European property after the referendum

Is 2016 the year that Brits make that step to buy that property abroad,  like most financial committments there is a good time to buy and a not so good time to buy.  Anyone looking to buy in Europe would be now buying into a flat property market with the exchange rate well in their favour, that makes buying at the moment a good time to buy.

The biggest factor for many looking to buy a property in Europe is whether the UK votes yes or no to the upcoming referendum which is expected to be as early as June or July this year. Those looking to move permanantly will definately want the assurance of being part of the European Union so that they can participate in the benefits of that country which already apply to their  Nationals, primarily that would be health care.

Only this week I watched a TV  program that followed various people trying to make a life for themselves in Spain, it varied from a couple from Essex who bought a bar/restaurant to a guy on his own who was looking to work in the entertainment business as a magician. The program brought back memories of when we experienced the last boom of Brits searching a new life abroad back in the early part of 2000, the circumstances were pretty similar with low European prices, beneficial exchange rates and those who had a property to sell to finance the project were in the position of selling top of the market and looking to relocate to France.

Back in those days in early 2000 France was top of the list for Brits buying abroad, they were searching out all the corners of the country for their idealic countryside or waterfront property. Both holiday homes and permanent residence were the objectives, at present there is a trickle of Brits looking to buy property in France, that could turn into a flood if the yes vote wins the referendum, especially for those looking to retire and wanting to be fully covered by the health system.

France is a large country and the regions vary quite a bit in both culture and climate, Rightmove Overseas offers a buyers guide on their site along with overseas properties for sale. One area that stands out is that of Burgundy, stretching from just south of Paris to almost the outskirts of Lyon, it is a region offering a lifestyle suited to both young and old, it is has easy access from the UK and easy access to other parts of Europe.

Will we see European property prices surge on a buying spree by Brits after the referendum? that is if the UK votes to stay in the EU, now is the time to be looking ready for the event.

 

 

Allen Walkey

Highly experienced businessman with a successful career in property sales and investment both in the UK and abroad. Now a freelance writer and blogger for the property and Investment Industry, keeping readers up-to-date with changes and events in a rapidly changing world.

You May Also Enjoy

Breaking News

Halifax House Price Index November – Thoughts from the Industry

Halifax House Price Index for November 2025 shows that: – On a monthly basis, house prices were broadly unchanged in November (0%) after a 0.5% monthly increase in October Annually, house prices were up 0.7% versus this time last year. As a result, the current average property price is now £299,892.   Here are some…
Read More
Breaking News

Halifax House Price Index November 2025

House prices in November 2025 were flat compared to the same month a year earlier. UK house prices hold steady as yearly growth slows • House prices were broadly unchanged in November (+0.0%) after a +0.5% rise in October • Average property price is now £299,892, edging up to another new record high • Annual…
Read More
Rightmove logo
Breaking News

Skipton in North Yorkshire crowned 2025’s happiest place to live

Skipton in North Yorkshire has been crowned the happiest place to live in Great Britain for the first time, in an annual study completed by thousands of residents across more than 200 local areas Residents of Skipton ranked the market town particularly highly for its access to nature and green spaces, the friendliness of the…
Read More
Breaking News

National Estate Agent Day

iamproperty has created a new date for the property industry calendar – the first National Estate Agent Day. The awareness day has been created and registered by iamproperty and has an official spot in the UK National Awareness Days calendar starting next year on 26th February. This annual calendar date will become the official celebration…
Read More
Estate Agent Talk

Propertymark urges households to check carbon monoxide alarms and heating systems

As temperatures drop and households across the UK rely more heavily on boilers, gas fires, and open flames, Propertymark is urging everyone to take simple steps to protect themselves from the dangers of carbon monoxide (CO), the “silent killer.” Carbon monoxide has no smell, taste, or colour, yet even small amounts can cause a serious…
Read More
Estate Agent Talk

Autumn Budget 2025: Key advice for homeowners, buyers and landlords

The UK’s Autumn Budget delivered several headline-grabbing policies that will directly shape the future of the housing market. While initial reactions ranged from concern to confusion, property experts say the sector should take a measured, informed view, particularly as many changes won’t take effect for several years. From understanding who is going to face implications,…
Read More