Is buying a property in Deauville a good investment?

Last updated on December 7, 2023

Yes, the analysis of Brittany & Normandy's property market is included in our pack

If you've enjoyed the elegant resorts and horse racing in Deauville, you might have considered purchasing a property in this prestigious destination, making it your stylish retreat on the Normandy coast and indulging in the chic lifestyle of Northern France.

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 Deauville?

Deauville, nestled in the region of Brittany and Normandy in France, stands out as a gem in the real estate market, thanks to its unique blend of charm, history, and lifestyle offerings.

Distinguished from other areas in Normandy and Brittany, Deauville boasts a rich tapestry of cultural and historical significance, coupled with a luxurious lifestyle that has been attracting property buyers for decades.

The allure of Deauville began to surge in the late 19th century, when the Duke of Morny transformed this once humble fishing village into a fashionable resort.

It rapidly gained prominence among the Parisian elite, drawing in a crowd seeking sophistication and leisure by the sea. This historical legacy continues to imbue Deauville with a sense of exclusivity and prestige.

Deauville differs from other areas in Brittany and Normandy in several key ways. While Brittany is renowned for its rugged coastline and Celtic culture, and other parts of Normandy are known for their rich history and pastoral landscapes, Deauville offers a more polished, upscale experience.

It's celebrated for its beautiful Belle Époque architecture, well-manicured gardens, and a famous boardwalk, "Les Planches." The town is also renowned for its horse racing, film festivals, and luxury boutiques, elevating it beyond a mere residential location to a hub of high-end leisure and culture.

The town's popularity, initially a haven for the aristocracy and the wealthy, has somewhat democratized over time, but it still predominantly attracts those looking for luxury properties, second homes, or investment opportunities in a prestigious location.

The buyers here often seek not just a home, but a lifestyle that combines the tranquility of seaside living with the vibrancy of cultural events and upscale amenities.

However, Deauville is not without its drawbacks. The very factors that make it attractive also contribute to its high property prices, potentially placing it out of reach for average buyers.

Additionally, its popularity can lead to crowded conditions during peak tourist seasons, which might not appeal to those seeking a more tranquil or secluded environment.

The climate, typical of the Normandy region, can also be a bit unpredictable and is generally cooler and wetter than the Mediterranean or southern France, which might be a deterrent for some.

Despite these potential weaknesses, Deauville's unique combination of luxury, culture, and historical prestige continues to make it a coveted location for property buyers who are drawn to its exclusive charm and the sophisticated lifestyle it offers.

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Why is Deauville a nice place to live?

Deauville is often considered a delightful place to live for several reasons, ranging from its lifestyle and culture to its infrastructure and accessibility.

The lifestyle in Deauville is characterized by its elegance and a certain joie de vivre. Known for its beautiful Belle Époque villas, racecourses, and the famous Les Planches boardwalk, Deauville is a hub of cultural activities. The town hosts prestigious events like the Deauville American Film Festival, attracting a cosmopolitan crowd.

This cultural richness provides residents with a vibrant, yet relaxed environment, blending the charm of a seaside resort with the sophistication of an urban center.

Regarding the expat community, Deauville, with its international reputation, attracts a diverse group of residents, including many expatriates. These individuals are often drawn by the town's unique blend of French charm and high-end amenities.

The presence of an international community adds to the town’s vibrant and diverse atmosphere.

The cost of living in Deauville can be quite high, especially when it comes to real estate. Properties in this area are sought after for their location and historical value, making them more expensive compared to other parts of Normandy.

However, the cost of everyday living – like groceries and dining out – is relatively on par with other French towns, barring the more upscale establishments.

Safety is another appealing aspect of Deauville. It is generally considered a safe place to live with low crime rates, making it a suitable choice for families and individuals seeking a secure environment.

As for amenities, Deauville boasts a range of facilities. It has reputable educational institutions, including the Lycée André Maurois for secondary education. Healthcare needs are well-served by establishments such as the Polyclinique de Deauville. Shopping enthusiasts enjoy the mix of luxury boutiques and local shops, particularly around Place Morny, a central square in the town.

