There is a more positive feeling amongst agents and buyers alike. In truth, the purchase of overseas property by UK buyers has been very at a very low level, however the news of sales being agreed is most definitely increasing in frequency. Albeit that those sales, being under the ‘microscope’, do get magnified and thereby a small number of sales makes for a lot of positive talk within the industry. Never-the-less it is evident that confidence is returning and valuations for mortgage purposes are matching sale prices and meeting customer requirements. Activity levels are….. on the rise across the board and with new property instructions too. As prices were re-aligned lower in accordance with the poor market conditions, there are some great bargains to be had for those ready to act now.

Provence and the Cote d’Azur, France

Superlatives abound when describing this region of South East France, sandwiched between the Mediterranean and the Alps, with excellent road access, Alpine skiing within easy reach, lovely beaches, great shopping and dining and trendy nightlife. What is often forgotten are great schools, exquisite villages and an envious lifestyle. Our reach extends from St Tropez to Menton and inland to Vence and St Paul. We have featured a number of properties in the Mougins region.

South West France

This superb and popular region of France includes a truly diverse countryside and includes both the Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts. Served by the airports of Toulouse, Biarritz, Pau, Rodez and Carcassonne it has Pyrenean ski resorts just short drive south, beautiful rolling countryside through the Tarn and Garonne and some of the best cuisine in France. This land of vineyards, Castles and Chateaux has substantial family properties at prices representing exceptional value. Below we have listed a small sample for your consideration.

Chateau Aveyron, Midi Pyranees

A very attractive 19th Century Château of carefully restored…. living space providing 7 bedrooms plus a 3 bedroom guest cottage. The property is set in grounds of approximately 10 acres with outbuildings and swimming pool in a rural location. Set in a fine hilltop location with beautiful views of the bastide town below. Located 20 km from Villefranche de Rouergue and approximately 70 km from Toulouse.

Price Guide: 1,950,000 Euro

Exceptional Chateau, Landes

Set on top of a hill, with lovely views of the pretty surrounding rolling countryside, this superb 17th Century Château is in a peaceful and rural setting but conveniently situated within 10 minutes of two attractive market towns. Impressive accommodation and just 15 minutes drive of a world famous Spa with Michelin 3 star restaurant. Pau airport is 50 minutes away. Biarritz airport is 1 hour and Bordeaux airport is one and a half hour’s drive. Full details on request

Price Guide: 2,300,000 Euro

Languedoc Rousillon, South of France

A completely renovated 11th Century Chateau/Castle. Set on a hilltop surrounded by forest. This domain of twenty five acres has 360 degree protected panoramas to the Mediterranean over the river valley’s farms and villages, medieval ruins and snow capped peaks. The interior living space is over 650m2. There are eight bedrooms and eight bathrooms. Two bedrooms with their bathrooms and would easily form a separate guest apartment. Located 12km from the Mediterranean coast and 75km from Pyrenees ski resorts.

Price on application

Midi Pyranees, Languedoc

This beautiful historic XVIth Century Chateau with a tower at each corner and a fifth tower on the main façade housing the spiral staircase has retained its authenticity and is in a beautiful and peaceful setting in glorious countryside. The Chateau offers some 1000m2 of living space set in 6 ha of grounds bordered by a river. There is an apartment of some 250m2 with 9 rooms and 3 further apartments in the outbuildings. Beautiful period features including monumental fireplaces and ceilings ‘à la française’. Great potential to create further accommodation. A driveway lined with Lime and Chestnut trees leads to the beautiful courtyard of honour with a wrought iron grill surmounting a low wall to one side and enclosed by the three wings of the Chateau on the other sides

Price on application

Mougins, Cote d’Azur, France

Charming ‘Provençale’ south facing villa, fully renovated and located in a residential domain overlooking a most exclusive golf course. The property consists of 2 large reception rooms 6 bedrooms each with bathroom, a pleasantly landscaped garden, and a very large pool. Play room, Solarium,

Parking for 5 cars, 2nd kitchen on garden level. Private pool, Irrigationsystem, Security alarm. Air conditioning, Heating, Main services.

Price Guide: 2,700,000 Euro

Mougins, Cote d’Azur

Magnificent stone bastide from the 19th century, entirely renovated, located in one of the most prestigious areas of Mougins, with wide open views of the sea and the Hills of l’Estérel. South facing and offering 6 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms. Built: 520 sqm. Large garden of 11.200 sqm with private pool and pool-house. Parking for 5 cars and garaging for 2 cars.

