Dordogne Property Market 2026: Our View for 2027
The Dordogne property market feels much more balanced than it did a few years ago.
After the rush of the post-Covid years, rising interest rates and a more cautious approach from buyers, things have settled down. For buyers, I actually think this is a good thing. There is more choice, more opportunity to negotiate and less pressure to make a decision simply because a property might disappear tomorrow.
What are we seeing?
The best properties are still selling well.
Beautiful stone houses, renovated properties, good locations, pools, views and attractive gardens remain in demand — particularly when they combine traditional Dordogne character with modern comfort.
But properties that are overpriced are taking longer to sell. Buyers are much more aware of what represents good value, and I think this will continue into 2027.
The Dordogne is also a big and varied property market. What works in Sarlat or the surrounding villages can be very different from what works elsewhere in the département. Location really does matter.
And what about 2027?
I don't expect dramatic price increases in 2027. Instead, I think we're likely to see a fairly steady market, with good properties continuing to hold their value.
For buyers, there should be opportunities to negotiate, particularly where a property has been sitting on the market for a while. But I wouldn't expect the best houses to be heavily discounted. If something is in the right location, in good condition and priced sensibly, there will still be competition.
For sellers, getting the price right from the start will be increasingly important.
My advice to buyers
Don't get too caught up in the idea of finding a bargain.
The cheapest house isn't necessarily the best buy, and a beautiful property can quickly become less attractive if the location doesn't work for your lifestyle or the renovation costs are much higher than expected.
Take your time, look at different areas and get a proper feel for what is available.
Ultimately, buying in the Dordogne isn't just about finding a lovely French house. It's about finding the right house, in the right place, for the way you want to live.
If you're thinking about buying a property in the Dordogne in 2027 and would like to talk through the market or your plans, I'd be very happy to have a chat.
Predictions for 2025
We may well be at the tail end of Winter but Spring is on the horizon.
Despite a background of political uncertainty the French property market - particularly in rural areas like the Dordogne - is bouncing back! If you are considering buying a property in France this is why now is the time to start your French property search!
Prices are only going to go up - prices for rural properties showed increased growth compared to cities in the latter part of 2024. This is expected to continue in 2025 with rural property price growth likely to outstrip the predicted 2-3% increase in prices across France.
Less room for negotiation on price - buyers will need to negotiate price carefully in 2025. While sellers in 2024 were accepting lower prices it’s expected those choosing to sell in rural areas in 2025 will be more realistic about their listing price and therefore less flexible on accepting lower prices.
More competition from domestic buyers - despite delays in passing the 2025 budget - we are likely to see more competition for properties from French buyers. This is driven by lower interest rates and generally more accessible mortgages. With inflation largely under control French buyers and investors are seeking refuge in property.
Ever increasing demand for character properties - buyers in the main are looking for character properties ready to move into straight away - competition will be tougher in 2025. However, those looking to renovate a property can still find good value for money - but with building and renovation costs still comparatively high - buyers need to realistically work up their renovation costs before committing to a property.
So 2025 will still see exciting opportunities in the French property market for buyers and investors alike. Rural areas like the Dordogne, continue to be popular with buyers seeking tranquility, space and a slice of the French lifestyle.
While it might be more competitive - with the right advice and guidance there will still be opportunities to find great properties. If you're looking to start your French property search or buy a French property now is the time to start and I am here to help.
Summer 2024
As summer 2024 unfolds, the French property market continues to show dynamic trends and exciting opportunities for buyers and investors alike. Whether you're looking to purchase a holiday home or relocate to the picturesque French countryside, here's what you need to know about the current market conditions.
The trend of seeking rural retreats and countryside homes remains strong. Regions such as Provence, Dordogne, and Brittany are witnessing a surge in interest, driven by buyers seeking tranquility, space, and scenic beauty. Due to this heightened demand prices in rural areas have seen a moderate increase. However, there are still plenty of opportunities to find competitively priced properties in these regions.
Despite the current political uncertainty, the French property market is expected to maintain steady growth throughout the summer and into the autumn. The combination of strong demand, favourable financing conditions, and stable economic indicators bodes well for continued market vitality.
Summer presents a vibrant and dynamic landscape for the French property market. If you're looking to explore property options in France, now is a great time to take advantage of the opportunities available.
Spring 2024
In 2023 we saw a slight drop in total property sales, this was mainly due to the contrast to the years before where activity was fuelled by long-term low interest rates and frantic activity around the pandemic. Many of us were happy to see a more normal level of activity - it’s good for buyers and sellers alike.
As we enter into Spring 2024 we have seen the normal slower start of the year, with a lack of new properties coming to the market. However, with interest rates expected to start reducing, inflation likely to drop and other incentives by the French Government we fully expect 2024 to be a busy year.
For international buyers who tend to be cash buyers and not impacted by interest rates now is a great time to start that search. Being a cash buyer is always a positive - but with the market still relatively slow, and those vendors on the market motivated to sell, it is certainly a good time to search.
I would advise anyone thinking about buying in France to start now so as to get ahead of the game. Start by making some clear decisions on what you are looking for and where, start planning a trip over in Spring to get a feel for different areas. Then as properties become available and the market heats up you’ll be in the best position to move quickly and secure your dream home.
If you are considering making the move now or in the future please do contact me to discuss your search further.
French Entree
In this article I outline the benefits of using a buying agent and what you should be looking out for when starting to engage the services of using a buying agent to find your dream home in France. To read the full article click here.