Infrastructure in Deauville is well-maintained. The roads are in good condition, making driving a pleasant experience. Utilities and services like electricity, water, and waste management are reliable. Internet connectivity is generally strong, aligning with France's high standards for digital infrastructure.

Accessibility is one of Deauville’s strong points. It is well-connected to other parts of Normandy and beyond. The town has a small airport, Deauville-Normandie Airport, offering seasonal flights.

Additionally, it's just about two hours away from Paris by car, and there's also a train station, Gare de Deauville, providing convenient rail connections.

Within the town and nearby areas, public transportation options include buses and taxis, making it easy to get around without a personal vehicle.

Overall, Deauville presents a unique combination of cultural richness, high-end amenities, safety, and accessibility, making it an appealing place to live for those who can afford its lifestyle.

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

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.

Buying a property in Deauville offers a range of options and varying costs depending on what you are looking for.

In Deauville, you'll find a variety of residential properties. The market here includes apartments, traditional houses, and luxury villas. Each type caters to different needs and preferences.

Apartments, especially those with views of the sea or in the town center, are popular for their convenience and lower maintenance. Houses offer more space and privacy, often preferred by families or those seeking a more permanent residence. Luxury villas, the hallmark of Deauville's real estate, are high in demand for their exclusivity, location, and amenities.

The properties in high demand in Deauville are typically those that offer a combination of location, luxury, and lifestyle. Properties near the beach, the famous boardwalk of Les Planches, or in the town center, where festivals and cultural events are a stone's throw away, are particularly sought after.

The demand is driven by buyers looking for second homes, investment opportunities, or a luxurious primary residence.

Deauville's real estate market is a mix of new developments and resale properties. While much of the town's charm comes from its historic and well-preserved buildings, there are also new developments that offer modern amenities and designs.

These new constructions sometimes offer advanced features like energy efficiency, modern architecture, and integrated technology.

The price range for properties in Deauville can vary significantly based on factors like location, size, and condition. On average, prices per square meter can range from a few thousand euros to much higher for premium properties, especially those offering sea views or located in prime areas.

Over recent years, property values in Deauville have generally seen an upward trend, driven by its enduring appeal as a luxury destination and its limited and highly coveted property market.

Looking to the future, there may be developments or city planning changes that could affect property values. Any new luxury developments, improvements in infrastructure, or enhancements to local amenities could potentially increase property values.

Conversely, changes that alter the town's character or oversupply the market could have the opposite effect.

Predicting the real estate market in the coming years involves considering various factors. Deauville's status as a prestigious and culturally rich destination, along with its limited space for new developments, suggests that property values are likely to remain high or even increase.

Factors such as economic conditions, interest in luxury second homes, and the town's ability to maintain its charm and appeal will play crucial roles in shaping the future real estate market in Deauville.

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

When considering the best area to buy a property in Deauville it's crucial to understand how different parts of the town offer distinct atmospheres, property types, and price ranges.

The most prestigious area in Deauville is undoubtedly near the beach and the famous Les Planches boardwalk. This area is known for its Belle Époque architecture, luxury villas, and high-end apartments.

Properties here often come with premium price tags due to their prime location, sea views, and historical significance. The proximity to the beach and town center, where many of Deauville's cultural events take place, adds to the allure of this area.

Another sought-after part of Deauville is the town center, particularly around Place Morny. This area is vibrant, filled with shops, cafes, and markets, making it a lively place to live. Properties here are a mix of apartments and townhouses, appealing to those who enjoy being at the heart of the action and who appreciate the convenience of amenities within walking distance.

On the outskirts of Deauville, you'll find more residential neighborhoods that offer a quieter atmosphere. These areas are often more affordable and provide a diverse range of properties, including newer developments and larger homes with gardens.

While these areas lack the immediate access to the beach and town center, they compensate with a more relaxed setting and often more space.

Regarding up-and-coming areas, it's wise to keep an eye on parts of Deauville that are seeing new developments or renovations. These areas might offer more competitive prices now, with the potential for appreciation as they become more developed and popular.

However, there are areas in Deauville that might not be as advisable for property investment. Regions that are further from the central attractions of the town, or those lacking in amenities, might not hold their value as well or provide the quintessential Deauville experience.

