Taking Note of Champagne

Last week, we witnessed a dream come true, like we often do. A couple whose life together began in the vineyards of Champagne have come full circle to realize their dream to spend the rest of their lives in the tranquility of those same fields with their two sons.

When they first came to us, they didn’t think it would be possible given their teachers’ salaries and the future expense of two college educations. With some creative thinking, good advisors and a lot of hard work, the possibility became viable and fully realized. Having signed on the dotted line Friday in the Notaire’s office in the tiny town of Essoyes, where the diamond-shaped property is situated, they had to pinch themselves that it was all real, then celebrated in the shade of the veranda next to their shining clear cool pool with a bottle of Champagne (of course!) till they had to head back to the U.S. to their working lives…temporarily, or at least for now.
Read all about it in today’s issue, along with what makes Essoyes so special besides champagne, as Renoir’s resting place and final retirement home, and the bubbling wine of the noble class that make the region famous around the world.
Note today’s hot properties in the region of Champagne, if you desire the beauty and serenity of the countryside. If not, we just spied a dream property on the corner of rue Vieille du Temple and rue des Coutures Saint-Gervais overlooking the garden of the Musée Picasso! Be sure to read all about this exceptional spacious three bedroom apartment at a prime location listed at 11,600€ per square meter!
Note the latest eye-opening information on Fractional Ownership…there are only a few shares left of Le Jardin Saint-Paul, so you won’t want to miss this tidbit and in today’s issue, we also discuss the role of the Notaire and a special offering from one of our important lenders, GE MoneyBank…so lots to learn and think about!
A Bientôt,

Adrian Leeds
Editor, French Property Insider
Email: [email protected]

P.S. Mark your calendars for…the conference call with Moneycorp on August 26th, the next House Hunters TV showing of “Settling Down in Paris” this coming October 1, 2007 at 11 p.m. and October 2 at 3 a.m., the next Living and Investing in France Real Estate Conference on October 13th and the I’m Not a Tourist Fair on October 14th. Scroll down for more information on all that’s happening!
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Volume V, Issue 31, August 9, 2007

In this issue:

* FREE Conference Call for FPI Subscribers!
* Raising a Glass to Champagne and Art
* The Necessity of the Notaire
* Understanding Notaire Fees
* Birthplace of Bubbly
* Young Buyers Find Their Place in the Sun
* Property Purchasers Look at Atlantic France
* Special 85% Property Loan — Limited Time Offer
* Owning a Piece of Paris at a Fraction of the Cost
* House Hunters International Encore in October
* Living and Investing in France Conference, October 13, 2007, Paris, France
* Expatica Welcome to France Fair, October 14, 2007
* FPI Property Consultation, Search and Relocation Solutions
* Today’s Currency Update from Moneycorp
* Next Parler Paris Après-Midi: September 11, 2007
* Hot Property Picks: Champagne Dreams
* Leasebacks: Colombages du Garden Club Phase III, France, Britanny / Normandy, Branville
* Managing Your FPI Subscription
* Classified Advertising: Parler Paris Apartments — NEW! Le Balcon Planté

