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The Quality of French Life

Volume III, Issue 11

Spring has sprung in Paris. The air is warm. The sun is bright. And everyone is talking about Quality of Life.
The latest Quality of Living Survey is out, ranking Paris 31st before London and New York. Zurich and Geneva top out tied for the number one slot, but I’m not so sure I’d personally opt for Switzerland over Paris! Be sure to read Mercer Resource Consulting’s report in today’s issue.
Mayor of Paris Bertrand Delanoë is working vigorously to clean up the air and congestion by proposing to remove all traffic except commercial vehicles from the very heart of the city, districts one through four.
Also in the interest of “cleaning up,” asbestos was discovered throughout the Tour Montparnasse, so drastic measures must be taken, which are sure to be expensive. The imposing black monolith left an even blacker mark on the city’s skyline and today, laws prevent buildings from reaching exhorbitant heights.
Laws also insist that a property seller provide certain diagnostics prior to the signature of a Promesse de Vente. These include asbestos, lead, termites and swimming pool security. The Notaire will insure these are not only carried out, but are certified by a licensed diagnostician.
Easter weekend is soon upon us and I will be heading for three days of exploration in Bretagne. My friends and I have rented a car and will be looping from Paris to southern Brittany and along the coast to the north before heading back to the City of Light. I hope to bring you all that I have discovered in the March 31st issue.
Meanwhile, I’ll be refreshing my window geraniums if the weather stays as warm and wonderful as this!
A bientôt…

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

P.S. Jean Taquet’s “The Insider Guide to Practical Answers for Living in France” just got an update. Each month we add his newest Q’s and A’s to this massive accumulation of practical answers started more than a decade ago. The document consists of 178 pages of almost 300 questions and answers, all within the scope of working, living and investing in France. It’s a fascinating read and an invaluable resource of assistance! For more information and to get your copy, visit http://www.insiderparisguides.com/answers/index.html
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Volume III, Issue 11, March 17, 2005
In this issue:
* A Purely Pedestrian City
* The Best Cities in the World to Live In
* Quality of Living Ranking
* Asbestos Uncovered in Paris’ Tallest Building
* The Diagnostics Demanded of the Seller
* First You Dream It. Then You Do It: Reserve Now for Mary 20 – 22, 2005 in Paris
* Today’s Rates of Exchange by Moneycorp
* Moneycorp Reports
* Our Recommended Lenders
* Renovating and Furnishing Your Rental Property
* Paris Property Picks: By Imoinvest
* Hot Property Picks: More from Imoinvest
* Leaseback News: in the Alps
* What’s on Auction this April
* Classified Advertising: Vacation Rentals

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The Match: Pedestrians vs Drivers
By Adrian Leeds

Mayor Bertrand Delanoë is aggressive in his quest for clean air and a high quality of life. As a pedestrian, I am generally thrilled with his bold maneuvers. If I owned a car in Paris, I might think differently. And as a resident of one of the neighborhoods affected, I have very mixed emotions.
His newest plan is to allow only residents, buses, delivery vans and emergency vehicles inside the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th arrondissements, a 3 square-mile zone of the Right Bank, from Place de la Bastille to the Place de la Concorde. He pointed out that “50% of the cars in the city center are just passing through.” If his proposal passed, Paris could become a pedestrian’s paradise by 2012 when the Olympic Games take place (if they do!).
Phase I aims to impose a speed limit of 30km/h in these arrondissements and create a cycle lane along the north bank of the Seine, as well as keeping traffic away from the Louvre and narrow major roads in the historic heart.
In Phase II, roads surrounding the shopping mall of Les Halles would be pedestrianized, in line with a major redevelopment project there.
Phase III would see the whole area closed to non-residential traffic.
And overall, how would that affect the areas economically? Perhaps we’d have cleaner air, reduced noise and pollution, but would tourists stay away? Would our businesses suffer? And would it be more difficult for residents to maneuver within these areas of the city? How will it affect the value of our property in these arrondissements?
I can only hope all these questions will be considered before taking such a drastic move…the proposal isn’t due for approval until next year…so, we wait with anxious honking.
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Where’s the Best Place in the World to Live?
World-Wide Quality of Life Survey
By Mercer Human Re sourcing Consulting
http://www.mercerhr.com

