Situated in the west of France along the Atlantic coast, the Vendée is a department within the Pays de la Loire region that is fast gaining attention among international property buyers. Buying property in the Vendée offers a mix of sun-soaked beaches, peaceful countryside and a community-oriented way of life, it presents a compelling option for those seeking both quality and value. Unlike more saturated coastal markets like the Riviera or Brittany, the Vendée offers a gentler pace and a more accessible property market.
Whether you’re looking for a holiday home, permanent residence or retirement destination, this article will guide you through everything you need to know about buying property in the Vendée in 2025. From choosing your location to understanding legal requirements and securing a mortgage, we’ll break down the process step-by-step.
Contents
- Why buy in the Vendée?
- What kind of homes are available?
- Steps to buying property in the Vendée
- Typical costs and taxes
With both beaches and access to beautiful rural landscape, buying property in the Vendée offers a great deal
Why buy in the Vendée?
The Vendée combines natural beauty, affordability and a relaxed lifestyle that appeals to both French and international buyers. If you’re seeking a French home that offers value for money while maintaining a high quality of life, this region has distinct advantages.
The coastline is a major draw, boasting over 140 kilometres of sandy beaches and resorts. Popular with French families but less crowded than the Riviera, the Vendée enjoys a mild oceanic climate that means warm, dry summers and comparatively mild winters. According to Weather and Climate, the region receives more than 2,000 hours of sunshine annually, making it one of the sunniest spots on the French Atlantic coast.
Inland, you’ll find gently rolling hills, lush forests and winding rivers, providing endless opportunities for hiking, cycling and canoeing. There is also a strong sense of local community, particularly in rural towns and villages. Markets, festivals and seasonal events contribute to an active local calendar and many British buyers appreciate how easy it is to integrate, especially where local councils offer support for newcomers.
Most importantly, the Vendée offers a slower pace of life. Whether you plan to relocate or buy a holiday home, this region makes it easy to unwind – without giving up on essential services or accessibility. It’s a three-hour drive from major Channel ports like Saint-Malo and Cherbourg, and about 90 minutes from Nantes airport, which has direct flights to the UK and other European countries. If you are looking to rent your home, then make sure you look into property investment in France.
For a more detailed look at purchasing abroad, claim you free copy of our France buying guide:
What kind of homes are available when buying property in the Vendée?
The property market in the Vendée is diverse and caters to a wide range of buyer profiles. Whether you’re looking for a stone farmhouse, a coastal villa or a compact apartment, availability is generally good and prices remain competitive compared to more saturated parts of France.
According to INSEE data, over 70% of homes in the Vendée are owner-occupied main residences, and around 24% are used as second homes. This shows the strong local demand but also signals a healthy market for holiday properties – especially near the coast. Detached houses are the dominant property type, especially inland, where you’ll find charming farmhouses, village homes and 19th-century cottages.
In coastal towns and cities like Les Sables-d’Olonne, La Tranche-sur-Mer and Saint-Jean-de-Monts, modern apartments with sea views are available, although they do command a premium. These towns are particularly popular with both tourists and retirees, making them ideal for buy-to-let investors focused on seasonal or long-term rental income.
Many homes come with generous gardens, outdoor terraces and sometimes even pools. Building styles vary, with traditional stonework, timber-beamed interiors and terracotta roofs common among older properties. For buyers looking for modern amenities, plenty of new-build developments are springing up in more urbanised areas like Challans and La Roche-sur-Yon, the department’s administrative centre.
As of early 2025, average resale property prices in the Vendée hover around €160,000, according to Notaires de France. Inland properties can sell for under €120,000, while coastal real estate with sea views often starts from €250,000 or more. As ever, location, condition and proximity to beaches or commuter routes will have a significant impact on price.
Home to yellow, golden sands to rival the south, buying property in the Vendée puts the beach on your doorstep
Steps to buying property in the Vendée
Buying property in the Vendée follows the standard process seen throughout France, which is designed to be transparent and legally robust. Here’s what you need to know:
- Define your criteria: Decide on your ideal property type, budget, proximity to amenities and whether you want to be near the coast or inland. This will help guide your research and keep your viewing list focused.
- Research the local market: Use government data portals such as Demande de Valeur Foncière to look up recent sale prices. This is more accurate than relying on asking prices alone.
- Prepare your finances: If you need a mortgage, begin speaking with a French mortgage broker early. Most non-residents will need to provide at least a 20–30% deposit and supporting documents with certified translations. Currency transfer planning is also essential. Fluctuations can add or subtract thousands from your budget. Consider using a forward contract from a specialist provider.
- Choose your experts: Work with a bilingual notaire for legal checks. An independent lawyer is also advisable for international buyers. Your Overseas Home has a network of recommended professionals.
- Arrange viewings: We recommend booking an inspection trip to explore shortlisted areas and meet local estate agents. Plan appointments in advance with help from property consultants or at a Your Overseas Home virtual event.
- Make an offer: Once you’ve found the right property, submit your offer in writing, often with assistance from your estate agent. If accepted, you’ll sign the preliminary contract (compromis de vente) and pay a deposit – usually 5–10%.
- Finalise the sale: The notaire will carry out legal checks, register the contract and set a signing date for the acte de vente. Completion typically takes 8–12 weeks. You’ll pay the remaining purchase amount on completion.
Remember, a well-planned purchase avoids delays and unexpected costs. Our experts are available to walk you through the process.
Typical costs and taxes
As with any French property transaction, buyers in the Vendée must account for several additional costs beyond the agreed sale price. These typically include:
- Notaire fees: These cover stamp duty, registration taxes and the notary’s own professional fee. For older properties, these usually add up to around 7–8% of the sale price. For new builds, they may be closer to 2–3%.
- Estate agent’s fee: This may be paid by the buyer or seller – always check who is responsible. It is often included in the listing price but can represent up to 6% of the sale amount.
- Homeownership taxes: You’ll pay both taxe foncière (land tax) and taxe d’habitation if the home is furnished and not your principal residence. Some buyers may also face empty home surcharges depending on the municipality.
- Utility setup and insurance: Budget for setting up gas, water, electricity and internet. Home insurance is mandatory at completion and costs vary depending on property size and location.
Depending on your personal situation, additional costs – such as translator fees, mortgage arrangement costs or inheritance planning – may also apply. Consulting a bilingual legal adviser before signing any contracts is highly recommended.
By factoring in these costs early and working with experienced professionals, your purchase in the Vendée can proceed smoothly and without hidden surprises. For tailored advice and assistance, speak to one of our property consultants today.
