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Buying an apartment in Paris: neighbourhoods worth a second look!

Life of the region

02/09/2020

Are you ready to make your plans to buy an apartment in Paris a reality? You’ll naturally be wondering which are the best neighbourhoods to invest in. Whether you’re looking for a primary residence in the French capital, a second home or a rental investment, here are the best sectors to focus on.

Austerlitz, a diverse up-and-coming neighbourhood

The renovation of Austerlitz train station in Paris is part of a series of projects to revive the sector: tens of thousands of square feet of office space and shops are set to be created as part of the project. Still affordable for buyers looking for an apartment in Paris, this area will see its attractiveness increase and prices climb… Buying now is therefore an opportunity to make a capital gain on the resale. Just a 10-minute walk from Notre-Dame, this neighbourhood is particularly popular among renters. Magnificent Haussmannian buildings stand side-by-side with modern constructions.

Canal Saint-Martin, the neighbourhood sweeping buyers off their feet

The Canal Saint-Martin area has been making a name for itself as one of the most coveted in Paris for several years now among buyers looking for an apartment. As soon as the weather turns warmer in spring and summer residents flock to the banks of the canal to enjoy the fresh air and the surroundings. The area between République and Belleville is teeming with lively and trendy streets home to a relatively miscellaneous selection of properties. It is also home to the famous Place de la Bastille. It is one of the safe bets for rental investments, and is also popular with people looking to live in a vibrant area close to all everyday facilities.

Vaugirard, residential and family-friendly

If you long for a peaceful family life in Paris, check out the apartments for sale in the 15th arrondissement, and more specifically the area around Vaugirard. The neighbourhood is particularly sprawling and home to a large number of residents due to its size... But it remains airy and has a lower population density than other areas! The arrival of the Parc Georges Brassens has provided another welcome haven, and the spacious Parc André Citroën is just minutes away. The sector also boasts bustling shopping streets, like Rue Vaugirard and Rue de la Convention. With their entirely different atmosphere, some of the cul-de-sacs lined with houses reserve some incredible surprises: modern lofts are among the opportunities to be seized on the Parisian real estate market…

Batignolles, the ultimate hip neighbourhood

The reputed Batignolles area is located in the 17th arrondissement, between Place de Clichy and the well-known Parc Monceau. Standing on Place du Dr Félix Lobligeois, it’s easy to see how exceptional this area truly is. The little fountain, the charming terraces under the shade of the trees, local shops and a small church - a real village feel within the capital. Not far from Square des Batignolles and the reputed organic market (on the eponymous boulevard) is the Épinettes neighbourhood home to the Cité des Fleurs which continues to remain popular among many buyers in Paris. A clear choice if you’re looking to live in a verdant environment without leaving the city.

Saint-Germain-des-Prés, unique heritage

On Paris’ Left Bank, close to the iconicLatin Quarter, Saint-Germain-des-Prés is one of the sectors considered a safe bet when buying an apartment in Paris. This little village is home to Paris’ oldest abbey, dating from the year 543. Take a stroll along the tree-lined streets, where the bar terraces make a great place to enjoy a drink with friends. Some, such as the Café de la Flore, hold a place in history as major literary venues in the 20th century: Jean-Paul Sartre, Albert Camus and Guillaume Apollinaire were once regulars here. Living just next to the Jardins du Luxembourg and the Pont des Arts is a thing of dreams… Which is why apartments for sale in this area are snapped up quickly.

Le Marais, for admirers of fine houses

If you want to buy an apartment in Paris so that you can live in a period building, the Marais neighbourhood is home to superb properties built between the 16th and 17th centuries. Many boast fantastic surface areas, but small apartments can also be found. However, mid-sized properties are less common in the neighbourhood. In general, apartments for sale near the Marais or Place des Vosges don’t stay long on the market, as opportunities are rare. So if you’re looking to invest here, don't hesitate to seek the advice of a real estate professional.

Understanding the Paris property market to make an investment!

This selection of neighbourhoods can help you gain ideas to hone your plans to buy an apartment in Paris. However, if you’re ready to take the leap, remember that this list is not exhaustive, other neighbourhoods may also be of interest to you! In the 80 or so administrative districts of Paris, apartment prices remain relatively stable year on year, even if some see their value decline or increase slightly. Take the time to enquire about the market to maximize the chances of success for your investment.