* Luxembourg scores highest for personal safety and security; Baghdad scores lowest
* Canadian cities top the rankings for safety and security in North America
* For overall quality of life, Geneva, and Zurich rank top; Baghdad scores lowest

Luxembourg ranks as the world’s top city for personal safety and security, according to a quality of life survey by Mercer Human Resource Consulting. The city scores 122.5 followed by Helsinki, Bern, Geneva, and Zurich which take joint second place with scores of 120.
Scores for personal safety and security are based on relationships with other countries, internal stability, and crime, including terrorism. Law enforcement, censorship, and limitations on personal freedom are also taken into account.
Cities are ranked against New York as the base city, which has a rating of 100. The analysis is part of a worldwide quality of life survey, covering 215 cities, to help governments and major companies to place employees on international assignments.
The Japanese cities of Resource, Kastuyama, Tsukuba, and Yokkaichi score highest in Asia (joint 14th place with scores of 112.5), while Calgary, Montreal, Ottawa, Toronto, and Vancouver rank top in North America, in joint 18th place (score 112).
“The top-ranking cities for personal safety and security are in politically stable countries with good international relations and sustainable economic growth,” said Slagin Parakatil, Senior Researcher at Mercer. “Most of the low-scoring cities are in countries with civil unrest, little law enforcement, and high levels of crime.”
The world’s least secure city is Baghdad (Iraq), with a score of 5 due to ongoing civil unrest and threats of attack in the city. Other low-ranking cities include Abidjan in the Ivory Coast, Bangui in Central African Republic, and Port Harcourt and Lagos in Nigeria , which score 24, 26.5, 32.5, and 32.5 respectively. These countries continue to experience political turmoil and low economic growth.
Western Europe
Many Western European cities appear at the top of the rankings. Luxembourg scores highest for personal safety and security, followed by Swiss and Scandinavian cities. Other high-scoring cities include Vienna, ranked 6th with a score of 116, followed by Düsseldorf, Munich, Nürnberg, Frankfurt, and Oslo, sharing 8th place with scores of 113.
In contrast, Athens, Rome, and London appear at the lower end of the rankings for this region, at positions 83, 74, and 69 respectively (score 93.5, 95.5, and 99), due to high levels of petty crime. Madrid also scores relatively low, sharing 69th position with London, due to terrorism.
Mr Parakatil concluded: “As globalization increases, security and relationships with other countries become more critical to overall quality of life standards in cities across the world.”
Rankings for overall quality of life
Mercer’s overall quality of life survey has revealed that Geneva and Zurich remain the world’s top-scoring cities with 106.5 points. Other high-scoring cities include Vancouver and Vienna in joint 3rd place (score 106).
Cities in Europe, New Zealand, and Australia continue to rank highly. Munich and Düsseldorf both move up the rankings, from 10th and 12th place respectively, to share joint 5th place with Frankfurt. Munich’s rise is due to more efficient waste removal systems and better housing for expatriates, while Düsseldorf’s transport and standards of international schooling have improved. Bern, Copenhagen, and Sydney are pushed down slightly to rank 8 with scores of 105.
In the US, Honolulu and San Francisco rank highest in joint 25th position (score 102), mainly because they have lower crime levels than other US cities. Boston, New York, Portland, and Washington follow in positions 36, 39, 42, and 42 respectively (score 100.5, 100, 99, 99), while Houston ranks lowest at position 68 (score 94).
The analysis was based on an evaluation of 39 quality of life criteria for each city, including political, social, economic, and environmental factors, personal safety and health, education, transport, and other public services.
Baghdad remains the world’s least attractive city for expatriates. Its low score (14.5) is due to the recurrent threat of attacks against people, multinational organizations, and government institutions in the area. Other poor-scoring cities for overall quality of life include Bangui in the Central African Republic (score 29), Brazzaville in Congo, and Khartoum in Sudan (29.5 and 31 respectively).
Notes: Data was largely collected between September and November 2004 and is regularly updated to take account of changing circumstances. In particular, the assessments will be revised in the case of any new developments.
The worldwide rankings are produced from the most recent worldwide quality of life survey, conducted by Mercer Human Resource Consulting. Individual reports are produced for each city surveyed, but please note that there is no overall summary report available. The cost of comparative quality of life indexes between a base city and a host city is 250 euros (multiple city comparisons are available). Further information and copies of the reports are available from Client Services, Mercer Global Information Services, on +41 22 869 3000.
The overall quality of life ranking is based on an evaluation of 39 quality of life criteria.
The covered topic in 2005, “personal safety and security,” is based on an evaluation of six criteria that have been drawn from the overall quality of life survey. New York has been used as the base score for quality of life with a score of 100 points.
Mercer’s study is based on detailed assessments and evaluations of 39 key quality of life determinants, grouped in the following categories:
* Political and social environment (political stability, crime, law enforcement, etc)
* Economic environment (currency exchange regulations, banking services, etc)
* Socio-cultural environment (censorship, limitations on personal freedom, etc)
* Medical and health considerations (medical supplies and services, infectious diseases, sewage, waste disposal, air pollution, etc)
* Schools and education (standard and availability of schools, etc)
* Public services and transportation (electricity, water, public transport, traffic congestion, etc)
* Recreation (restaurants, theatres, cinemas, sports and leisure, etc)
* Consumer goods (availability of food/daily consumption items, cars, etc)
* Housing (housing, household appliances, furniture, maintenance services, etc)
* Natural environment (climate, record of natural disasters)

