For some people, the idea of owning french riviera property in the South of France conjures up the image of rambling stone cottage in Provence or on the Riviera. For these people, the thought of doing renovation works and paying for ongoing maintenance comes with the territory and actually adds to the charm.

Many others however, are looking for a hassle free purchase, a safe investment property which needs little or no work. Whether buying purely as an investment or looking for a holiday home, a growing number of overseas buyers opt for a new build development of villas or apartments.

There are many advantages to buying newly built property. As well as the fact that the property will be brand new and pristine when delivered, there are also builders’ guarantees for 10 years, you pay reduced notaires fees and you are also exempt from paying some local taxes etc for the first two years.

Many developments are marketed weeks or months before construction works begin, and properties are available to buy “Off-plan”. Purchasing off-plan (or pre-construction) is when a buyer commits to a purchase from architects drawings before building work has commenced. Buyers who are prepared to move quickly pre-construction will find that they are more likely to be able to secure the plot of their choice and have more input in the layout and finishing of the property. Not to mention that as building work starts and the development progresses, prices for subsequent homes are usually adjusted upwards – a satisfying outcome for purchasers.

Aside from all the benefits however, it is important to buy through a reputable company. A bank guarantee is required by law to be in place to protect the clients funds, this means that in the unlikely event that the project does not reach completion, all monies are returned to the purchasers – plus interest.

The South of France has a large range of developments available, under construction or planned for the near future ranging from studio apartments to state of the art villas. A particularly interesting investment scheme which is extremely popular with the overseas buyer is the “Leaseback scheme”.