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Money Matters and Le Marais

Volume IV, Issue 46

We’ve been hunting down studio apartments all week long in the first four districts for a reader of FPI who wants an investment property or two. After some conversation, we determined that studio apartments could yield good revenues when done correctly, particularly because there are fewer studios than one-bedrooms on the rental market and because a one-bedroom may cost double a studio but the rents are rarely double, too.

What we discovered, is that there are fewer studios on the sales market, too. Finding the kind of studio apartment that makes a great vacation rental in the heart of Paris is no easy task. In the process, we came across one that I personally got “this close” to buying. In fact, I made an offer yesterday, but tomorrow I will decline the purchase.
It is 16 square meters with a large window overlooking a beautiful courtyard in a Marais “hôtel particulier” (private mansion) near rue de Bretagne. It had been completely renovated, but lacked a bathroom or kitchen. It also lacked the piping for a standard toilet. This was problem number one, except that as a replacement, a “Sanibroyeur®” could be installed.
These pumping systems are designed to behave like standard toilets to evacuate organic waste and hygienic paper. The brand has existed for more than 50 years and you will find them in boats and apartments all over Paris. I understand that in recent years, they have made enormous progress, but still, one can count on repeated future problems, particularly in a rental apartment with usage by many different people. We encourage you to avoid them when possible.
Studio hunting in Le Marais led us to bring you several examples of what might be possible, so be sure to read the Hot Properties in today’s issue. One thing for sure, if you find a good one, be prepared to make an offer immediately, and if you offer asking price, the seller cannot morally decline!
In today’s issue, we focus on Le Marais as a worthwhile investment spot and also on the financial aspect of property ownership: the newest inheritance tax laws, how to transfer dollars to euros least expensively and the new “rechargeable” mortgages. There is very valuable information here not to be dismissed or missed.
So, if you’re thinking about what gifts you can give your family or to treat yourself, consider how the deed to a Paris pied-à-terre will look sitting under the tree this year!
A bientôt…

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

P.S. Big news! TWO NEW PRESENTERS AT THE UPCOMING LIVING AND INVESTING IN FRANCE REAL ESTATE SEMINAR!
Tarek Richey of Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. will be teaching you to effectively accumulate, enjoy, and preserve your wealth. With comprehensive analysis Tarek and the Raymond James advisors show you how taxes, investment strategies, and other legal issues can affect your overall financial situation while simplifying the demands of managing your wealth. By concentrating on making a difference in the financial well being of their clients, their team of professionals has developed a disciplined approach to providing true value.
Graham Platt, a partner in the International Law Partnership with John Howell, will be presenting “Buy and Own Property in France!” and How to Minimize Your Tax and Maximize the Benefits!

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Volume IV, Issue 46, November 30, 2006

In this issue:
* Important Changes to French Inheritance Laws
* Historic Marais a Good Investment
* How to Save When Transferring from Dollars to Euros
* France Offers “Rechargeable” Mortgages
* Bold New Skyscraper on the Paris Horizon
* Young Brits Eying French Property
* More Brits Looking Abroad for Second Home
* Living and Investing in France Real Estate Seminar December 29, 2006
* Vive la France Property Show, London, January 17-21, 2007
* FPI Property Consultation, Search and Relocation Solutions
* Today’s Currency Update from Moneycorp
* Next Parler Paris Après-Midi: December 12, 2006
* Hot Property Picks: Small Spaces, Big Ideas
* On the Auction Block: December 5, 2006
* Leasebacks: Domaine de l’Emeraude, France, Brittany / Normandy, Saint Malo
* Managing Your FPI Subscription
* Classified Advertising: Parler Paris Apartments

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Inheritance Laws Change in France
http://www.nvillas.com