Price Guide: 6,500,000 Euro

Mougins, Cote d’Azur

Magnificent 6 bedroom, ‘Provencal’ property made of stone and set in a landscaped park of 7,421 m2 (approaching 2 acres) on a quiet residential estate. The villa enjoys a very pleasant view of the old village of Mougins and provides 4 bedrooms with bathrooms, an independent apartment and private pool. The accommodation includes The main living room has beautiful fireplace and library. TV Lounge, Study, Dining room, Guest w.c. Built 533m2. Irrigation system. Parking for 10 cars

Price Guide: 5,950,000 Euro

Mougins, Cote d’Azur

Magnificent stone ‘Mas’ fully renovated set on grounds of around 2,400 sqm with an open view of the hills of l’Esterel. This charming 5/6 bedroomed and 5 bathroom property has a landscaped garden with private pool and small ‘cascade’. Automatic watering, Boules area, Pool-house, Reversible air-conditioning, Mains services. Parking for 4 cars and garaging for 2 cars.

Price Guide: 2,950,000 Euro

]]> http://www.nichecom.co.uk/blog/tlooverseas/?feed=rss2&p=188 http://www.nichecom.co.uk/blog/tlooverseas/?p=187 http://www.nichecom.co.uk/blog/tlooverseas/?p=187#comments Tue, 01 Dec 2009 09:58:03 +0000 charlotte http://www.nichecom.co.uk/blog/tlooverseas/?p=187 Mallorca

The island has retained an enviable position in the Spanish property market as, whilst there has been some excellent new development in recent years, it has not been on the scale of the mainland. The island is more less one hour drive across and more of less the same north to south with the authorities determined to limit development and retain the island’s culture and heritage. Property prices have seen some adjustment and settled, values are holding and the banks are confident again to provide mortgages at original ‘loan to value’ levels.

Marbella, Costa del Sol

The great news for buyers is that there are some excellent properties on the market to choose from. Agent expectations for the New Year are very positive following some good indicators this Autumn. There are good deals to be had for cash buyers and owner expectations have become realistic. The banks are lending again, generally around 65% ‘loan to value’, which is a little less than in recent years. The rental market is strong which is good news for investors. Below we have listed some outstanding property stretching from Marbella to Estepona and we can assist with most price ranges and property types

Puerto Portals, South West coast, Mallorca

Beautiful town house with stunning south facing views over fashionable…. Puerto Portals Marina and the sea. Spacious accommodation with large lounge dining room. Fully fitted kitchen. 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms. 2 large terraces. Accommodation 190m2. Terraces 220m2. Superb new community swimming pool and leisure area. Garage. A/C Hot and Cold.

Just reduced to 1,750,000 Euro

Fabulous 4 bedroom villa overlooking the secluded bay at Portals Vells, located in Sol de Mallorca, an unspoilt region of coastline and pine forest. This luxurious and spacious property enjoys top quality finishes featuring, marble floors, fine ceramics and high tech equipment throughout. Guest bedroom and bathroom, wine cellar. An impressive staircase and gallery lead to 3 bedrooms, 3 ensuite bathrooms and private seaview terraces. Elevated pool terrace with a heated infinity pool and separate Jacuzzi with beautiful panoramic views. Parking for 4 cars

Price Guide: 3,250,000 Euro

Porto Colom, South East coast, Mallorca

Residencial Bendinat De Portocolom is a stunning new development with town houses, duplexes, and luxury apartments set amongst lush Mediterranean gardens, and boasting a huge 750m2 sculptured swimming pool. Located a stroll from the sea and the charming town of Portocolom, with all local amenities, fine restaurants, and shops, the properties are built to a high specification by one of Mallorca’s most popular and successful developers.

Features include; Siemens kitchens, Daikin air conditioning (hot and cold) with each room separately controlled and under floor heating in the bathrooms.

Underground parking, with elevator access into the development makes access both quick and easy. Sizes range from an 81m2 for a 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment up to a spacious 274m2 town house.

Prices from 319,000 Euro to 810,000 Euro

A fabulous newly constructed villa in a popular and quiet residential area just 3 minutes walk to the beach.

The 750m2 property occupies a corner location and has substantial road frontage. The property has a impressive main entrance leading via double doors to an attractive reception area with atrium ceiling.

Offering 4 bedrooms suites in the main house there is an additional 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom guest apartment together with an open-plan lounge and kitchen within the grounds. The main living/dining room has a large open fireplace and features a double height ceiling with exposed timber beams. There are 2 large bedroom suites on the ground-floor and a wrought iron balustraded staircase leads you to the 1st floor master suite which features a roll top bath and two dressing rooms.

