It’s been a remarkable year on the French Riviera, one defined by change, resilience, and opportunity.

When the election results came in last Fall, our phones started ringing non-stop. Americans were looking for a Plan B: a secure, stable, and inspiring place to invest or relocate. The French Riviera quickly became that place.

Shortly after, we closed on a two-bedroom panoramic sea-view condo in Villefranche-sur-Mer for just €445,000, purchased by a first-time homebuyer from San Francisco under 40. It was a beautiful moment that captured what so many are seeking: value, lifestyle, and peace of mind.

The Currency Challenge

As we moved into Q1, the America First policy and renewed tariff concerns began to ripple through the foreign exchange market. Where we once enjoyed near parity (1:1) between the dollar and euro, the rate has now slipped to $1.15 per euro, a 15% loss in purchasing power for U.S. buyers, with the potential to slide further.

While this shift has challenged Americans abroad, France remains a buyer’s market. And our clients have continued to seize the moment.

Success Stories Across the Riviera

In Q2, we closed on a dream villa in Mougins, a four-bedroom home with pool, outdoor kitchen, guest house, and gated entry. Perfectly located near international schools and Sophia Antipolis, Europe’s premier tech park, this sale showcased the enduring appeal of lifestyle investments with strong fundamentals.

Summer brought another milestone, a three-bedroom, fully renovated sea-view apartment in Villefranche-sur-Mer, within a gated residence of high standing, featuring a pool, boule court, and panoramic views of the Mediterranean. At €1.17 million, it represented tremendous value compared to major U.S. coastal markets.

We closed the year in Old Town Antibes, representing an American buyer from Georgia on a fully renovated one-bedroom in the pedestrian center for €279,000 — a reminder that there’s something for every buyer profile here on the Côte d’Azur.

Market Outlook: 2026 and Beyond

According to the Mayor’s Office in Nice, one in five property buyers in the city is now American. Prices remain highly competitive, interest rates in France are roughly 2% lower than in the U.S., and Americans can qualify for financing with as little as 30% down.

We also continue to strengthen our partnership with Cogedim, one of France’s premier home builders. Their new developments offer ten-year builder guarantees, reduced or free notary fees, and eco-responsible design — ideal for buyers seeking security, sustainability, and style.

Looking Ahead

As we move into the new year, our mission remains clear: to be the trusted resource for Americans who wish to buy, relocate, or invest in the French Riviera. From Saint-Tropez to Menton, and across the Provençal countryside, our team is here to guide you — from dream to keys in hand.

Many of our clients now earn income from their homes while enjoying them three-quarters of the year, creating the perfect blend of pleasure and performance.

Thank you to everyone who has been part of this incredible year. Here’s to 2026 — may it bring new opportunities, lasting partnerships, and continued appreciation for all who invest in the Riviera lifestyle.

If you haven’t already tuned into our latest webinar on How to Buy Your Dream Home in France please click here.

— Asher McInerney Realtor on the Riviera | Helping Americans buy with confidence in France 📩 asher@fraccthomes.com | 📞 +1 (415) 710-2451 #FrenchRivieraLiving #BuyPropertyInFrance #InvestInFrance #FracctHomes #RealtorOnTheRiviera