A law of 23rd June 2006 has brought in changes, some of which are of quite considerable import, on inheritance, ownership ‘en indivision,’ gifts, PACS and changes of matrimonial regime. The new legislation will only apply from 1st January 2007. This article will provide a summary of some of the most significant changes which could affect foreigners in relation to the inheritance of property in France.
1. Representation
Representation is the process whereby an inheritor is replaced by another on a lower inheritance rank e.g. if a parent has lost a child, the grandchild will replace the deceased child under representation when the parent passes away. The legislation now allows the descendants or privileged inheritors of the inheritor who renounces to benefit from representation. Therefore, if the child of the deceased renounces to the inheritance, that person’s own child or children (e.g. the grandchildren of the deceased) will have the same rights as the renouncing parent under the rules of representation.
2. Removal of the protected rights of ascendants
Ascendants (e.g. parents) were forced heirs (‘réservataires’) in the absence of children. As a result they benefited from protected rights in relation to the estate of their children, even if married, and were entitled to a minimum ¼ each. Under this new legislation they are no longer forced heirs (‘réservataires’) and so can be disinherited. However, they are still on the same inheritance rank and so will inherit if they are not specifically excluded by way of will or similar.
3. Renunciation in advance to exercising the action in ‘réduction’
The action in ‘réduction’ is the means by which a forced heir (‘réservataire’) can claim back the inheritance that he or she has been deprived of. If there is a will that exceeds the available quantity and impinges upon the protected interest of an inheritor, that person can recover what is reserved to him or her by means of this action. The law now allows the forced heirs to renounce in advance to exercising this action. The formalities are heavy: it is necessary to sign a specific authentic deed witnessed by two Notaires. Each person who renounces must sign in the presence of the Notaires alone. Therefore, children could theoretically renounce in advance to the inheritance of their parents, thereby allowing parents to leave the property to each other under the terms of their wills.
4. ‘Graduated’ bequests
It is now possible to make ‘graduated bequests’ by either will or gift (liberalités graduelles) whereby a bequest is made subject to the condition that the beneficiary who receives it must transmit the property or rights object of the bequest to a second beneficiary upon his or her death.
5. Opting to accept an inheritance
It is now possible for joint inheritors, inheritors on a lower rank and creditors to summons any inheritor who has not opted to accept the inheritance during the four months after death to take a stance in relation to the inheritance. The inheritor then benefits from two months to opt. If he or she does not renounce then he or she is deemed to have accepted the inheritance. If there is no summons then the option is proscribed after ten years (rather than the previous thirty years) e.g. the inheritor who has not opted is deemed to have renounced after the expiry of this period.
It is now possible for the inheritor who has purely and simply accepted to request discharge from liability for debts about which he or she had good reason to be unaware and which would seriously compromise his or her assets. The rules relating to acceptance following inventory have been modernized and this procedure is now called ‘acceptation for the amount of the net assets’ (‘acceptation à concurrence de l’actif net’)
6. Posthumous power of attorney
It is now possible for a person to designate an attorney to manage all or part of the probate after his or her death. The power of attorney must be in authentic form (e.g. in an act witnessed by a notaire) and must be accepted by the attorney prior to the death. It must be on behalf of and in the interest of one or more inheritors and must be motivated by a serious and legitimate interest. It is limited to two years which can be extended by court order. It can be for five years if the incapacity or age of the inheritors justifies it or if there are business assets to manage.
7. Alteration of the rules of ‘en indivision’
The rules relating to co-ownership ‘en indivision’ have been altered. Instead of unanimity, a majority of 2/3rds is required for acts of administration as well as the renewal of leases. It is necessary for all co-owners to be informed about the acts undertaken in order that they can be opposed against them. However, unanimity is still required for all acts that are not part of the normal exploitation of the property and for all acts of disposal (e.g. sale or mortgaging), excepting the sale of furniture in order to pay the debts and liabilities of the co-ownership. The rules governing ‘partage’ (e.g. the ending of an ‘en indivision’ by dividing of a property) have been loosened in certain cases to facilitate amicable settlement without going through full court proceedings.
8. Extension of the rights of handicapped people
The rights of handicapped people to make wills and gifts have been extended to enable them, subject to conditions, to benefit from a greater freedom to dispose of their assets.
9. Rewriting of the rules relating to executors
The rules relating to executors have been rewritten. The role of an executor remains unchanged e.g. to ensure that the deceased’s last wishes are respected. However, the executor is now obliged to uphold the validity of the will and he must then respect the terms of the bequests. He must take all necessary measures to conserve property required for the proper execution of the
will. He can draw up an inventory and has more extensive rights in relation to sale of assets and property when authorized, particularly in the absence of ‘forced heirs’ (‘réservataires’). These changes will make the role of an executor closer to that known under Anglo-Saxon legal systems.