The substantial extensively fitted kitchen has a central island, black granite work tops and a beautiful terracotta and exposed beamed ceiling and provides a spacious dining area and a ‘den’. Stairs from here lead to the lower ground level that has a bedroom with en-suite bathroom, equipped gym and further shower-room/w.c.

The exterior includes a substantial covered terrace encompassing the 12m x 5m pool with semi-circular seating area and a large attractive and integral Jacuzzi. There are extensive landscaped gardens and ornamental water features. Ample parking is provided along with a double garage. Vehicular access is via electronic gates. All main services provided. Hot and Cold Air Conditioning throughout. Security systems. Satellite TV

Price Guide: 2,200,000 Euro

Superb 3 bedroom penthouse with magnificent views and huge rooftop solarium and plunge pool set in the upper reaches of Golf Valley, in the centre of Marbella´s most important residential development, with the most exclusive and elegant lifestyle, surrounded by five of the best golf courses in Europe

Price Guide: 1,095,000 Euro

Stunning contemporary designed villa set in an idyllic setting overlooking a golf course. The villa is south west facing and the accommodation is split between 2 wings. The main living accommodation consists of a large lounge/diner, TV room, modern fitted kitchen,3 bedroom suites and large playroom. In the guest wing there are 2 further bedroom suites and a lounge complete with small kitchen. Additional space can be found in the large undeveloped basement which has some natural light and offers the possibility to build further living accommodation, gym and home cinema. The garden and pool nestles between the 2 accommodation wings and overlooks La Alqueria golf course. The villa is available for sale and rent.

Price Guide: 2,400,000 Euro

Marvellous 4 bedroom villa with open views to the golf course and La Concha mountain. The villa has been totally reformed in a contemporary style with open plan lounge, superb gourmet kitchen, 2 downstairs bedroom suites and a large master bedroom suite upstairs. The basement features a guest/staff apartment with separate entrance and a large storeroom. Externally there is a large mature garden with pool with open views to the mountains.

Price Guide: 1,800,000 Euro

Superb 5 bedroom villa set in an elevated position in the golf valley with views to the sea. The villa has been completely updated and includes a marvellous Kitchen/Breakfast room and indoor pool, ADSL, Air conditioning Hot and Cold. Automated irrigation system.

Price Guide: 6,500,000 Euro

Magnificent contemporary 6 bedroom villa set in a quiet road in Los Naranjos. This marvellous property has been totally renovated to the highest of standards and includes many features including a heated saltwater pool, under-floor heating, air conditioning, security glass, garden illumination, comprehensive security system, ADSL, 2 modern gas fire places, security shutters, water deposit, solar panels, wifi and a marvellous fitted kitchen with top of the range appliances. The spacious accommodation comprises of 6 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, lounge, TV lounge, dining room and marvellous kitchen. The basement offers further opportunities for creating a cinema room and gym. One of the best properties to come to the market in recent times.

Price Guide: 4,750,000 Euro

Superb modern 3 bedroom villa located in a convenient position in central Nueva Andalucia. The property has been the subject of extensive improvements including the installation of a heated pool with creative lighting, garden illumination, and extended terracing with lighting which has created a very attractive outdoor living and dining area. Internally there is a modern kitchen, open plan lounge/diner, upper mezzanine level ideal for a home office, large master bedroom with en-suite bathroom plus 2 further bedrooms sharing another bathroom. In the lower ground level is a large 2 car garage plus storage and large driveway suitable for 3 cars. The house faces southwest and benefits from afternoon sun. If further living accommodation is required there are plans drawn to extend the property to create a 4 bedroom/4 bathroom villa at relatively low cost.

Price Guide: 1,100,000 Euro

Superb 3 bedroom duplex penthouse set in beachfront position within a luxury beachfront urbanization. The apartment has benefited from being extended and upgraded to create a wonderful contemporary property with stunning sea views. The complex features out door and indoor pools plus a gymnasium and 24 hour security.

Price Guide: 1,395,000 Euro

Superb 2 bedroom ground floor corner apartment in a luxury development in Sierra Blanca. The accommodation comprises 2 large bedroom suites, large lounge with fireplace, guest bathroom and large kitchen/diner. Externally there is a marvellous covered terrace complete with bar and dining area leading onto a private garden which offers views over the lovely communal gardens and pool area. The apartment has 2 underground parking spaces and a large storeroom. The community features a large outdoor pool plus indoor pool and gym.

