupled with improved accessibility through better transport links.

The town's appeal has been sustained, suggesting that its popularity is more than just a passing trend. This sustained interest is backed by a consistent demand for properties, both from local and international buyers, indicating a stable real estate market.

The town attracts a diverse range of people. Retirees are drawn to Bergerac for its peaceful environment and slower pace of life. On the other hand, families appreciate the safe community and the quality of life that comes with living in a region rich in natural beauty and cultural experiences.

Additionally, there's a growing interest from remote workers and entrepreneurs who are looking for a serene yet stimulating environment to live and work.

However, every location has its drawbacks, and Bergerac is no exception. One potential weakness is its relative remoteness compared to major French cities. This can be a deterrent for those who crave urban excitement or need to travel frequently for work.

Additionally, while the local economy is robust, it may not offer the same breadth of job opportunities as larger cities, which could be a consideration for those not yet retired or working remotely.

In sum, Bergerac's blend of historical charm, natural beauty, and a balanced lifestyle makes it a compelling choice for property buyers.

Its sustained popularity and diverse appeal are testaments to its enduring charm, even as it maintains a distinct identity within the broader Dordogne region.

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Why is Bergerac a nice place to live?

Bergerac offers an appealing lifestyle that blends traditional charm with modern conveniences, making it a delightful place to live.

The lifestyle here is characterized by a slower pace, where the emphasis is on enjoying life’s simple pleasures. The culture is rich with history and is deeply rooted in the arts, gastronomy, and of course, viticulture. This area is famous for its wine, and the local cuisine is a testament to France's culinary heritage.

The expat community in Bergerac is thriving, adding to the town's diversity. Many people from various countries have settled here, attracted by the lifestyle and the beauty of the region. This multicultural mix enriches the local culture, making it an interesting and inclusive place to live.

Regarding cost of living, Bergerac is generally more affordable compared to France's major cities. Property prices and day-to-day expenses tend to be lower, which is a significant draw for many.

However, it's important to remember that living in a popular tourist region can sometimes mean higher prices in certain areas, especially during peak seasons.

Safety is another plus for Bergerac. It's known to be a safe place with low crime rates, which is especially appealing to families and retirees. This sense of security is a key factor in the quality of life here.

In terms of amenities and facilities, Bergerac is well-equipped. For healthcare, the Centre Hospitalier Samuel Pozzi is a notable hospital providing a range of medical services. Educational needs are well catered for, with schools like Lycée Maine de Biran offering quality education.

For shopping and leisure, the town has numerous boutiques, markets, and shopping centers like La Cavaille Nord, providing a variety of options for residents.

The quality of infrastructure in Bergerac is good, with well-maintained roads and reliable utilities. Internet connectivity is generally strong, catering to the growing number of remote workers choosing to live here.

Accessibility is another of Bergerac's strengths. It's well connected to other parts of Dordogne and beyond. The Bergerac Dordogne Périgord Airport links the town to several domestic and international destinations, making travel relatively easy.

Additionally, the town is serviced by a network of roads that connect it to major cities in France.

Public transportation in Bergerac includes buses and trains, offering convenient options for local and regional travel. The train station, Gare de Bergerac, provides connections to larger cities like Bordeaux, which further enhances its accessibility.

All these factors combined the relaxed lifestyle, rich culture, vibrant expat community, affordability, safety, ample amenities, good infrastructure, and accessibility contribute to making Bergerac in Dordogne a truly nice place to live.

How much does it cost to buy real estate in Bergerac?

If you need a detailed and updated analysis of the prices, rents and yields, you can get our full guide about real estate investment in France.

In Bergerac the property market is diverse, offering a range of residential properties to suit different preferences and budgets.

This includes apartments, traditional houses, and for those seeking luxury, there are splendid villas often surrounded by picturesque landscapes. The types of properties in high demand in Bergerac tend to reflect the lifestyle and the region's rustic charm.

For instance, traditional stone houses and country homes are particularly sought after, as they offer a quintessential Dordogne living experience, often featuring spacious gardens and historical features.