Mercer Human Resource Consulting, one of the world’s leading consulting organizations, helps employers create measurable business results through their people. With more than 14,000 employees serving clients from some 145 cities in 41 countries and territories worldwide, the company is part of Mercer Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc., which lists its stock (ticker symbol: MMC) on the New York, Chicago, Pacific, and London stock exchanges.
Editor’s Note: If you’re still struggling with a decision to move to France, even though Paris’ rank was a modest 31, consider that Paris beat Boston, London, New York, Madrid, Barcelona, Washington, DC, Seattle and Chicago, among others!
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Asbestos Found In Paris Landmark
BBC NEWS
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/4351303.stm
Asbestos has been found in one of Paris’ most famous landmarks, the Montparnasse tower in southern Paris.
The tower, which is among Europe’s tallest buildings, houses 5,000 office workers and is visited by 600,000 tourists every year.
But the owners of the firm managing the building say the discovery poses no health risk to workers and visitors.
Asbestos can cause lung cancer and other respiratory diseases. France banned its use in 1997.
News that asbestos had been found in the tower was revealed by the weekly Journal du Dimanche at the weekend.
“There is no risk for workers, there is no risk for visitors. Only maintenance workers could eventually be exposed [to the asbestos],” Philippe Bauchot, the president of managing firm Cogetom, is quoted as saying by the AFP news agency.
A government official told Reuters news agency the company had three years to correct the problem.
Serge Jullineau, head of the inspection company which analyzed the tower’s asbestos levels in the mid-1990s, said four floors were rated “level three” risks for asbestos, the highest.
They house technical facilities that are closed to the public, but not to maintenance workers.
The risks today are “minimal”, but are likely to worsen in coming years, Mr Jullineau told Le Parisien newspaper.
Towering presence
The discovery of asbestos at Montparnasse are a reminder of the scandal which hit the Paris university campus of Jussieu after asbestos was discovered in numerous buildings there.
Montparnasse houses offices and a shopping center, and towers above one of the city’s main train stations.
It caused huge controversy when it was completed in the early 1970s because of the way it dominates the city’s skyline.
Today, French law limits the height of buildings to protect the skyline.
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Diagnosing the Asbestos, Lead, Termites and Swimming Pool Security
By Adrian Leeds

When an owner decides to place his property on the market for sale, there are four diagnostics required before the final sale can take place:
1. Amiante: Asbestos
Property licensed for construction prior to July 1997 must produce a diagnostic report evaluating the presence of building materials or products containing asbestos.
2. Plomb: Lead
Property constructed prior to 1948 or situated in an area or zone exposed to lead (as designated by the “préfet” of the department) are required to produce a diagnostic report.
3. Termites: Termites
An inspection of termites is required of a building situated in a zone delineated by the “préfet” of the department three months before the date of the final act of sale.
4. Securité des Piscines: Swimming Pool Security
Since January 1st, 2004, private underground swimming pools non-enclosed and utilized privately or collectively, must be equipped with standardized safety devices aimed at preventing the risks of drowning. The seller must furnish the notaire with a copy of a technical document supplied by the manufacturer or installer attesting to the security. For those pools installed prior to January 2004, the owner must have equipped the pool with a system of safety before January 2006. Pools leased seasonally must be equipped with safety measures since January 2004. Non-compliance of the law is subject to fines of up to 45,000 Euros.
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First You Dream It. Then You Do it.
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 investing in property in France, this three-day power-packed conference is a MUST. Hosted by Adrian Leeds, Editor and of the Parler Paris Nouvellettre® and French Property Insider weekly e-zine and John Howell, lead attorney for John Howell & Co., Europe Law, London, these three days in Paris will arm you with all the information you need to make it happen! The line-up for the conference includes lectures, discussions, dinner, cocktails — with well-known Paris, Europe and U.S. -based experts in the fields of:
* Obtaining the Right to Be in France
* Learning the Language
* Starting a Business in France
* Minimizing Your Tax Liability
* Finding, Buying and Owning Property
* Learning About the Leaseback Program
* Renting Your Property for Profit
* Getting a Mortgage
* Protecting from Foreign Exchange Risks
* Best Offshore Banking in the World
* Crossing the Cultural Divide
* Insuring Your Health, Home and Car
* And more!