Price Guide: 750,000 Euro

]]> http://www.nichecom.co.uk/blog/tlooverseas/?feed=rss2&p=187 http://www.nichecom.co.uk/blog/tlooverseas/?p=190 http://www.nichecom.co.uk/blog/tlooverseas/?p=190#comments Tue, 01 Dec 2009 09:57:59 +0000 charlotte http://www.nichecom.co.uk/blog/tlooverseas/?p=190 We have previously featured the beautiful Aosta valley which stretches from Cervinia in the east to Courmayeur in the west. Between the two are numerous villages of merit for the discerning buyer. In addition we have also included some fine property Tuscany and Umbria including Tuscany’s ‘Golden triangle’ which includes the world famous Chianti region with exquisite towns, pretty villages and, of course, it’s iconic ‘tuscan’ landscape….. Current reports from leading property specialists have confirmed that despite the poor property sales experienced elsewhere over the last two years this highly prized region has remained in demand and prices have held firm.

Cervinia, Aosta Valley

One, two and three bedroom apartments for sale at Cervinia alongside the golf course with stunning uninterrupted views of the Matterhorn. The apartments are part of a complex currently under renovation that will include a boutique hotel and the apartments will have use of the hotel facilities including the spa. Completion 2011.

Prices from 300,000 Euro

Gaiole, Chianti, Tuscany

Located in the heart of the Chianti region this property consisting of 3 beautifully restored and converted stone barns enjoys breathtaking views over the Chianti’s unique countryside. The main house of 500m2 has 5 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. Spacious living room, large kitchen and Library. Additional 2 bedroom Guest house. Garaging. Land approx 27 acres.

Price Guide: 3,000,000 Euro

Orvieto, Umbria

This is an Umbrian Estate House recently restored to a high standard for year round comfort. Every bedroom has its own luxury bathroom. The picturesque villa is set on 17 acres of rolling meadows and woods, situated close to Orvieto, in the green heart of Umbria.

The villa has a large 18 metre swimming pool, set amongst olive terraces, with lovely views of the surrounding countryside. Grass and stone terraces frame the pool and a wide pergola by its side offers shade. The villa offers 6 bedrooms of which 4 are air conditioned, with 6 full bathrooms. The attached Casetta sleeps an additional 4 people.

Price Guide: 3,500,000 Euro

Immersed in a magnificent setting between century old cypress trees and vineyards, this perfectly restored barn is part of a residential complex and has a completely independent position. This two-floored building of approx, 120 m2, plus outdoor terrace and covered eating area, is surrounded by 2000 m2 of well kept private garden. The restoration has been carried out to a high standard using prestigious materials such as terra cotta paved flooring and chestnut beamed ceilings and offers every modern comfort. The house is composed of an entrance with dining area and kitchen and gallery, a well-lit living room with fireplace, a store cupboard, 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. The large communal swimming pool is a few metres from the garden, moreover, a 5 star spa for relaxing is within walking distance.

Price Guide: 890.000 Euro

Set in one of the most desirable locations of Tuscany much of the magic of this property is discovered along the scented country lanes and ancient cypress alleys that meander through the 1000 hectare agricultural estate - one of the largest private landholdings in this sought after region which forms an idyllic and overall well functioning consortium with all owners living within it’s grounds of meticulously landscaped vineyards and olive groves. This residence painstakingly restored and gently coaxed into a more modern time is a heaven for those seeking exclusivity and privacy. The estate is centrally situated within 2 hectares of fenced and electronically gated grounds and has been comfortably furnished and attractively landscaped with over 200 olive trees. Subtly infused by lavender, sage and rosemary it enjoys the most magnificent sunset views over the rolling hills of Chianti with the medieval town of Siena in the distance. There are approx. 700 sqm of habitable space distributed between the principle building and the guest house which comprises a total of 8 bedrooms and bathrooms as well as several kitchens, entertaining inside and outside seating areas, storage facilities and a four car garage. Here one can enjoy a wealth of luxurious services and amenities like the five star boutique hotel, within walking distance, with ample spa facilities as well as the convenience of an efficient administration, that takes care of the practical side of Tuscan life.

Price Guide: 4,800,000 Euro

An idyllic Tuscan estate set in an excellent position on top of a hill with 360° view over the rolling Chianti countryside with very good access to the freeway Florence and Siena (10 minutes); along roads, in parts un-asphalted, which lead through the most beautiful landscape of the Chianti around the monastery of the Badia a Passignano and the famous Antinori vineyards. The property is surrounded of olive trees, grassland and forest and consists of totally 10 units; 4 of them are independent houses and 6 apartments, all on two floors and of various living surface. Every unit with private entrance and garden connected to the kitchen or the living-room, plus a large common garden, where will be built the pool in condominium with view to the sunset.