The property market in Bergerac is a mix of both resale properties and new developments. The resale properties, particularly those that retain historical charm, are highly prized.

However, there's also a growing interest in new developments, as they offer modern comforts and energy efficiency, appealing to buyers looking for a more contemporary living space.

Bergerac offers a relatively affordable property market compared to France's major cities.

Prices per square meter can vary widely depending on the property type and location. For example, a standard apartment or house in Bergerac might range from approximately €1,500 to €2,500 per square meter.

In contrast, luxury properties, especially those with extensive land or unique features, can command higher prices.

Over recent years, property values in Bergerac have shown a steady increase. This is partly due to the growing popularity of the Dordogne region among both domestic and international buyers. The combination of lifestyle, culture, and natural beauty has made Bergerac an attractive investment destination.

Looking ahead, there may be factors that could influence property values in Bergerac. For instance, any upcoming developments or city planning changes can have an impact.

If there are plans for new infrastructure or amenities, such as shopping centers or improved transport links, this could make the area even more desirable and potentially drive up property prices.

Predicting the real estate market in the coming years involves considering several factors. Bergerac's continued popularity as a tourist destination and a place to live will likely sustain demand for properties. The trend towards remote working could also play a role, as more people seek lifestyle locations that offer both beauty and connectivity.

Specific factors that indicate a potential increase in value in Bergerac include its growing reputation as a desirable location, ongoing developments in infrastructure, and the general appeal of the Dordogne region.

The mix of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and quality of life in Bergerac makes it a place where property investment is not just about the bricks and mortar but also about buying into a lifestyle.

As long as these attributes remain, the real estate market in Bergerac is likely to continue attracting interest, potentially leading to an increase in property values.

Where is the best area to buy a property in Bergerac?

When considering the best area to buy a property in Bergerac it's important to recognize that the town offers a variety of neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and range of properties.

In the heart of Bergerac, the historic center is a charming area with narrow, cobblestone streets and beautifully preserved medieval buildings.

Here, you can find a range of properties from quaint apartments in old stone buildings to townhouses. These properties often exude character and are ideal for those who love the vibrancy of town life and easy access to shops, cafes, and cultural events.

However, prices in the center can be higher due to the desirability of the location and the historic nature of the properties.

Moving away from the center, the suburbs of Bergerac offer a more tranquil setting. Areas like Monbazillac, known for its exquisite wines, offer a more rural feel with larger properties, often with gardens or even land.

Here, you'll find a mix of traditional farmhouses and modern homes. The prices in these suburban areas can vary, but generally, you'll get more space for your money compared to the town center.

An up-and-coming area within Bergerac is the vicinity around the Dordogne River. Properties here provide scenic views and a serene environment. This area is becoming increasingly popular for its blend of natural beauty and proximity to the town’s amenities. Investing in a property near the river could be a wise decision as this area continues to gain popularity.

For those looking for a property, it would be wise to consider areas like Cours de Pile or Mouleydier. These neighborhoods offer a good balance between accessibility to Bergerac's town center and the peacefulness of the countryside.

Properties here range from modern villas to traditional homes, catering to a variety of tastes and budgets.

Conversely, certain outskirts of Bergerac might be less advisable for property buyers, especially if they are looking for a balance of tranquility and convenience. Some remote areas might lack easy access to essential amenities or be too far from the cultural and social hubs of the town.

Additionally, while the rustic charm of very old properties can be appealing, they might also come with the need for significant renovation or maintenance.

Here is a summary table to help you visualize better. If you need more detailed data and information, please check our property pack for France.

Area	Atmosphere	Property Types	Price Range	Notes
Historic Center	Vibrant, Cultural	Apartments, Townhouses	Higher	Close to shops and cafes
Monbazillac	Rural, Peaceful	Farmhouses, Modern Homes	Varied	Larger properties with gardens
Near Dordogne River	Serene, Scenic	Diverse	Increasingly popular	Scenic views, rising popularity
Cours de Pile, Mouleydier	Balanced, Accessible	Villas, Traditional Homes	Varied	Good balance of tranquility and accessibility
Remote Outskirts	Isolated	Varied	Lower	Potentially lack amenities, too far from town

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Is there a strong rental demand in Bergerac?