10. Extension of the rules of ‘donation-partage’
A ‘donation-partage’ is a mechanism whereby a person makes a gift to his or her beneficiaries and at the same time divides the assets object of the gift between those beneficiaries. It is now possible for a person to do a ‘donation-partage’ between his presumptive inheritors (e.g. those inheritors who are legally designated as the beneficiaries in the absence of a will to the contrary). For example, a person without descendants or ascendants can do a ‘donation-partage’ to the benefit of his or her brothers and sisters. It is also now possible to do a ‘donation-partage’ between descendants of different ranks e.g. between a child and grandchild.
11. Reform of PACS (pacte civil de solidarité)
The PACS is a contract between unmarried people governing the ownership of their assets. It can now be concluded in authentic form (e.g. by way of an act signed in front of a notaire) and presented to the secretariat of the county court for registration. This fills a lacuna under the previous legislation. The relations between the partners are now brought closer to those of husband and wife. The rules governing the duties and obligations of husband and wife such as communal life, reciprocal assistance, material aid are now applicable to the PACS. The regime of ownership of the assets becomes that of separate assets (‘séparation de biens’) with rules similar to the regime between spouses. However, it is possible to opt for a regime closer to that of community of assets (organized ‘en indivision’). In addition, the surviving partner will now benefit from a temporary right to the lodging that is the main residence of the partners upon the death of one of them (provided that this right has not been removed by way of will). The survivor can also benefit from the right to require the preferential attribution of the lodging and furniture if the deceased specifically allows this in a will.
12. Alterations to changes of matrimonial regime
A change of matrimonial regime no longer requires court ratification, save in the case where there are minor children where ratification remains necessary (note that court ratification is not normally an issues for foreigners who undertake a change of matrimonial regime in the context of a French property purchase, although it would be relevant to a subsequent alteration of the French regime). The children who are of majority must be personally informed of the project to modify the regime and creditors are informed by publication in the legal announcements of a newspaper. If they oppose then court ratification becomes necessary.
One modification which is potentially of great significance to foreign purchasers concerns the possibility for the children who are not of the marriage (e.g. children from a previous marriage or relationship) to renounce to the legal action to overturn the change of matrimonial regime (‘action en retranchement’). The formalities required are those mentioned in paragraph 3 above. This means that it will be possible in certain cases to allay the fears of those who wish to do a change of matrimonial regime to adopt the regime of la communauté universelle.
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Investing in Le Marais
Written for Parismarais.com
December 1, 2006
By Adrian Leeds

Paris Mayor Bertrand Delanoë pays a public visit to each and every arrondissement every year between September and December. This is a pretty heavy schedule when considering there are 20 arrondissements in Paris all vying for his attention.
Monday night, November 27th, was just such an occasion at the Mairie of the 3rd arrondissement. Seats for a hundred or more residents of the district were horseshoe-shaped facing a panel including the Mayor of Paris, the Mayor of the 3rd, Pierre Aidenbaum, the city council and the district council. Pierre Aidenbaum opened the forum with a short discourse, followed by Delanoë’s address before allowing the residents to openly discuss their issues and questions.
Of utmost concern to the citizens were affordable housing, particularly for the less fortunate, and the overwhelming current reconstruction of the city which is discouraging vehicular traffic; encouraging pedestrian traffic.
Yes, this takes place in every arrondissement of Paris, but the area of the city known as Le Marais is particular because of its profound history dating back to the 12th-century with the Knights Templar and its present status in the city as THE historic center. Its residents feel a kinship with the gnarled streets, grand mansions and formal gardens that runs as deep as the 16th-century.
At one time, it was home to Paris’ wealthiest and most aristocratic lot, but when the royal court moved to Versailles, the district declined. Many of the mansions were converted to factories and small houses filled in the gaps between them housing the workers. By the early part of the 20th century, Le Marais was home to the Eastern European Jews, a center for the clothing industry and a target for Nazi intervention.
Virtually a slum, and almost ignored by the new city Métro system, it was thanks to the foresight of people like André Malraux, France’s Minister of Culture, that the Marais was saved from a complete razing. It was the first sector under the new laws passed in 1962 to protect city historical centers, with the area being home to many museums, art galleries and historic sites.
Residents who attended the forum and those who voiced their concerns before the Mayor of the 3rd arrondissement and the Mayor of Paris, were clearly emotionally attached to their centuries-old home that anchors the city in an unwavering
past.
They see the district changing, improving, gaining importance, stature and value and want to protect it, much like Malraux and his compatriots did. It’s for all these reasons that the Marais is still, and will always be, one of the most sought-after areas of the city in which to live and work and thrive.