Prices range from 412,000 Euro to 756,000 Euro

In the heart of Chianti Classico, in private position with marvellous exposition south, is located this beautiful winery surrounded by 204 acres of land of which 5.75 Ha are vineyard Chianti Classico D.O.C.G. and 4,000 sqm of garden with swimming pool. The villa with guest house, completely restored, have a total living surface of approx. 500 sqm, on three levels; with 8 rooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 kitchens, 2 loggias. The working winery has all the machines for wine production available: It includes also a wine cellar, completely rebuilt in 2002, with all requirements for a modern wine production, a wine-tasting room; an office and a staff apartment.

Price Guide: 4,900,000 Euro

Courcheval 1850, Savoie

A truly exceptional Chalet in the heart of one of the world’s most famous and prestigious ski resorts…., forming a key part of the 3 valleys ski domain. Located just a stroll from all the facilities, ski lifts, shopping, restaurants and night life this beautifully fitted and furnished property offers 5 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms. 400m2 gross internal. Lift. Sauna. Hammam. Open fireplaces, spacious balconies, exceptional south facing terrace of 60m2 and 2 car garage.

Price on application. Full brochure available on request

Chalet L’Folleras is situated on the Route des Alpes beyond the Hotel de Savoie, the property commands stunning views of both Morzine and neighbouring Montriond.  Split over several levels the chalet offers superior accommodation with a degree of flexibility to suit groups, families and individuals. Most rooms open onto balconies with fabulous mountain views. With a habitable living area of 225m2. A total of  seven bedrooms, the majority of which are en-suite.  Large open-plan living/dining area with open fireplace. American style kitchen. Mezzanine floor, which is full of light and space, creating a sense of calm and tranquillity. Independent two bed apartment on the lower floor with own living room and kitchen and separate access. Working garage to house either a vehicle or to use as boot room/ski locker. Parking for at least four vehicles. Terraces on two levels. Floor plans and additional photos on request.

Price Guide 950,000 Euro

Exceptional value 3/4 bedroom Penthouse apartment located just 15 minutes walk from the heart of Morzine. The Ski bus stop is directly outside the apartment.

Comprising; 2 double/twin bedrooms at the rear of the apartment with separate toilet and bath/shower room The front of the apartment has a double bedroom and shower room with a further room off of this bedroom which could be used as a 4th bedroom or study. Spacious living room with fireplace. Large open plan fully equipped kitchen and dining room. Small balcony. Ski locker and separate boot locker.

Price Guide: 395,000 Euro

A beautiful timber faced 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom chalet in local style situated in Lugrin, close to Evian, with a magnificent views over Lake Geneva from Vevey to Morges and a short drive from the ski resorts of Thollon and Bernex. The chalet was built 5 years ago of very solid construction and well insulated. Large garage. Located within easy reach of Geneva airport. Built 120m2 of living with a further 60m2 of lower ground including the garage and utility space. Plot 2,800m2 (close to ¾ acre).

Price Guide 475,000 Euro

Les Chalets des Trappeurs is a luxury apartment in a newly built (2005) MGM development located in a wonderful part of Les Carroz d’Arraches. Trappeurs is part of two attractively positioned chalets consisting of 12 apartments each.  The chalet’s location offers dramatic views across the valley looking up to the slopes of Les Carroz and Flaine. From the lounge or balcony you can even watch the last skiers come down. Trappeurs is a 10 minute walk into Les Carroz town centre where the ski gondolas start, a free ski bus stop is located next to the apartment. Traditional wooden furniture throughout. Large patio doors overlook the superb Grand Massif valley, leading out to a perfect balcony with magnificent views.

Prices from: 250,000 Euro

A beautiful new detached chalet development, designed by a renowned local architect, located on the river in the Abondance Valley. All have large, south facing, covered terraces with magnificent mountain and forest views.

All chalets are built to the highest standards, well insulated have 3 double bedrooms and 3 bath/shower rooms, spacious salon/dining room and fitted kitchen, and cloakroom w.c. Store room/owners lock up, private parking space, ski room and bicycle storage. Satellite dish, telephone and internet connections, electric heating which can be operated remotely.
Surface habitable : 122 m2
Surface utile : 181 m2
Superficie Terrain Total : 2,226 m2

We understand that an American investor will re-open the skilift in Abondance with direct access to the portes du soleil just minutes distant. This is in addition to the nearby lift at Chatel. Completion expected late 2010

Price Guide: 495,000 Euro