Nouvelle-Aquitaine remains one of the top regions in France for international buyers – particularly those travelling from the UK. Stretching from the Spanish border to the Atlantic coast and inland to the foothills of the Massif Central, this vast and diverse region offers something for everyone. Whether you dream of a coastal retreat near La Rochelle, a chateau in the Dordogne or a vineyard close to Bordeaux, buying property in Nouvelle-Aquitaine is rich in opportunity.
Below we will help you understand the property landscape, the buying process and what daily life might look like in this beautiful part of southwest France. It’s designed to give you a practical overview, all updated for 2025, and provide actionable insights for anyone considering a move or purchase here.
Contents
- Why buy in Nouvelle-Aquitaine?
- Property types and prices
- Popular departments in the region
- How to buy property here
- Understanding the costs
- Plan your viewing trip
Deux Sevres is just one of the places you could call home after buying property in Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Why you should be buying property in Nouvelle-Aquitaine
With nearly six million residents and an array of towns, cities and rural gems, Nouvelle-Aquitaine is one of France’s most attractive regions for both lifestyle and investment. It’s around the size of Ireland and home to 12 departments, including the Dordogne, Charente, Gironde and Landes. Its location means you can enjoy skiing in the Pyrenees during winter and surfing on the Atlantic coast in summer – all without leaving the region.
The infrastructure continues to improve in 2025, with high-speed rail links from Paris reaching Bordeaux in under two hours. Angoulême, Limoges and Poitiers also benefit from excellent transport connections, making trips back to the UK, or elsewhere in Europe, relatively easy. That accessibility, paired with a warm climate and rich regional culture, helps attract international buyers year-round.
Healthcare and education services are reputable across the region, while the local food scene – from Atlantic seafood and Bordeaux wine to Perigord truffles – attracts countless culinary enthusiasts. Whether you’re retiring, investing in a second home or pursuing a new life abroad, Nouvelle-Aquitaine offers both value and vibrancy.
For a deeper look at purchasing property, claim your free copy of our France Buying Guide:
Property types and prices
The diversity of Nouvelle-Aquitaine is matched by the variety of its property market. From cottages and barns under €100,000 in quieter areas like Haute-Vienne or Creuse, to stately homes and seafront apartments over €500,000 in Bordeaux and Biarritz, there’s a home for every budget.
In early 2025, average property prices in the region are around €2,750 per square metre. However, prices vary widely by location:
- Limousin (e.g. Haute-Vienne, Creuse): Around €1,500 per m² – this is one of the most affordable areas in France.
- Dordogne or Charente: Expect €1,800–€2,300 per m² for village homes or traditional stone properties.
- Bordeaux: Now averaging over €4,500 per m² due to rising demand and limited supply.
Renovation properties can still be found for under €60,000 in many parts of the region. These require careful budgeting for works, but offer the chance to create a bespoke home in the French countryside. Be aware that planning permissions and builder availability vary based on department, so local advice is essential before committing.
Popular departments in the region
Each department in Nouvelle-Aquitaine has something different to offer. Here are some hotspots to consider in 2025:
Dordogne
Famed among British buyers, the Dordogne combines historical charm with lush landscapes. It’s excellent for outdoor pursuits like canoeing, walking and biking, and home to some of France’s most beautiful villages. Expect a strong expat community and a buoyant short-term rental market. Read our in-depth coverage about buying property in the Dordogne.
Charente
This peaceful rural department is known for its Romanesque architecture and Cognac vineyards. Towns like Aubeterre-sur-Dronne and Confolens attract buyers looking for authenticity, tranquillity and affordability.
Lot-et-Garonne
With rolling hills, orchards and local farmers’ markets, this department is ideal for anyone seeking a sustainable lifestyle. Popular with retirees and remote workers alike, Lot-et-Garonne offers a slower pace of life and great value properties just an hour from Bordeaux.
Gironde
Home to Bordeaux, France’s most dynamic regional city, Gironde is packed with opportunity. It offers everything from restored wine estates to sleek modern apartments. The city’s growing tech scene, universities and international connections appeal to investors and professionals.
Charente-Maritime
Set on the Atlantic coast, Charente-Maritime offers seafood, sea air and chic harbourside towns like Royan and La Rochelle. It’s perfect for beach lovers wanting a relaxed but well-connected location, especially during the summer season. Read our in-depth coverage about buying property in Charante-Maritime.
Buying property in Nouvelle-Aquitaine means the La Rochelle’s old harbour is on your doorstep
How to buy property in Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Buying a home in Nouvelle-Aquitaine follows the standard process across France. To avoid delays and costly errors, it’s essential to work with professionals who are experienced in helping international buyers. Here’s how the buying journey unfolds:
- Define your brief: Set your non-negotiables – budget, property type and ideal location.
- Connect with local experts: Work with an English-speaking estate agent and notaire. Book an early consultation with a mortgage broker and tax adviser. Check our page of France experts to find these specialist services.
- Arrange your finances: Open a euro account early. Explore mortgage options and plan for currency transfers if needed.
- Make an offer: Once you find the right property, negotiate and submit your offer. If accepted, you’ll usually sign a Compromis de Vente and pay a 5–10% deposit.
- Complete the purchase: After legal checks, the sale finalises with the signing of the Acte de Vente. The notaire registers your ownership and you become the legal owner.
From the initial offer to completion, the full process usually takes 8–12 weeks. For buyers using a mortgage, it may extend by 2–3 weeks depending on lender approval times and document processing.
Understanding the costs
Like anywhere in France, buyers in Nouvelle-Aquitaine must budget beyond the asking price. In 2025, here are the key costs you should account for:
- Notaire fees: Typically 7–8% of the property price for resale homes. These cover legal duties and taxes. For newly built homes, you’ll pay closer to 2–3%.
- Estate agency fees: These can range from 4–6%, often factored into the asking price. Confirm whether the seller or buyer pays.
- Taxe foncière and taxe d’habitation: Annual property taxes vary by commune. Be sure to ask for recent bills when viewing a property.
- Currency exchange costs: Exchange rate shifts can significantly impact your final price. Use a specialist to lock in favourable rates and avoid extra transfer fees. Talk to Smart Currency Exchange to learn about your options.
If you plan to renovate or let out the property, factor in extra insurance, accounting and maintenance costs too. Local accountants and property managers can help you build a suitable annual budget.
Plan your viewing trip for buying property in Nouvelle-Aquitaine
A well-planned viewing trip is key to finding the right property. Start by researching shortlisted towns and villages online. Then line up a mix of appointments with agents or attend a Your Overseas Home virtual event to meet trusted local professionals before travelling.
Before your trip:
- Speak to a mortgage broker: If you’re planning to finance your purchase, get a pre-approval from a French bank or broker.
- Book appointments early: The best properties can move fast, especially in spring and late summer.
- Visit practical amenities: Check public transport, health services, shops and schools if you plan to relocate permanently.
Your Overseas Home consultants can help prepare a custom property shortlist and connect you with English-speaking agents and legal experts before you arrive. That way, you get the most from your time on the ground. Download your free copy of our Viewing Trip Guide for more detail.
Next steps
In 2025, Nouvelle-Aquitaine offers one of France’s most exciting property markets for international buyers. With its diverse lifestyle options, accessible locations and improving infrastructure, it remains a sound choice whether you’re retiring, relocating or simply looking for a better holiday home.
Need help getting started? Book a free consultation for independent advice and local insight.
Your dream home in France could be much closer than you think.