In the last several years, property values have risen dramatically, while both old and new residents reconstruct, rebuild, regentrify, renovate and redecorate structures that have seen many generations pass through its doors. New residents from all walks of lives, nationalities and cultures have recognized its value and set down roots here. The population of the districts, both 3rd and 4th, have diversified, becoming even more eclectic and textured, like a tapestry woven of many colors.
I’ve been a resident of Le Marais for almost ten years and am continuing to invest in the district by purchasing, renovating and renting properties to vacationers who want to get to know Le Marais from a more insider’s point of view. The apartment I purchased six years ago in a 17th-century “hôtel particulier” (private mansion), has not only been a delightful abode, but has more than tripled in value! With the equity built, I was easily given a loan to purchased another apartment, that with careful renovation and decoration, immediately became a successful short-term vacation rental (“Le Provençal” — https://adrianleeds.com/wp-content/uploads/newsletters/parlerparis/apartments/rentals/provencal.html). Now, I’m looking for another to add to my portfolio of Paris properties — what I believe will be my financial security for a long and prosperous life.
Many North American and British investors have chosen to become a part of this new wave of progress. They see the same bright future in this corner of Paris as I do.
At the upcoming Living and Investing in France Real Estate Seminar December 29th, which takes place right here in the Marais at the historic Chez Jenny, we will be discussing at length the virtues of property ownership in Paris, in France and of course, in Le Marais, as compared with the other districts. With the recent decline of the U.S. dollar, we will uncover the benefits of investing in real property in euro value, regardless of where in France you wish to hang your hat. You will learn how to prepare for your purchase, create the proper structure to minimize your tax liability, find the best properties and profit from your investment, all while enjoying every minute of the time you spend there.
Editor’s Note: For more information, visit Living and Investing in France Real Estate Seminar
https://adrianleeds.com/wp-content/uploads/newsletters/frenchproperty/conference/LIF_Paris_Dec_2006/LIF_Paris_Dec_2006_home.html
or email Schuyler Hoffman, [email protected]/parlerparis

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Transfering Dollars to Euros?
Here’s How to Save the Most Money

When it comes time to make a purchase, it’s natural for us to just contact our banks and ask them to wire transfer X amount of dollars to an account in France, converting the dollars to euros in the process. But think again. This is a big source of revenue for commercial banks…by adding commissions to the transaction. And that could cost you PLENTY.
Moneycorp is the currency broker we recommend to save you approximately one-half the cost of the commissions your commercial bank will charge when converting dollars to euros.
To prepare for the transfer, well in advance if you like, open and account with Moneycorp. It’s simple.
1. Contact Moneycorp:
Brian Westwater, Consultant
Private Client Services, Moneycorp, Inc.
250 Montgomery Street, Suite 910
San Francisco, CA 94104
Brian_Westwater
http://www.Moneycorp.com

Brian will send you the terms and conditions to read and sign.
2. Provide two forms of authenticated* identification: either a black and white copy of your passport photo page or photo ID drivers licence and one household utility bill, credit card or bank statement less than 3 months old (a mobile phone bill is not acceptable).
You are now ready to instruct a currency trader with your
currency purchase or sale order over the telephone.