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SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT FOR ALL FPI READERS:
Free Conference Call for all FPI Subscribers!
Meet Jody Cracknell from Moneycorp Currency Specialists along with Adrian Leeds, Editor of French Property Insider, when they teach you “How to Save Money Transferring Dollars to Euros” during this one-hour special event, exclusively for FPI Subscribers.
Date: August 26th, 2007
Time: 8 p.m. Paris Time, 11 a.m. PST
Please RSVP to this special event and we will send you the call details. Sign up now by emailing: info@adr
ianleeds.com
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The Region of Noble Wine and Famous Artists
By Adrian Leeds
In Sophia Coppola’s version of “Marie Antoinette,” Champagne overflows the glasses of the aristocrats like water. I have often wondered if the word “vignoble” actually means the wine of the noble class…and if so, Champagne is definitely it.
Champagne bubbles in more ways than one. There is the region of Champagne and then there is its premier product, the bubbly wine it’s so famous for. The vineyards abound, covering the subtle hillsides with leafy little vines and clusters of pure Champagne grapes that will eventually find their way into the bottles that get corked and uncorked with a pop at every special or even unspecial occasions.
On this special occasion, I didn’t bother to bring the Champagne. Instead I brought myself (by TGV, Train de Grande Vitesse) to the medieval half-timbered Champagne town of Troyes where my hosts, Janet Hulstrand and Steve Rueckert with their two sons, picked me up for an overnight stay in their just-purchased A-frame home in the heart of Champagne — a tiny town made famous by Pierre-Auguste Renoir who is buried there — Essoyes.
The celebration was in honor of Janet and Steve having signed the final “Acte de Vente” (sales deed) the previous day — a grueling event, thanks to a temperamental country Notaire who resented interference by the citified Parisian Notaire with whom he had to contend. “Tant pis” (too bad) — the deed was done and they are now the proud owners of a magnificent diamond shaped property, complete with the home, pool and future artist’s atelier for Steve, planted with a wide variety of beautiful trees, including a Sequoia and one they call the “Dr. Seuss” because of its comical shape.
This French town is where their lives together all began when as post students, they picked grapes to have an adventure while earning a few francs. Now, he a sculptor and teacher, she a writer, editor and teacher, with two sons soon to enter college, are planning for their future in this very place…Essoyes. When I first heard their story and saw photos of the property, I fell in love, too — with the romantic story, with this beautiful “nest” in Essoyes and with their inevitable future to live there the rest of their lives in bliss. With our help, they negotiated with the (now) former owner and the lending institutions, spoke with advisors and consultants to put them on the path to make their dream come true. There was no doubt that this MUST happen for them because it’s all part of the grander plan already set for them long ago by some mysterious fate.
There is something quite magical about this little corner of the world one cannot explain. As the sun set Saturday evening, the glow of the bright orange orb glistened through the bordering row of pine trees shedding a warm glow specifically on Janet’s face, illuminating her like a Madonna. When night fell, having had a sumptuous dinner at the patio table next to the backyard pool, we looked up to see the stars of the Big Dipper we never see from Paris. Overnight, you could hear the owls hooting from the tree tops. In the morning, a half-moon hung in the sky looking like a surrealistic element in a painting by René Magritte.
Renoir painted my favorite painting of his in this very spot — “Chemin montant dans les hautes herbes” — which hangs in the Musée d’Orsay in Paris. We visited the “chemin” and cast our eyes on the very scene as he had in 1875. His home and atelier still stand and one can visit the atelier. There are no original paintings there, but its a pleasure just to see the photos, letters, memorabilia and gifts.
His grave is nearby, where he is buried along with his three sons and his wife Aline who was a native of Essoyes. Atop the tomb stone is a bust of his head. Atop Aline’s, the bust of her head which was once there, is curiously missing. Not far down the road, the house in which Aline grew up is landmarked by a huge painted canvas copy of one of Renoir’s paintings of his son, Jean, with his nanny.
Steve and Janet have no doubt found the place where their true purpose in life will be discovered…as they make their plans to create a center for art, literature and culture, in collaboration with the administrators of the town of Essoyes…a place where anyone can come to fulfill their dreams as they have, and as Renoir had.
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Editor’s Note: Pierre-Auguste Renoir, born February 25, 1841, in Limoges; meets his future wife, Aline Charigot in 1879 and marries her in 1890 after having their first son, Pierre in 1885; buys a house in Essoyes in 1989 and in 1919 dies, being buried next to Aline, of course, in Essoyes.
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The Role of the Notaire
A Notaire is a French civil law notary, a public officer working under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Justice who gives authenticity to legal documents requiring formality under French Law. (Commonly family matters, real-estate deeds and business law).
Notaires are also property experts in France, with exclusive access to the M.I.N. database (which contains the information regarding property transactions).
This gives the Notaire unique insight into the property market, thus allowing him/her to value property, conduct transactions and deal with tax and financing matters.
All property matters in France must be negotiated by a qualified Notaire. Fees charged by Notaires are set by the French government.
The role of a notaire is to help you organize and transfer your assets. Notaires differ from consultants in estate management, such as bankers, insurers and independent estate planners, in that they always take a comprehensive approach and provide follow-up over the long term. They will assess every aspect of an estate and address the various factors that enter into a transaction, such as the estateholder’s age and number of family members, his or her objectives with regard to transferring assets, and the relevant tax law. This all-inclusive view is part of the legal security that notaires provide for their clients.
The notaire will work with you to assess your current situation in detail, and can help to plan a future asset transfer. And although no decision about your estate should be based on tax issues alone, your notaire can incorporate these concerns into your planning.
There are approximately 8,000 practicing notaires and more than 4,500 practices spread over all the territorial departments of France (including the overseas departments).
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With a Notaire, Who Pays What?
You’re planning to purchase or build a home. You’ve checked all the figures and you’re wondering what kind of financing you can afford. But don’t forget the added costs you must bear!
In virtually every case, the selling price for houses, flats or land targeted for development excludes the acquisition costs. This means that the buyer pays all expenses relating to the sale.
These expenses, commonly referred to as “notaire’s fees,” are added to the purchase price, but for the most part they’re paid neither to the seller nor to the notaire. So what happens to these famous fees? The answer is simple: they’re primarily paid as tax. The notaire is responsible for collecting them on behalf of the French government. Taxes aren’t limited just to what you earn (income tax, social security contributions, etc.) and what you own (property taxes, wealth tax, automobile registration). The tax bureau also assesses a tax on real estate when it changes hands.
