France is known for its picturesque villages, stunning countryside, and rich history. Many people dream of owning a home in France, whether it’s a charming stone house in Provence, a rustic farmhouse in Normandy, or a cosy apartment in Paris. But is it realistic to find a property in France under €50,000?
The secret is to do your research and take your time. From farmhouses to cottages, there’s a vast selection of houses to buy in France for under 50,000 or even less!
In this article, we discover how to find cheap property in France under 50k. You could soon be the proud owner of a French holiday home, family property or retirement haven.
The current French property market
The French property market is one of the few in Europe that experienced a decline in 2024, resulting in cheaper house prices.
Economic and political instability have contributed to this, along with rising mortgage rates. In this situation, house prices tend to remain stable or drop, while people wait for the market to recover.
So, now is a great time for foreign buyers searching for houses to buy in France for under 50,000 euros.
The pound to euro exchange rate increased to an average high of 1.2 during 2024. This is forecast to remain stable over the next few years, giving you more for your money if you’re buying in GBP.
What kind of property could I buy in France for under 50k?
While you might not be able to buy a French chateau for sale under 50,000 euros, you will find lots of properties under 50k that can be turned into a dream home.
Renovation projects
These are older properties that are often abandoned and require investment to restore them. You could purchase a small village house or a large stone farmhouse ready to turn into an investment or family home.
The property might need a complete renovation, or it may be habitable while you update it.
Barns and outbuildings
If you want to create a unique home with character in France, a barn for under €50,000 could be the answer. These disused agricultural buildings often include large plots of land. If your dream is to own a home with rustic charm in the heart of the countryside, this project is for you.
Apartments in small towns
If you’re looking for low-maintenance property an apartment or studio will suit you. You’ll find this kind of property in the less touristy areas inland, where fewer people wish to live. While apartments don’t have a garden, some have a small courtyard or a balcony and access to nearby countryside.
Plots of land
If you want to design and build your own home in France buying a plot of land for less than €50,000 is feasible. With the help of an architect and local builders, you could construct the home you’ve always wanted for a fraction of what it would cost in the UK.
The MaPrimeRénov scheme offers government funding to assist French resident property owners with installing the building’s energy system. The scheme has been extended until the end of 2025.
Where to find cheap property for sale in France?
France is large and there are cheap properties for sale throughout the country. You’ll find many in rural areas as jobs here are scarce and young people tend to move to the larger towns and cities.
This makes moving to France ideal if you’re a remote worker and don’t need to travel to work. Living inland is also ideal if you’re retired and want to experience the genuine culture of a small French village.
Brittany
Brittany is situated in northwest France and a popular choice for British expats as it offers easy access to the St. Malo ferry port. Property for sale in Brittany under 50,000 euros ranges from character stone cottages for renovation to barns with outbuildings to transform into your perfect home.
South of France
You might find it surprising, but there are plenty of houses to buy in the south of France under 50,000. You’ll find studio apartments with no maintenance perfect for retirement, land to build on and village houses ready to move into in the Languedoc-Roussillon region.
Central France
From building plots to large houses to renovate, the centre of the country offers plenty of houses to buy in France for under 50,000, with many in Limousin and the Loire Valley. This is the perfect location if you’re looking for an inland property with land to restore or a village house to convert to a holiday home.
Dordogne
The Dordogne is a great place if you want to invest in property in France. Here you’ll find a selection of property types to renovate for under 50,000. With its stunning scenery, nature and outdoor activities, this area is a popular tourist region and suitable for seasonal rentals.
Pyrénées-Atlantiques
If you enjoy winter sports why not consider buying a studio or small apartment in the French Pyrenees? You’ll find a few properties for sale close to the slopes that make the perfect holiday home or investment property to rent out.
Normandy
When looking for houses to buy in France under 50,000 euros, Normandy is another investment opportunity. With easy access to the UK via the Channel Tunnel, this area offers several properties for sale. From stone detached houses for renovation to habitable village houses that need a little work.
Property auctions
Another way to find property for sale in France under 50,000 euros and buy a house below market value is to search for auctions. While not as common as in the UK, auctions do take place in France, usually for properties repossessed by banks. Local agents, notaries and lawyers are likely to be aware of properties for auction in the region you’re looking in.
Your local iad Overseas agent in France can help you find a property for under €50,000. We have access to properties throughout France and can help you find a bargain whether you plan to move to France or invest. Contact us for information on cheap property in France.
3 key points to remember
- The cheaper properties in France are inland.
- Renovating is the ideal way to create your dream home in France.
- Consulting local agents will give you access to the best properties for sale under €50,000.