3. Contact your Moneycorp dealer (between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. Monday – Thursday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday) to discuss your currency transaction: +1 (415) 678 2770
The dealers can explain suitable strategies and the mechanisms available to you but the decision to proceed is yours alone. Moneycorp can only act upon your specific instructions. It is important that you understand that the currency markets are prone to be volatile.
4. Having agreed a price you cannot change your mind as Moneycorp will buy the currency straight away. Therefore, if you are subsequently offered a better rate elsewhere, or the market improves, you cannot amend the agreed contract. Please note that the dealer’s telephone lines are digitally recorded at all times.
5. Once you have instructed Moneycorp to buy currency at an agreed rate, you will receive a Contract Note (invoice). This gives confirmation of the amount of currency bought and the exchange rate achieved. This will also contain a Telegraphic Transfer form to instruct your bank to send funds to the Moneycorp client trust account.
6. Finally, Moneycorp requires details of your onward payment instructions to enable your currency to go direct to its destination. Please allow sufficient time for your funds to progress through the various overseas banking systems.
Editor’s Note: If you have given Moneycorp an instruction to try to achieve a target exc
hange rate
then no funds are required until that level has been breached. The Moneycorp service includes one free overseas Telegraphic Transfer payment per trade (assuming that you have completed the marketing section on page 3 of the terms and conditions). Should you require several transfers, there will be a charge small charge per extra Telegraphic Transfer This does not apply to a ‘regular payment plan’ Some overseas banks can make a charge to receive funds,however Moneycorp now guarantees that you will not have to pay this fee. If, in the unlikely event, you are charged Moneycorp will pay the fee. Please note that Moneycorp contracts to buy currency for physical delivery only. This means that you are buying/selling currency for a specific purchase or sale and not for speculative gain.

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Click here to download the Moneycorp weekly calendar of November 27, 2006:
https://adrianleeds.com/wp-content/uploads/newsletters/frenchproperty/insider/members/content/Moneycorp_report_30-11-06.pdf

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UCB, One of the First Credit Institutions to Offer Rechargeable Mortgages
UCB, A BNP Paribas Company

Since March 23, 2006, rechargeable mortgages have been added to existing legislation in France.
* A Major Step Towards Greater Flexibility
This reform, which has already been integrated into the UCB offer, opens up genuine opportunities for you if you wish to purchase property in France.
It is based on a very simple principle: as you repay your mortgage, you free up part of the security which you can then re-use for one or more future loans.
* A Step Towards the Flexibility of the UK System
This principle is already part of the UK system, but there are some differences. In France, the application to use the “recharge” has to be approved by the lender, and the services of a notary are still required. However, the cost will be less than it would be for entirely new security. In the UK, the lender’s approval may also be necessary, but no further intervention by a solicitor is required as the mortgage on the property is for “all moneys” due to the lender.
Another difference is that in France the “recharge” can be used by a different lender from the original one, which is not the case in the UK.
It should be pointed out that existing mortgages in France have not now all become “rechargeable” — it is not automatic. The “rechargeable” potential must be incorporated into the mortgage contract (there will be no extra cost for this) when the offer is issued. In practice this will only be done in cases where the security would be an “hypothèque” as opposed to a “privilège de prêteur de deniers,” in other words for new builds, works, refinance or equity release, but not for straightforward purchases of existing property.
This said, it does nevertheless represent an interesting development in the French mortgage environment and will save money for those customers, in the above categories ,who have future requirements. Constantly seeking new and innovative solutions, UCB is one of the first mortgage providers in France to offer rechargeable mortgages.
To find out more and learn about the rechargeable mortgage in detail, please do not hesitate to contact:
Alessandro Cavallari
Métier Crédit Immobilier Spécialisé International Buyers [email protected]

* Interest Rate Indexes (on 01/11/2006)
3 month Euribor: 3.52%
12 month Euribor: 3.80%
TEC 10: 3.77%
Source: UCB

* Exchange Rates (on 07/11/2006)
€ 1 = £0.6697
£1 = € 1.4932
€ 1 – $1.2763
Source: Boursorama

* Rented Dwellings Reference Index (on 13/10/2006)
2006 2nd quarter annual variation: 2.78%
Source: INSEE

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Paris to House Wind-Powered Skyscraper
Associated Press
From Forbes.com

Developers have selected a design by an award-winning American architect for a bold new building nearly as tall as the Eiffel Tower – and powered partly by the wind.
Dubbed the Lighthouse, the 984-foot-high skyscraper will be designed by Pritzker Prize winner Thom Mayne and erected at La Defense, a complex of office towers in a business district west of Paris where many of France’s major corporations are headquartered…
To read the entire article, visit: http://www.forbes.com/business/
 
 
 
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Young Brits Cast Their Eyes Over the Channel
From Assetz Property News Service
http://news.assetz.co.uk/articles/

Some 40 per cent of young Brits would consider investing in properties abroad in order to eventually gain a foothold on the UK housing ladder, according to ne
w research.