For example, when you purchase a property worth €75,000, the acquisition costs you must pay over and above the price of the property amount to about €5,700. Taxes and disbursements (fees relating to zoning documents, the mortgage registry, the cadastral agency, etc.) account for most of these costs. There are numerous miscellaneous taxes. Some are calculated as a percentage of the transaction, while others are fixed amounts. The most significant is the land registry tax, also known as the tax on transfers without consideration. In our example, this represents about €3,700. In addition, there is the stamp tax assessed on each page of both the original notarial deed and the certified copy (the purchaser’s certificate of title), calculated at €6 per two-sided page in standard format. Deeds these days are often lengthy and the stamp tax can run into the hundreds of euros. To this is added VAT (19.60% on the notaire’s compensation) and the mortgage registry fees (0.10% on the price of the transaction).
Before committing to a property transaction, don’t hesitate to contact your notaire. Ask him or her to estimate the additional costs you’ll have to bear. You can also have the notaire calculate any other expenses you should plan for – if you’re applying for a loan from your bank, for example. Notaires provide a public service and are compensated at a set rate established by the Ministry of Justice and applicable throughout France. Only your notaire can provide you with precise information and detailed explanations.
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Champagne (Wine Region)
From Wikipedia
http://www.wikipedia.org
Location of the Champagne Province in France
The Champagne wine region (archaic English: Champany) is a historic province within the Champagne administrative province in the northeast of France. The area is best known for the production of the sparkling white wine that bears the region’s name. The region is about 100 miles (160 km) east of Paris. The viticultural boundaries of Champagne are legally defined and split into five wine producing districts within the administrative province — the Aube, Côte des Blancs, Côte de Sézanne Montagne de Reims, and Vallée de la Marne. The towns of Reims and Épernay are the commercial centers of the area.
Located at the northern edges of the wine growing world, the history of the Champagne wine region has had a significant role in the development of this unique terroir. The area’s close proximity to Paris promoted the regions economic success in its wine trade but also put the villages and vineyards in the path of marching armies on their way to the French capital. Despite the frequency of these military conflicts, the region developed a reputation for quality wine production in the early Middle Ages and was able to continue that reputation as the region’s producers began making sparkling wine with the advent of the great Champagne houses in the 17th & 18th centuries.
The principle grapes grown in the region include Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier. Pinot Noir is the most widely planted grape in the Aube region and grows very well in Montagne de Reims. Pinot Meunier is the dominant grape in the Vallée de la Marne r
egio
n. The Côte des Blancs is dedicated almost exclusively to Chardonnay.
Geography and Climate
The Champagne province is located near the northern limits of the wine world along the 49th parallel. The high latitude and mean annual temperature of 50°F (10°C) creates a difficult environment for wine grapes to fully ripen. Ripening is aided by the presence of forests which helps to stabilize temperatures and maintain moisture in the soil. The cool temperatures serve to produce high levels of acidity in the resulting grape which is ideal for sparkling wine.
During the growing season, the mean July temperature is 66°F. The average annual rainfall is 25 inches, with 1.8 inches falling during the harvest month of September. Throughout the year, growers must be mindful of the hazards of fungal disease and early spring frost.
Ancient oceans left behind chalk subsoil deposits when they receded 70 million years ago. Earthquakes that rocked the region over 10 million years ago pushed the marine sediments of belemnite fossils up to the surface to create the belemnite chalk terrain. The belemnite soil allows it to absorb heat from the sun and gradually release it during the night as well as provides good drainage. This soil contributes to the lightness and finesse that is characteristics of Champagne wine. The Aube area is an exception with predominately clay based soil. The chalk is also used in the construction of underground cellars that can keep the wines cool through the bottle maturation process.
History
The Carolingian reign saw periods of prosperity for the Champagne region beginning with Charlemagne’s encouragement for the area to start planting vines and continuing with the coronation of his son Louis the Pious at Reims. The tradition of crowning kings at Reims contributed to the reputation of the wines that came from this area. The Counts of Champagne ruled the area as an independent county from 950 to 1316. In 1314, the last Count of Champagne assumed the throne as King Louis X of France and the region became part of the Crown territories.
Military Conflicts
The location of Champagne played a large role in its historical prominence as it served as a “crossroads” for both military and trade routes. This also made the area open to devastation and destruction during military conflicts that were frequently waged in the area. In 451 A.D. near Châlons-en-Champagne Attila and the Huns were defeated by an alliance of Roman legions, Franks and Visigoths. This defeat was a turning point in the Huns’ invasion of Europe.
During the Hundred Years’ War, the land was repeatedly ravaged and devastated by battles. The Abbey of Hautvillers, including its vineyards, was destroyed in 1560 during the War of Religion between the Huguenots and Catholics. This was followed by conflicts during the Thirty Year War and the Fronde Civil War where soldiers and mercenaries held the area in occupation. It was not until the 1660s, during the reign of Louis XIV, that the region saw enough peace to allow advances in sparkling wine production to take place.
History of Wine Production
The region’s reputation for wine production dates back to the Middle Ages when Pope Urban II, a native Champenois, declared that the wine of Aÿ in the Marne département was the best wine produced in the world. For a time Aÿ was used as a shorthand designation for wines from the entire Champagne region, similar to the use of Beaune for the wines of Burgundy. The poet Henry d’Andeli’s work La Bataille des Vins rated wines from the towns of Épernay, Hautvillers and Reims as some of the best in Europe. As the region’s reputation grew, popes and royalty sought to own pieces of the land with Pope Leo X, Francis I of France, Charles V of Spain, and Henry VIII of England all owning vineyard land in the region. A batch of wine from Aÿ received in 1518 by Henry VIII’s chancellor, Thomas Cardinal Wolsey, is the first recorded export of wine from the Champagne region to England.
The still wines of the area were highly prized in Paris under the designation of vins de la rivière and vins de la montagne- wines of the river and wines of the mountain in reference to the wooded terrain and the river Marne which carried the wines down to the Seine and into Paris. The region was in competition with Burgundy for the Flemish wine trade and tried to capitalize on Reims’ location along the trade route from Beaune. In the 15th century, Pinot Noir became heavily planted in the area. The resulting red wine had difficulty comparing well to the richness and coloring of Burgundy wines, despite the addition of elderberries to deepen the color. This lead to a greater focus on white wines.
The Champagne house of Gosset was founded as a still wine producer in 1584 and is the oldest Champagne house still in operation today. Ruinart was founded in 1729 and was soon followed by Taittinger (1734), Moët et Chandon (1743) and Veuve Clicquot (1772).
The nineteenth century saw an explosive growth in champagne production going from a regional production of 300,000 bottles a year in 1800 to 20 million bottles in 1850.
Rivalry with Burgundy
A strong influence on Champagne wine production was the centuries old rivalry between the region and Burgundy. From the key market of Paris to the palace of Louis XIV of France at Versailles, proponents of Champagne and Burgundy would compete for dominance. For most of his life, Louis XIV would drink only Champagne wine with the support of his doctor Antoine d’Aquin who advocated the King drink champagne with every meal for the benefit of his health. As the King aged and his ailments increased, competing doctors would propose alternative treatments
with alternative wines, to sooth the King’s ills. One of these doctors, Guy-Crescent Fagon conspired with the King’s mistress to oust d’Aquin and have himself appointed as Royal Doctor. Fagon quickly attributed the King’s continuing ailments to champagne and ordered that only Burgundy wine must be served at the royal table.
