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.
You May Also Enjoy
Housing market springs back into life
29% of homebuyers leaving sellers at risk
The most in-demand holiday home destinations
Two Weeks to Go for First Phase of Renters’ Rights Act
Housing Insight Report: February 2026