Due to Brits traditional affection for homes in France and their relatively low cost in comparison to Spanish or British houses, many more young buyers could be hopping over the Channel in the near future to make a quick buck in the lucrative property market.
Around half of those who affirmed that overseas investment may be the best way of investing their cash said that they would see such an acquisition purely as a financial investment rather than a holiday home, in the survey carried out by MRI Overseas Property.
“The UK property market’s ever-increasing prices are now having a serious impact on people’s attitudes towards buying property in Britain,” said Darragh MacAnthony, group chairman of MRI Overseas Property.
“With so many young people unable to get onto the property ladder, buying a property abroad can seem an attractive option, either as a means of generating a financial return or to experience living abroad at a time in their lives when they have less ties to home.”
But the urge to spread their wings was not ubiquitous among young Brits. The percentage willing to plunge their savings into European real estate was highest in London at 41 per cent and lowest in Scotland where only 24 per cent thought that this could be the right financial option for them.
In a survey published yesterday (November 23rd) by market research outfit Mintel, just over a quarter of Brits favoring a property abroad chose France, so it might well be the case that those in London, due to their proximity to our Gallic neighbours, are more willing to be bold with their money because they have easier access to the market.
Meanwhile, Thierry Breton, French economy and finance minister has turned on those critical of the French economy’s recent performance.
It was recently reported that the country’s economy failed to grow at all in the third quarter but Mr Breton insists that this is a mere short-term blip in a period of long-term stable growth.
Speaking to the senate he said: “Little by little all the French and international research institutes have come round to my forecast of 2 to 2.5 per cent (growth) in 2006 and the unpleasant surprise in the third quarter does not call the forecast into question,” reports AFP.
“After just three quarters we are already in the lower end of the planned range,” he explained.
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Britons with Second Home Abroad Up 45% in Two Years
By Terry Kirby, Chief Reporter
The Independent
http://news.independent.co.uk

Attracted by the prospect of their own place in the sun and an easy way of making money, the numbers of British people owning a second home abroad is booming as never before.
Around 800,000 British households now own a second home abroad, up 45 per cent since June 2004, according to research.
The boom has been fuelled by television programs about people buying abroad and assisted by the rise in property values in Britain, low interest rates and the availability of cheap no-frills flights…
To read the entire article, visit: http://news.independent.co.uk/uk/this_britain/article
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Adrian Leeds, Parler Paris, French Property Insider and John Howell & Co. of International Law Partnership Present the…
Living and Investing in France
Real Estate Seminar
December 29, 2006
Chez Jenny, Paris, France

If you’ve always dreamed of moving to France, starting a new life in Paris, enjoying a “pied-à-terre” of your own part of the year or perhaps investing in property in France, this power-packed seminar is a MUST. Hosted by Adrian Leeds, Editor of the Parler Paris Nouvellettre® and French Property Insider weekly e-zine and John Howell, lead attorney for John Howell & Co., International Law Partnership, London, this one day in Paris will put you on the right footing to make it happen!
You will learn how to…
* Why Invest in Property in France?
* Find Your Dream Apartment in Paris or Home in the Country!
* Buy and Own Property in France!
* How to Obtain a Mortgage!
* Reduce Your Currency Exchange Risk!
* How to Minimize Your Tax and Maximize the Benefits!
* Rent Your French Property for Profit!
* Plus, answer all the rest of your questions during a Q and A panel with the presenters.