This development had a ripple effect throughout both regions and in the Paris markets. Both Champagne and Burgundy were deeply concerned with the “healthiness” reputation of their wines, even to the extent of paying medical students to write theses touting the health benefit of their wines. These theses were then used as advertising pamphlets that were sent to merchants and customers. The Faculty of Medicine in Reims published several papers to refute Fagon’s claim that Burgundy wine was healthier than champagne. In response, Burgundian winemakers hired physician Jean-Baptiste de Salins, dean of the medical school in Beaune, to speak to a packed auditorium at the Paris Faculty of Medicine. Salins spoke favorably of Burgundy wine’s deep color and robust nature and compared it to the pale red color of Champagne and the “instability” of the wine to travel long distances and the flaws of the bubbles from when secondary fermentation would take place. The text of his speech was published in newspapers and pamphlets throughout France and had a damaging affect on champagne sales.
The war of words would continue for another 130 years with endless commentary from doctors, poets, playwrights and authors all arguing for their favorite region and their polemics being reproduced in advertisements for Burgundy and Champagne. On a few occasions, the two regions were on the brink of civil war. A turning point occurred when several Champagne wine makers abandoned efforts to produce red wine in favor of focusing on harnessing the effervescent nature of sparkling champagne. As the bubbles became more popular, doctors throughout France and Europe commented on the health benefits of the sparkling bubbles which were said to cure malaria. As more Champenois winemakers embarked on this new and completely different wine style, the rivalry with Burgundy mellowed and eventually waned.
Classifications and Vineyard Regulations
In 1927, viticultural boundaries of Champagne were legally defined and split into five wine producing districts — the Aube, Côte des Blancs, Côte de Sézanne Montagne de Reims, and Vallée de la Marne. This area covers 76,000 acres (310 km²) of vineyards around 300 villages that are home to 5,000 growers who make their own wine and 14,000 growers who only sell grapes.
The different districts produce grapes of varying characteristics that are blended by the champagne houses to create their distinct house styles. The Pinots of the Montagne de Reims that are planted on northern facing slopes are known for their high levels of acid and the delicacy they add to the blend. The grapes on the southern facing slope add more power and character. Grapes across the district contribute to the bouquet and headiness. The abundance of southern facing slopes in the Vallée de la Marne produces the ripest wines with full aroma. The Côte des Blancs grapes are known for their finesse and the freshness they add to blends with the extension of the nearby Côte de Sézanne offering similar though slightly less distinguished traits.
In 1942, the Comité Interprofessionnel du Vin de Champagne (CIVC) was formed with the purpose of protecting Champagne’s reputation and marketing forces as well as setting up and monitoring regulations for vineyard production and vinification methods. Champagne is the only region that is permitted to exclude AOC or Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée from their labels.
For each vintage, the CVIC rates the villages of the area based on the quality of their grapes and vineyards. The rating is then used to determine the price and the percentage of the price that growers get. The Grand Cru rated vineyards get 100 percent rating which entitles the grower to 100% of the price. Premier Crus are vineyards with 90-99% ratings while Deuxième Crus have 80-89% ratings.
Under appellation rules, around 8,820 pounds of grapes can be pressed to create up to 673 gallons of juice. The first 541 gallons are the cuvée and the next 132 gallons are the taille. Prior to 1992, a second taille of 44 gallons was previously allowed. For vintage champagne, 100% of the grapes must come from that vintage year while non-vintage wine is a blend of vintages. Vintage champagne must spend a minimum three years on its lees with some of premier champagne houses keeping their wines on lines for upwards of five to ten years. Non-vintage champagne must spend a minimum of 15 months on the lees.
Non-sparkling still wines, like those made around the village Bouzy, are sold under the appellation label Coteaux Champenois.
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Younger Buyers “Look for Overseas Property”
From Retire to the Sun
http://www.retiretothesun.com
A growing number of young buyers are looking for property overseas as house prices continue to rise, according to one expert.
High house prices in home countries are leading a new generation of homeowners to consider purchasing permanent houses in the sun, said French property expert Charles Smallwood.
He explained that people who have already retired to the sun are now downsizing and freeing up property for younger investors.
“As older people are selling their holiday homes, this creates excellent buying opportunities for the next generation of second-home owners,” the Chartered Surveyor and Managing Director of Agence L’Union said.
Mr. Smallwood went on to say that there is “strong evidence” that an increased number of hurdles facing new buyers in the UK and US could lead to “a continual demand from the younger generation to buy permanent homes abroad.”
The expert was speaking in response to advice from currency specialist Moneycorp that expatriates should use a specialist conversion service to send money back to friends and family.
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French Atlantic Coast Offers Potential
From Holiday Lettings
http://www.holidaylettings.co.uk
France’s Atlantic coast could offer a real alternative to the more traditional southern areas of the country, claims an overseas property expert.
Matthew Weston, manager of overseas mortgages at financial services group Blevins Franks, stressed that many people coming to France are looking to enjoy the local culture more than the climate and therefore are opting to stay away from the Spanish Costas.
This has benefitted the French Rivera region but has meant that property prices are becoming less affordable. Therefore, those with property along the Atlantic coast could be set to see an influx of new interest from holidaymakers.
Mr Weston explained: “The Atlantic still does very well – places like Poitou-Charente, Aquitaine and La Roche Sur Yon are attracting many investors. Some are even beginning to focus on Normandy and the Pas de Calais regions.”
A survey conducted by the Bank of Scotland concluded that France is the most popular European country among people aged over 45 who are considering buying a second home abroad and this is reflected in the number of Brits holidaying in the region.
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For a Limited Time Offer
85% Loan to Value to American Property Buyers
By GE MoneyBank
The conditions are as follows:
* American citizen(s) living and owing a home in the USA and with a clean credit record (must be provided)
* Retirees, employed and self employed
* House purchase only (refinance, cash out, equity release are EXCLUDED – sorry no exceptions)
* Programs available are: Flexicredit, Evoluto and Profilimmo 3 years
* 2nd home/holiday home purchase ONLY (no buy-to-let)
* Application must be fully documented, including income and outgoing documentation
* Max DTI is 38%
* Max Loan amount is 1m€
* Type of property: residential only (unusual properties are excluded i.e. barns and castles, or properties that need a lot of renovation)
* Pricing: please check with your Loan Officer
* Other fee: 1% loan arrangement fee
* Life insurance: our PPI is compulsory – no exceptions
Max term is 30 years
* Credit report must be provided by the borrower (either EQUIFAX or EXPERIAN)
* Property appraisal is compulsory
For more information, contact GE Money Bank, Mirela Matei, Client Manager, [email protected]
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A Less-Expensive Way to Own in Paris
By Andréa R. Vaucher
Published: August 8, 2007 in the New York Times
A couple found a one-bedroom apartment in Paris with an unlikely price tag of 82,000 euros, or a little more than $112,000.
Ever since she and her late husband spent their honeymoon in Paris more than 20 years ago, Dr. Iris Litt-Vaughan had dreamed of owning an apartment there…
