The Basque Coast as seen by Barnes

Underpinned by stable prices, low mortgage rates and wide-ranging appeal, the property market on the Basque Coast is looking very sprightly. Posting an upturn, the year 2016 witnessed a significant rebound in sales volumes, as explained by Philippe Thomine-Desmazures, Director of the Barnes Côte Basque agency, who here shares his view of the market.

Opened in May 2010, the Barnes Côte Basque agency specializing in sales and rentals of high-end properties extended its field of expertise from Biarritz to Hossegor via St Jean-de-Luz, where a new branch will be inaugurated at the end of January. Director Philippe Thomine-Desmazures talks about a lively market throughout the region and a strong recovery : “Over the past 18 months, the market has picked up considerably : we are seeing lots of activity, even in periods that are usually quiet. Buyers have regained their confidence, and the region is benefiting from growing popularity. Its environment, sports activities, beaches, but also the security that can be found here, are all assets which attract buyers, but also investors interested in the seasonal rental market, for which there is ever-increasing demand. The clientele has a more confident attitude, prices are stable and reasonable, the economy is functioning more smoothly, and interest rates, even though slightly higher, are still at record lows : all the lights are green for go !” Auguring well for the future, the Basque Coast is thus viewing 2017 through rose-tinted glasses. “Prices are no longer declining,” adds Philippe Thomine-Desmazures, “and the time it takes to sell is shorter when prices are correctly estimated. Which is perhaps a prerequisite for a rise in prices over the coming year, though this is yet to be confirmed.”

Barnes Côte Basque, 2 place Bellevue, Biarritz (05 59 51 00 00) www.barnes-cotebasque.com

Benefiting from an ideal location in a quiet spot just 200 metres from the golf-course and beaches of Chiberta, this very smart contemporary house of 290 m2 with a pool stands out for its lovely living areas opening out generously to the exterior. It offers a lovely lounge with hearth, a dining-room, kitchen, and 4 good-sized bedrooms. A 3-car garage and a cellar complete the property. 1.695.000 €.

Near the centre of Biarritz, this charming stone house built in 1890 is surrounded by a lovely mature garden and a terrace. Tastefully renovated, its living space of 320 m2 is comprised of a double lounge, a large dining-room and 4 bedrooms, one on the ground floor with walk-in closet, and a master suite with a fireplace. 1.290.000 €.

After 10 years in consultancy and marketing, Philippe Thomine-Desmazures joined the Barnes group in Biarritz in 2010 to apply his expertise to top-notch real estate and manage a French and international clientele.