The Seminar Location
Historical Chez Jenny
39 boulevard du Temple
Place de la République
75003 Paris

“An authentic Brasserie with a soul, a style and a history.”
At the colonial exhibition in 1930, Robert Jenny had a kiosk where he sold produce from his region: salt-pickled cabbage choucroute, sausages and beer. Appreciating Parisian life and noting that the fine Alsatian products attracted the Parisians, this native of Strasbourg sought to set up business in the capital. He found just the right place not far from the place de la République, at number 39 boulevard du Temple. This was the hall where the former Victor ball was held. The quarter was lively, even though it no longer deserved the reputation of «Crime Boulevard» that it had had in the 18th century, when the plays billed at the many theatres in the area mainly drew inspiration from the items in the news.
The seminar includes
a three-course lunch with Kir, wine and coffee!

Menu (subject to change):
* Kir Vin Blanc à l’Edelzwicker d’Alsace and Bretzels
* Terrine de Canard aux Pistaches, Chutney de Fruits Secs
* Suprême de Volaille à la Moutarde, Nid d’Alsace aux Légumes or Onglet de Veau à l’Echalote, Gratin Dauphinois
* Crème Brûlée Caramélisée à la Cassonade
* Wine or Mineral Water, Coffee

Click here for more information and to register, or contact Project Manager, Schuyler Hoffman at [email protected]/parlerparis
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French Property Exhibition
Vive La France
January 19-21, 2007

THE UK’S NO.1 FOR BUYING IN FRANCE
French Property News are once again holding a French property exhibition at “Vive La France” – a celebration of all things French.
Ticket Prices: £8 in advance, £12 on the door
Tickets available from : 0870 013 0730 or visit http://www.vivelafrance.co.uk
Over 175 exhibitors – Estate Agents, Builders, Developers, Architects plus financial and legal advice.
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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: 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
NEXT MEETING: December 12, 2006 AND EVERY SECOND TUESDAY OF THE MONTH, 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.
This is your opportunity to meet every month, often with local
professionals who can answer your Working and Living in France questions. You are invited to come for drinks and share your questions and comments about what it takes to create a life here, own property and enjoy what France has to offer. It is also an opportunity to network with other Parler Paris readers.

Upstairs at La Pierre du Marais
96, rue des Archives at the corner of rue de Bretagne, 75003 Paris
Métro Lines 9, 3 et 11, stations Temple, République or Arts et Métiers

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HOT PROPERTY PICKS: Small Spaces, Big Ideas
Each week French Property Insider features a ran
ge 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
*** Paris, 4th Arrondissement, Studio, approx. 16m²
Near Place des Vosges and Bastille, this studio is small but it is big on character. Good layout, comfortable and quiet with beams. On the 3rd floor. Electric heating.
Asking Price: 135,000 € + 2.5% Finder’s Fee
 
 
 
 
 
*** Paris, 4th Arrondissement, Studio, approx. 15m²
In a quiet environment, this apartment contains 1 room, a bathroom and kitchenette. It is located on the 3rd floor with an elevator, plus intercom, digicode and guard.
Asking Price: 173,000 € + 2.5% Finder’s Fee

 
*** Paris, 3rd Arrondissement, Studio, approx. 25m²
Rue Quincampoix, on the 7th and top floor with elevator to the 6th. With American style kitchen and bathroom, plus cellar. Quiet, bright, this apartment features high ceilings and beams.
Asking Price: 193,000 € + 2.5% Finder’s Fee

 
*** Paris, 3rd Arrondissement, Studio, approx. 33m²
In the heart of Paris, just steps from metro in a charming old building. This large studio has a main room with exposed stone and beams, a bathroom and kitchenette.
Asking Price: 195,000 € + 2.5% Finder’s Fee
 
 
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Paris Auctions
http://www.encheres-Paris.com

Next session: December 5, 2006, 2 p.m.
Notaires de Paris
Place du Châtelet
12 avenue Victoria
Paris 1st

Additional information on Les Ventes aux Enchères des Notaires can be found on the web site at http://www.encheres-Paris.com/ Though the site has a button for an English version, it isn’t reliable to work.
To read Schuyler Hoffman’s article about the property auctions in Paris, click on:
https://adrianleeds.com/wp-content/uploads/newsletters/frenchproperty/insider/members/content/articles/auctions1.html