Click here to read the rest of the article…http://www.nytimes.com/2007/08/08/realestate/greathomes/08iht-gh.html
but before you do…
There are a few things you should know.
1. Be careful. This fractional ownership seller could get the owners into trouble as the units are rented for income because French law says that if the French company, the SCI, generates income, it will be treated as a business and therefore there will be tax of 3% of the value of the property assessed every year.
2. Compare the price per square meter with the Fractional Ownership we are offering, Le Jardin Saint Paul. Their cost was 1745€ per square meter (only 47 square meters with a mansard roofline, compared to 1169€ per square meter for a 77.4 square meter apartment with no slanted walls.
3. Owners only get two definitive weeks per year for their one-twelfth share, and must return a second time each year for any additional weeks they want to use — it is a very awkward usage plan.
4. The apartment was offered on the market in June 2006 and isn’t sold out. Le Jardin Saint Paul was offered on the market only two months ago and is almost sold out before Paris Home Shares has signed the final Acte de Vente!
If you have ever wanted to own a pied-à-terre in Paris and don’t have enough money to buy more than a tiny
studio (or less!), or qualify for a loan, then you will wan
t to learn more about this incredible opportunity to be one of 12 owners of a a luxury two-bedroom apartment in the heart of Paris.
The fractional ownership apartment has been dubbed the “Jardin Saint-Paul,” and is located on rue Ferdinand Duval just off rue des Rosiers in the 4th arrondissement (which has existed since the 13th-century!). Rue des Rosiers has recently been cobblestoned for pedestrian use only, the boutiques have gotten chicer and has become a beehive of activity from all walks of life. Property in Paris on pedestrianized streets have all become more valuable and this particular part of Le Marais has started to top even the 6th and 7th.
The first shares at the lower price are gone! The new price has just one into effect…90,500€ per share. Don’t lose out by waiting too long to make your decision.
For more information, visit https://adrianleeds.com/wp-content/uploads/newsletters/frenchproperty/consultation or http://parishomeshares.net/available_properties.html
To act now, call or write Steve Navaro:
Phone: 303-793-0900
Email: [email protected]
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French Property Insider to be Aired on House Hunters International!!
New Dates and Times in October!
If you missed the show the first time around, now you have another chance to see Adrian Leeds live on House Hunters International!
Settling Down in Paris
Angela and Ben met in 2003 when they lived in Los Angeles working for the same clothing company. Now, the two are engaged to be married. When Ben started receiving frequent overseas work, the company believed he’d be more valuable in Paris, so they happily relocated. They immediately moved into a cozy rental in the 17th district near the Arc de Triomphe and started to explore the different neighborhoods of Paris. The pair is now ready to take the big leap and purchase an apartment to stay for good. Real estate agent Adrian Leeds is enlisted to help.
GUESTS:
Adrian Leeds
Property Search Consultant, Adrian Leeds Group
Web site: https://adrianleeds.com/wp-content/uploads/newsletters/frenchproperty/consultation
Episode HHINT-402
http://www.hgtv.com/hgtv/shows_hhint/episode/0,2756,HGTV_24956_50766,00.html
AIR TIMES:
• October 1, 2007 11 PM ET/PT
• October 2, 2007 3 AM ET/PT
Editor’s Note: Be sure to read the entire story about Ben and Angela on FPI issues: https://adrianleeds.com/wp-content/uploads/newsletters/frenchproperty/insider/members/content/pastissues/FPI_April_6_2006.html and https://adrianleeds.com/wp-content/uploads/newsletters/frenchproperty/insider/members/content/pastissues/FPI_June_22_2006.html
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Living and Investing in France Real Estate Conference!
October 13, 2007 at Chez Jenny, Paris
If you’ve always dreamed of owning your own “pied-à-terre” in Paris or home in the Provinces of France, perhaps as a future retirement home or for now as investment property rented part of the year…this power-packed one-day conference is a MUST.
Hosted by Adrian Leeds, long time resident of Paris, Editor of the Parler Paris Nouvellettre^® and French Property Insider weekly E-zine and John Howell, lead attorney for the International Law Partnership, London, this one day in Paris will point you in the right direction to make it really happen! Includes three course lunch and cocktail reception.
For more information and to register, visit: https://adrianleeds.com/wp-content/uploads/newsletters/frenchproperty/conference/LIF_Paris_Oct_2007/index.html
Or email Schuyler Hoffman at [email protected]
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I AM NOT A TOURIST
Expatica.com Welcome to France Fair
October 14th, 2007
Carrousel de Louvre, Paris
http://www.expatica.com/welcometofrance/
New to France or looking to make the most of expatriate life?
Get the information you need from companies and agencies specialized in expatriate services, from banks, investment firms and insurance companies to schools and tax agencies. You’ll find information on house hunting, finding a job, immigration and permits, staying long-term, and much more.
Meet the people who make expat life great, including the top clubs and associations, travel agents and sports teams.
Explore the expatriate life and your ambitions – higher education, career opportunities, your own business, travel and lifestyle possibilities. Every year, thousands of international managers and employees arrive in France. The I AM NOT A TOURIST Fair answers the 101 questions you have about
living here, in a unique envir
onment where you can meet the right people face to face.
News: Expatica is proud to announce that Sir Peter Westmacott, the newly arrived British Ambassador to France, will be on hand to give the opening ceremony at the Fair. We are thrilled to have Sir Westmacott participate in our event and thank the British Embassy for their continued support.
Adrian Leeds Group, LLC and John Howell & Co will be at Booth 92/93 — be sure to come by and visit us!
To order your FREE tickets, click here: http://www.expatica.com/welcometofrance/ticket_signup.asp
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Property Consultation, Search and Relocation Solutions
https://adrianleeds.com/wp-content/uploads/newsletters/frenchproperty/consultation
Let French Property Insider expert property consultants find your dream home in France for you. We consult with you to help you make the best decisions, ferret out the finest properties to meet your criteria, schedule the visits and accompany you, negotiate with the agencies and owners, recommend the Notaires and other professionals, schedule the signings and oversee the purchase with you from start to finish! You could never do it so easily on your own. Let us take the time and effort off your hands.
FPI Offers More Relocation Solutions!
Moving to Paris? Our experienced relocation expert will make your move easy and hassle-free. We offer complete property and relocation services normally only provided by employer hired relocation firms…but at a price much more affordable for individuals.
Download Complete Brochure
https://adrianleeds.com/wp-content/uploads/newsletters/frenchproperty/consultation/fpibrochure.pdf
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TODAY’S CURRENCY UPDATE
Visit the FPI Web site and click on the link on the left panel or click here for Currency Convertor by Moneycorp Global Money Services: https://adrianleeds.com/wp-content/uploads/newsletters/frenchproperty/insider/moneycorpconvertor.html
for up to the minute conversions of all major currencies.
Compare currency values easily and quickly by visiting:
https://adrianleeds.com/frenchproperty/loan/moneycorpconvertor.html
Charts
http://www.Moneycorp.co.uk/members/charts.asp
The charts below are updated every ten seconds.
The prices shown are “inter bank” exchange rates and are not the rates that you will be offered by Moneycorp. Your rate will be determined by the amount of currency that you are buying. Please speak with an Moneycorp dealer or your consultant for a live quotation.
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Parler Paris Après Midi
https://adrianleeds.com/wp-content/uploads/newsletters/parlerparis/apresmidi.html
Come for a drink and to meet and chat with other readers in Paris…
The next gathering is September 11, 2007, and every second Tuesday of the month.
Please note: There will be no meeting in August.
 