These areas might not appeal to those looking for holiday homes or investment properties due to their location and lower demand.

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
Near the Beach & Les Planches	Luxurious, Historical	Luxury Villas, High-End Apartments	Premium	Prime location with sea views
Town Center (around Place Morny)	Vibrant, Lively	Apartments, Townhouses	Moderate to High	Close to shops, cafes, and markets
Outskirts of Deauville	Quiet, Residential	Diverse Range, Newer Developments	Moderate to Affordable	More space, relaxed setting
Up-and-Coming Areas	Varies	Varies	Competitive, Potential for Appreciation	Good for future investment
Far from Central Attractions	Less Desirable	Varies	Lower	May not hold value as well

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Is there a strong rental demand in Deauville?

Deauville has a robust rental market, characterized by a strong demand for both short-term and long-term rentals, each catering to different demographics and needs.

The short-term rental market in Deauville is particularly vibrant, driven largely by the town's appeal as a luxury holiday destination. This market primarily targets tourists and visitors who come for the town's famous beaches, cultural events like the Deauville

American Film Festival, and its historic charm. These short-term tenants often look for properties that offer convenience and a taste of luxury. Apartments and villas near the beach or in the town center, particularly around Place Morny and along the Les Planches boardwalk, are highly sought after.

For short-term rentals, features like modern amenities, well-furnished interiors, and proximity to attractions can significantly reduce vacancy rates.

Long-term rentals, on the other hand, cater to a different demographic. These are often people working in Deauville or nearby areas, expatriates, or retirees. They typically look for properties that offer a balance of comfort and convenience.

Apartments and houses in quieter, residential areas of Deauville, or in neighborhoods that are a bit removed from the tourist-centric areas but still accessible, are popular for long-term rentals. Amenities like good connectivity, proximity to schools, and local shops can be attractive to long-term tenants.

In terms of potential returns on investment, Deauville's rental market can be quite lucrative, especially for well-located properties.

Short-term rentals, given the high tourist influx, can command premium rates, particularly during peak seasons like summer and during major events. Long-term rentals offer more stability but might yield lower monthly returns compared to short-term lets.

However, the exact figures can vary based on factors like property size, location, and amenities.

Properties that are increasingly in demand, and which could potentially offer better yields, are those that align with the evolving preferences of renters.

For instance, properties with outdoor spaces like balconies or gardens have become more desirable, especially in the wake of the increased desire for personal outdoor space.

Similarly, properties that offer a blend of local charm with modern amenities are also in demand.

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

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 Deauville is relatively straightforward for foreigners, as there are no specific regulations or restrictions targeting foreign buyers in France.

This openness makes France, including Deauville, an attractive destination for property investment by international buyers.

The purchasing process in Deauville follows the general framework of property transactions in France. It starts with finding a property and making an offer. Once the offer is accepted, a preliminary contract, usually called a "compromis de vente," is signed.

This is followed by a cooling-off period, then the signing of the final deed of sale, "acte de vente," in the presence of a notary. This process typically takes a few months from start to finish.

However, there are risks and pitfalls that foreign buyers should be aware of. One primary risk is the fluctuating real estate market, which can affect property values.

Additionally, being unfamiliar with the local market trends and property values can lead to overpaying. Unique to the French property market is the complexity of the legal processes and the amount of paperwork involved, which can be daunting for those not familiar with the system.

Common mistakes include underestimating additional costs such as notary fees, transfer taxes, and ongoing property taxes. Foreign buyers sometimes overlook these when budgeting for their purchase.

Another mistake is not thoroughly investigating the property, which in France can sometimes reveal hidden issues like unclear property boundaries or planning restrictions.

Working with a local real estate agent or lawyer is highly advisable. They can provide invaluable assistance in navigating the local market, understanding legal requirements, and ensuring all paperwork is correctly completed.

They also assist in communicating in French, which is crucial as all legal property documents are in French.

Common exit strategies for property investors in Deauville include selling the property for capital gain or renting it out. The rental market, especially for holiday lets, can be quite profitable in a tourist-centric place like Deauville.

Reselling can also be lucrative, especially if the property has appreciated in value due to market trends or improvements made to the property.