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

HMRC ramps up scrutiny of residential property valuations as it cracks down on inheritance tax avoidance

  Taxman’s requests for help from the Valuation Office Agency with property valuations in IHT returns rises nearly 25% Rise reflects HMRC’s increased efforts to recover revenue from underreported and misvalued estates.   HM Revenue & Customs is increasingly challenging residential property valuations in inheritance tax (IHT) returns, with the number of cases referred to…
Read More
Breaking News

Renters urged to understand their new rights before major law change

With just one week until the first phase of the Renters’ Rights Act comes into effect, renters across England are being urged to understand how the changes will affect their rights, tenancies and day-to-day renting experience. From 1 May 2026, the new legislation will introduce wide-ranging reforms designed to provide greater stability, clearer rights, and…
Read More
Adding second coat of varnish floor boards
Home and Living

The Foundation of Your Home: Why Your Subfloor Dictates Your Flooring Destiny

In the field of residential and commercial renovation, the aesthetic selection of a floor covering—be it the grain of a hardwood plank, the texture of a stone tile, or the finish of a luxury vinyl—often commands the most attention. However, from a technical perspective, the long-term performance and durability of these materials are entirely dependent…
Read More
Breaking News

Almost £1.4m difference in property prices between the start and finish lines of London Marathon

The latest property market analysis from London’s number one lettings and sales estate agency brand, Foxtons, has revealed that there’s a difference of almost £1.4m in the average sold price from the starting point of the London Marathon and the finish line. As London’s largest estate agent, Foxtons holds an unrivalled view of the London…
Read More
Rightmove logo
Breaking News

Demand drops year-on-year for commercial property from high base

Three out of four of the main commercial property sectors saw a yearly decline in demand both in terms of leasing and investment in the first quarter of the year, amid speculation about interest rate hikes following the start of the war in Iran. According to Rightmove’s Commercial Insights Tracker for Q1 2026, the office…
Read More
Breaking News

Property market is improving

Property market is improving, but more sellers are cutting prices and withdrawing from the market The latest market data analysis from House Buyer Bureau has found that whilst the property market is showing signs of improvement, more sellers are still being forced to cut their asking price, endure a failed sale, or withdraw from the…
Read More