 
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HOT PROPERTY PICKS: Champagne Dreams
Each week French Property Insider features a range of properties which we believe are on the market at the time of writing. These properties are featured in order to give readers a sample of what is currently available and a working example of prices being asked in various regions of France and districts of Paris.
As we are not a real estate agency. These properties do not constitute a sales listing. For those readers seriously interested in finding property in Paris or France, you can retain our services to do the whole thing for you. For more information, visit https://adrianleeds.com/wp-content/uploads/newsletters/frenchproperty/consultation
*** Troyes, Character House, 7 rooms, approx. 195m²
In the centre of town, this enchanting house has just been renovated. Very bright and well situated. Large living room, 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 1 toilet, peaceful courtyard.
Asking Price: 475,000 € + 2.5% Finder’s Fee

*** Troyes, House, 9 rooms, approx. 235m²
Exceptional, majestic house, just 15 km from Troyes. A beautiful house with a large living room, 5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 toilets, a cellar, 3 parking spots. With almost 4800m² of property, it offers tennis courts and a superb mosaic swimming pool.
Asking Price: 530,000 + 2.5% Finder’s Fee

*** Ardennes, 16th Century Renaissance château
Belonging to Cardinal Mazarin during the 17th century, this 16th century Renaissance château was progressively transformed into a wonderful leisure property. Located on a peninsula overlooking the Meuse river, this very high quality property is listed as a historical site (all the main building, façade and roof for the outbuildings, garden and dovecote.) Perfect opportunity to buy an historical château as a main home or for business.
Asking Price: 1,000,000 + 2.5% Finder’s Fee