2 rooms 51,81 m² + Box
8/10 avenue Salonique
75017 PARIS 17th
Opening Bid: 250 000,00 €
Deposit: 50 000,00 €
Maid’s Room, 12,06 m²
8/10 avenue Salonique
75017 PARIS 17th
Opening Bid: 45 000,00 €
Deposit: 9 000,00 €
Studio 21,92 m² + 14,59 m² outside loi Carrez
59 rue du Faubourg Saint-Denis
75010 PARIS 10th
Opening Bid: 80 000,00 €
Deposit: 16 000,00 €

 
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LEASEBACK NEWS FROM IMOINVEST
https://adrianleeds.com/wp-content/uploads/newsletters/frenchproperty/insider/sales/leasebacks/lb_list.php
DOMAINE DE L’EMERAUDE
France, Brittany / Normandy, Saint Malo

Two Bedrooms 35m² to 36m² €125,000 to €128,000
LEASEBACK PROPERTY
GUARANTEED RENTAL INCOME UP TO: 5.70%


GOLF COURSE, COUNTRYSIDE, OCEAN ALL AROUND
Long, jagged coastline and magnificent beaches line Brittany’s northern shore, swept clean by huge tides and interspersed with well-established seaside resorts, seasoned fishing ports and abundant oyster beds. Excellent location only 4 kilometres from the sea and the countryside, and 40 kilometres from beautiful Mont St. Michel. Approximately 12 kilometres from Cancale and 20 kilometres from Dinan, Saint-Malo is a walled port city in north western France along the English Channel. Located in the Ille-et-Vilaine department, this attractive town is located on a peninsula on the right bank of the wide estuary of the river Rance. The Bay of Saint-Malo spreads from the eastern part of the city to the Pointe de la Varde. Saint Malo is close to shops, horseback riding, fishing, hiking, golf, sailing, tennis, hot springs and various restaurants.
The residence will comprise 95 traditional Breton style luxury cottages. These thatched cottages perfectly combine classic country style and luxury by the sea. The residence benefits from an exceptional placement bordering one of the region’s most breathtaking luscious 18 hole golf courses and is only 20 minutes from the Emerald Coast and its glorious beaches. In addition the residence offers to its guests remarkable facilities and services including, reception, laundry facilities, bar and lounge, children’s recreation area, games area and a pool for adults and children.
A specialist in property promotion and leasehold will assume full management control over this project. Operating within the tourist sector the management company backing this project will use its structure to continually give satisfaction to investors and final customers. Investors will receive a full VAT refund and have the opportunity to vacation within their property.
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SEEKING A MORTGAGE IN FRANCE?
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]

=============================
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]
================================
INSIDER PARIS GUIDES DISCOUNT FOR FPI SUBSCRIBERS
Remember, as an FPI Subscriber you can take advantage of a special discount on the popular Insider Paris Guides, plus get an extra 15% discount when ordering two or more guides. Choose from:
* Leeds Good Value Guide to Paris Restaurants by Adrian Leeds
* Insider Guide to Practical Answers for Living in France by Jean Taquet
* Writers Insider Guide to Paris by Elizabeth Reichart
* Insider Guide to Black Paris by Melinda Herron

Just visit http://www.insiderparisguides.com. When you order, a box will pop up allowing you to enter the special FPI Subscribers discount code:
Username: fpi
Password: subscriber

You’ll receive download instructions, then just save the guides to your computer. Happy reading!

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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
http://www.adrianl
eeds.com/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 APARTMENTS
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 SPECIAL RATES FOR DECEMBER!
“Les Arts et Métiers”
Rue Bailly, 3rd Arrondissement

Spacious One-Bedroom Apartment
Sleeps 4

Architecturally designed and very cozy, this spacious one-bedroom apartment is situated in the heart of Paris on a tiny L-shaped street just facing the Métro entrance for Arts et Métiers and the Musée and Conservatoire des Arts et Métiers on rue Bailly.
Price (everything included):
Night/150€ to 200€
Week/875€ to 1155€
Month/2700€ to 3000€

Pictures and more details available here: https://adrianleeds.com/wp-content/uploads/newsletters/parlerparis/apartments/rentals/artsetmetiers.html

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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

================================

Copyright 2006, Adrian Leeds®
Adrian Leeds Group, LLC, http://www.adrianleeds.com

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