Centre-Val de Loire is one of France’s most enchanting regions, known for its rich heritage, grand châteaux and gentle countryside. While it’s not the most well-trodden area for foreigners, buying property in Centre-Val de Loire offers excellent value and a quieter French lifestyle without straying too far from the capital.
If you’re considering purchasing a home in France for retirement, holidays or investment purposes, Centre-Val de Loire is well worth a closer look. This guide explores why the region is so appealing, what kind of property your budget will get you, and the steps to take for a smooth buying experience in 2025.
Contents
- Why buy should be buying property in Centre-Val de Loire
- Property types and prices
- The buying process step by step
- Legal and financial considerations
- Final thoughts
Buying property in Centre-Val de Loire could mean overlooking the Blaise river
Why you should be buying property in Centre-Val de Loire
Centre-Val de Loire sits in the literal heart of France. Famous for the Loire Valley – a UNESCO World Heritage site – it’s an area of lush vineyards, winding rivers and elegant towns steeped in history. The region comprises six departments, including Indre-et-Loire, Loir-et-Cher and Indre, and is prized for its balance between rural charm and convenience.
Unlike more saturated markets such as the Côte d’Azur or Paris, Centre-Val de Loire remains relatively untouched by mass foreign ownership. Most departments report that under 1% of properties are owned by non-residents. The exception is Indre, where that figure is slightly higher at 3-5%.
The area’s scenic beauty, combined with its proximity to Paris (with high-speed TGV rail links from Tours and Orléans), makes it attractive for buyers seeking a tranquil lifestyle and good connectivity. You’ll enjoy regional delicacies, lively open-air markets and some of France’s best wines – including Pouilly-Fumé, Chinon and Vouvray. With numerous walking and cycling routes, it’s perfect for active buyers who want an escape into nature.
For a breakdown of purchasing property abroad, get your free copy of our France Buying Guide:
Property types and prices
Centre-Val de Loire offers a broad mix of housing – from châteaux on the edge of vineyards to townhouses in historic centres or country cottages nestled among sunflower fields. Affordability is a key advantage here, especially compared to the more internationally recognised regions.
In the main cities like Tours and Orléans, you’ll find modern apartments and townhouses. The average property in Tours commands around €2,800 per square metre, while in Orléans it sits closer to €2,600. For those seeking rural value, areas like Châteauroux in the Indre department offer spacious houses or renovation-ready farmhouses for as little as €80,000–€130,000.
For buyers dreaming of a slice of history, period homes abound – especially Maison de Maîtres, manor houses and even small châteaux in need of restoration. These often sit on sizeable plots and offer excellent scope for holiday rentals or multi-generational living. In towns like Amboise and Villandry, you’ll find homes with intricate stonework, timber features and long-established gardens.
Farmhouses and detached family homes are widely available, particularly in rural departments. The average resale price for a house is around €150,000–€180,000, depending on condition and location. These represent excellent value for money, especially given their space and potential for customisation.
The buying process step by step
Buying in Centre-Val de Loire follows the standard French process, whether you’re a resident or a foreigner. The system is highly regulated, making it a safe choice for overseas buyers. Here’s a step-by-step overview to help you plan your journey:
- Set your budget: Decide how much you’re willing to spend, factoring in additional costs like taxes, legal fees and property maintenance.
- Research the region: Focus on departments that meet your criteria – whether that’s a lively town or peaceful countryside. Use our property portal, attend webinars or connect with a bilingual estate agent through our experts page.
- Secure your currency strategy: Exchange rates fluctuate daily. Locking in a rate with a forward contract through a currency expert helps protect your budget. Book a call with Smart Currency Exchange to explore your options.
- Visit properties: Book a viewing trip to explore homes in person. Your Overseas Home can help arrange an itinerary and connect you with agents before you travel. For a detailed breakdown before you go, download our Viewing Trip Guide.
- Make an offer: Once you’ve found a suitable property, your agent will support you in submitting an offer. Offers are often accepted below the asking price, particularly if the property has been on the market for a while.
- Sign the compromis de vente: This is the preliminary agreement. At this point, you’ll usually pay a deposit of around 10% while the notaire carries out due diligence.
- Final ownership transfer: Around 8–12 weeks later, you’ll sign the acte de vente, pay the remaining amount and officially take ownership. The notaire oversees the process to ensure everything is legal and binding.
Legal and financial considerations when buying property in Centre-Val de Loire
Understanding the legal aspects of buying in France is essential. The notaire plays a pivotal role in drafting the sales contract, confirming that the property is free of debt or legal issues, and managing tax transfers. You should also consider hiring an independent bilingual lawyer to review any contracts, especially if French is not your first language.
Notaire fees typically range from 7–8% of the purchase price for older properties. These fees are lower for new builds – usually around 2–3%. Estate agents in France usually include their commission in the asking price, although this should always be clarified upfront.
Additional costs include local property taxes such as taxe foncière and taxe d’habitation. Though the latter is being phased out for main residences, second homeowners may still be liable. Ensure you budget for ongoing maintenance – especially if you’re buying an older or period property with extensive grounds or outbuildings.
If you’re financing the property with a mortgage, most French banks will expect a deposit of 20–30% from non-residents. Documentation requirements can be strict. Lenders will review proof of income, debt levels and exchange rate exposure. Working with a mortgage broker who understands the needs of international buyers can help you compare lenders and secure favourable terms quickly.
Finally, if you’re buying in a currency other than euros, speak to a foreign exchange provider to avoid costly surprises. A fluctuation of even 1–2% during your buying period can impact your final budget dramatically.
Final thoughts
Centre-Val de Loire blends quality of life, nature and history in a remarkably accessible location. With fewer international buyers, there’s less competition for homes and greater potential to uncover hidden gems – be it a former vineyard, stone farmhouse or elegant manor house.
The property-buying process in France is predictable and secure, with a clear legal framework and plenty of support available. Whether you’re hoping to relocate, invest or establish a holiday retreat, Centre-Val de Loire offers affordability and authenticity for international buyers looking to make the most of what France has to offer in 2025.
To begin your journey, speak to one of our experienced property consultants today.