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HOT PROPERTY PICKS: Marais Masterpiece
*** Paris, 3rd Arrondissement, approx. 100m²
Exceptional location for this apartment, in the heart of the Marais with an beautiful view of the gardens of the Picasso Museum. Includes an entrance, 2 living rooms, kitchen, 2 bedrooms, office. Double exposure, east and west. Very bright, high ceilings of 3m. Must see!
Asking price: 1,160,000 € + 2.5% Finder’s Fee
 
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LEASEBACK NEWS FROM IMOINVEST
https://adrianleeds.com/wp-content/uploads/newsletters/frenchproperty/insider/sales/leasebacks/lb_list.php
COLOMBAGES DU GARDEN CLUB PHASE III
France, Britanny / Normandy, Branville
One Bedroom 32m² to 33m² €169,000 to €190,000
Two Bedrooms 45m² to 50m² €207,000 to €243,000
Three Bedrooms 53m² to 55m² €258,000 to €285,000
NEW LISTING!
Guaranteed Buy to Let – Leaseback
GUARANTEED RENTAL INCOME UP TO: 4.00%

LONG AWAITED 3RD PHASE RELEASED
This property is close to fantastic beach side resorts such as Deauville, Trouville and the picturesque port of Honfleur and only 2 hours from Paris. Experience the breathtaking coastline of Normandy stretching for over 350 miles, 900,000 acres of unspoiled forest, authentic marinas and splendid golf courses. Branville is undoubtedly one of the most charming villages of the La Hague, Normandy region. Ideally situated, Residence Les Colombages du Garden Club offers the incomparable beauty of the Pays d’Auge.
Nestled within a 25-acre estate, Residence Colombages presents charming houses reminiscent of traditional Norman Hamlets. The Garden Club is a magnificent property of 10 hectares housing lovely cottages, small one-floor buildings and a tropical water area. Situated on the slope of a delicious green valley, the cottages benefit from unrestricted views of the hills and river. High quality furnishings and fixtures create luxurious living spaces; stylish yet understated. Enjoy the tropical hothouse heated to 30°C all year round, children’s pool, whirlpool baths and covered pool. Take advantage of the high quality facilities such as a full service restaurant, bar, health spa, wave pool, Jacuzzi, hydro massaging jets and an aqua gym. In addition, owners and tenants alike may take advantage of the on site tennis courts, fitness room, kids club, heated swimming pool and poolside sunbathing area, heated river with features linked to the tropical hothouse. Nearby leisure activities include horseback riding with an equestrian centre just 300m from the site; water sports just over 5 miles away, six 18 hole golf courses within 15 miles and several festivals.
Excellent investment opportunity offering full ownership of this highly desirable property. Enjoy the freedom of having no management responsibilities such as maintenance, finding guests or collecting rent. Normandy attracts international visitors not only for its beautiful countryside and coastline, but also for the region’s fascinating history. Unforgettable
ch
ateaux and D-Day beaches guarantee high tourist demand. Reporting an approximate +11% price increase in 2006, the Normandy region offers promising investment potential. In addition, owners will benefit from exclusive holiday discounts within the residence concerned and many others included in the management company’s catalogue. Owners may opt to have a reduced rental income with up to 8 weeks of vacation use. Expected completion is set for Christmas 2008!