In Bergerac there is indeed a strong demand for rental properties, but the nature of this demand varies between short-term and long-term rentals.

Firstly, the demand for short-term rentals in Bergerac is largely driven by tourism. The region's reputation as a scenic and culturally rich destination attracts a significant number of tourists, especially during the summer months. These visitors often prefer short-term rentals like holiday homes, apartments, and villas.

The target demographic for short-term rentals includes holidaymakers, wine enthusiasts, and those seeking a rural French experience.

Properties with local charm, such as traditional stone houses or properties with vineyard views, are particularly sought after. Areas like the historic center of Bergerac or near major tourist attractions are prime locations for these types of rentals.

On the other hand, the demand for long-term rentals is fueled by locals, expatriates, and some remote workers or retirees seeking a quieter lifestyle. The demographic here is more varied, including families, professionals, and retirees. They typically look for properties that offer a blend of comfort, convenience, and affordability.

Apartments and houses in residential areas with good access to amenities like schools, shopping centers, and healthcare facilities are in high demand. Areas such as Monbazillac or Cours de Pile offer the kind of environment and community that long-term renters seek.

Regarding amenities that help reduce vacancy, features like a well-maintained garden, a pool, or proximity to local attractions can be significant for short-term rentals.

For long-term rentals, practical aspects like parking, good internet connectivity, and proximity to public transportation and schools are more important.

The potential returns on investment for rental properties in Bergerac can be quite attractive, though they vary based on the property type and location. For short-term rentals, properties can command higher rental rates per week, especially in peak tourist seasons.

Long-term rentals might offer lower rates, but they provide more consistent income throughout the year. Overall, a well-located property in Bergerac could potentially yield a healthy return on investment.

In terms of properties gaining more demand and potentially offering better yields, those that cater to the burgeoning tourism market, like well-located apartments or houses with unique regional features, are increasingly popular.

Additionally, properties that appeal to the long-term market by meeting the practical needs of families or professionals can also be a wise investment.

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Is it easy to buy a property as foreigner in Bergerac?

Before we answer the question, please know that we have an article dedicated to the experience of buying real estate as a foreigner in France.

Buying a property in Bergerac, Dordogne, as a foreigner is relatively straightforward, as France generally has an open property market for international buyers.

However, there are some important considerations to keep in mind.

Firstly, there are no specific regulations or restrictions targeting foreign buyers in France. People from all nationalities can purchase property in the country. This inclusive approach makes Bergerac an attractive option for international property investors.

The purchasing process in Bergerac follows the standard French property buying procedure. It typically starts with finding a property, making an offer, and once the offer is accepted, signing a preliminary contract known as the "compromis de vente."

This is followed by a cooling-off period and then the signing of the final contract or "acte de vente" at a notary's office.

It's important to note that the process involves several legal steps and documentation, which might be challenging if you're not familiar with the local system and language.

One of the primary risks associated with property investment in Bergerac, as with any property investment, is the fluctuation in the real estate market. Prices can go up or down based on various factors, including economic conditions and changes in local demand.

Another risk is underestimating renovation costs, particularly if you're buying an older property that might require significant work.

Common pitfalls for foreign buyers in France include not fully understanding the legal process, underestimating additional costs such as notary fees, taxes, and potential renovation expenses.

Unique to buying in France is the importance of understanding the implications of French inheritance laws, which can be quite different from other countries and can significantly impact your estate planning.

Working with a local real estate agent and, ideally, a lawyer, is highly advisable. A local agent will have in-depth knowledge of the Bergerac property market, including which areas are most desirable and what constitutes a fair price.

A lawyer, preferably one who is experienced in French property law and speaks your language, can help navigate the legal complexities and ensure that all the necessary checks and paperwork are in order.

Common exit strategies for property investors in Bergerac include selling the property for capital gains or renting it out for income. The rental market can be particularly lucrative during the tourist season if you own a property in a sought-after location.

Another strategy is to hold onto the property for personal use, enjoying it as a vacation or retirement home while benefiting from long-term appreciation in value.