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SEEKING A MORTGAGE IN FRANCE?
When you make a purchase as important as a piece of real estate in a foreign country, you want to know that you can trust the people you are dealing with. Adrian Leeds has developed a network of professionals that meet only the highest of standards. With the expertise and experience of Adrian and her team, you can depend on getting the best advice and support to feel completely confident that you are making an informed investment decision.
Let us help you secure a mortgage in France at a competitive interest rate. Visit https://adrianleeds.com/wp-content/uploads/newsletters/frenchproperty/loan for more information or contact [email protected]
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Managing Your French Property Insider Subscription is Easy!
We receive many emails from French Property Insider Subscribers who want to change their email address, or update personal information. But did you know that you can make these changes yourself?
It’s easy…
1. Go to https://adrianleeds.com/frenchproperty/insider
2. Click on “Manage Subscription.” You’ll find it under the “Subscribers Only” section in the sidebar.
3. Enter your username and password.
4. On the Welcome Page, go to “Manage Your Account” and click on “Change Password/Edit Profile”
5. Once you’ve made the changes, scroll down to the bottom of the page and click on “Save Profile.”
Simple!
Of course, we’re always happy to help, so if you do need assistance, send an email to [email protected]
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We wanted better guides.
So we wrote them.
Insider Paris Guides are written for people who love the City of Light. You’ll get a Paris insider perspective on Restaurants… Making a Life… Black Culture… Expat Writers…
French Property Insider subscribers receive a discount of 10% off any guide and up to 25% off the entire purchase (if two or more guides are purchased at the same time). Here’s how it works:
1. Click on special Web link we give you just for FPI subscribers.
2. Then order one or more guide(s) and use the promotion
code “ED762.” This promotion code gives you 10% off your total
order.
3. If you order two or more guides, then an additional 15% will be
taken off automatically. There is no promotion code needed.
Here is the special “coupon” Web link just for you:
http://www.insiderparisguides.com/offer/fpi_offer.htm

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THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW

To access password protected pages: click on any of the links on the left panel of the home page of FrenchPropertyInsider.com under “Subscriber’s Only,” then type in your personal username and password.

Past issues of FPI are available on the website. You will find the
“Past Issues” link on the left under “Subscribers Only” or by going to
https://adrianleeds.com/wp-content/uploads/newsletters/frenchproperty/insider/members/content/pastissues/index.html
To receive your free French Leaseback Report or the Paris Property
Report, click on
https://adrianleeds.com/wp-content/uploads/newsletters/frenchproperty/insider/members/content/reports.html

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HELPFUL CONVERSIONS FOR REAL ESTATE

1 square meter = 10.7639104 square feet

1 hectare = 2.4710538 acres

For more conversions, refer to: http://www.onlineconversion.com/

==== CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING ===

PARLER PARIS APAR
TMENTS
https://adrianleeds.com/wp-content/uploads/newsletters/parlerparis/apartments
Email: [email protected]/parlerparis

Welcome to your home in Paris. Home is how you will feel in a private apartment in Paris that has the “seal of approval” from Parler Paris Apartments and me, Adrian Leeds.
Parler Paris Apartments offers high quality accommodations to make your stay in the City of Light as enjoyable and memorable as possible. We at Parler Paris know each and every apartment owner or manager personally, and stand behind the quality of those we represent. We understand your needs and desires, all the small details that make a rental apartment a warm and welcoming home – and a much better alternative to an impersonal hotel!
Parler Paris Apartments is administered and serviced by the same great team as Parler Paris, French Property Insider and French Property Consultation. You can trust that Parler Paris Apartments and all those with whom it is associated will do their best for your 100% guaranteed satisfaction.
NEW! Le Balcon Planté
Sunny and bright one-bedroom apartment with planted balcony, and views of the Promenade Plantée and clock of the Gare de Lyon. Near Place de la Bastille and the Paris Opera, the Viaduc des Arts and the Promenade Planté, 12th. Sleeps up to 4.
Reserve now! https://adrianleeds.com/wp-content/uploads/newsletters/parlerparis/apartments/rentals/balcon_plante.html
or email: [email protected]
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SUBSCRIBE TO PARLER PARIS

If you’re not a regular reader of the Parler Paris daily e-letter, and would like to be, simply enter your e-mail address here (it’s free!): http://www.adrianleeds.com/parlerparis

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Copyright 2010, Adrian Leeds®
Adrian Leeds Group, LLC, http://www.adrianleeds.com