You’ll have an opportunty to ask questions and learn all you’ll need to know to make your dream come true to live in France or just be a part of the profits on owning property there.
Working and Living in France
May 20 – 22, 2005
Paris, France
Les Jardins du Marais

Click here to learn more:
https://adrianleeds.com/wp-content/uploads/newsletters/parlerparis/liveinfrance/WLIF_PARIS_2005/WLIF_PARIS_2005_home.html

Reservations and information:
If you’d like to know more about the seminar or reserve your place, email Schuyler Hoffman.

U.S. OFFICE 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Pacific Time
Schuyler Hoffman, Special Projects Manager
Phone 1-310-427-7589
Email: [email protected]/parlerparis

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TODAY’S CURRENCY UPDATE
Visit the FPI Web site and click on the link on the left panel “Click Here for Currency Currency Convertor by Moneycorp Global Money Services/Currency Online by Moneycorp” 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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Moneycorp REPORTS
As for the currency market there has been notable volatility over this past month. From the 10th of February through this past week, the exchange rate for transferring funds from US Dollars into Euros rose from 1.2738 to 1.3481. That is more than a 7 cent move over the course of a 30 day period, or a difference of about 5.8%. To put this in perspective, the difference between purchasing a 500,000 Euro apartment in France on the weekend we were in New Orleans for the Living and Investing in France Conference vs. purchasing the same property 30 days later would have cost over $37,000.
This stresses the importance of considering the currency issue you will inevitably face well in advance of your actual purchase.
For more information, contact Douglas Johnson, Private Client Desk Manager, [email protected]
Moneycorp Inc Suite 105 909 Montgomery Street San Francisco California 94133 USA Tel: +1 (415) 678 2770 Fax: +1 (415) 773 1822 Email: [email protected], http://www.Moneycorp.com
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SEEKING A MORTGAGE IN FRANCE?
Let us help you secure a mortgage in France with interest rates as low as 3%. Visit https://adrianleeds.com/wp-content/uploads/newsletters/frenchproperty/loan for more information.
RECOMMENDED LENDERS
Abbey National
David Anderson, Mortgage Advisor
[email protected]

Banque Patrimoine et Immobilier
Stéphane Denner,
ExPatriate & Non Resident Service
[email protected]
[email protected]

Barclays
Contact Yolanda Robins
[email protected]

Entenial
Contact Yolanda Robins
[email protected]

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PROPERTY SEARCH SERVICES
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.
For more information, visit https://adrianleeds.com/wp-content/uploads/newsletters/frenchproperty/insider/propertyconsultation.html or contact Yolanda Robins, [email protected]

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Renovating and Furnishing
Your Rental Property in Paris
by FPI
https://adrianleeds.com/wp-content/uploads/newsletters/frenchproperty/insider/renovation.html

THE “APRÈS VENTE”
After the sale, we can continue to help you settle into your new home.
Welcome Package: We can assist you in opening a French bank account and coordinate the activation of the utilities in your home or apartment, including cable TV, Internet, telephone, gas and electricity. We can provide you with a list of qualified moving and shipping providers, insurance companies and assist you in coordinating your move and placement of your homeowner’s insurance.
Additional Services: We also provide other services such as replacement of locks and keys, coordination of rental property management providers, attend homeowner’s association meetings on your behalf and employ housekeeping services.
RENOVATION AND INTERIORS
Whether there are minor repairs or major renovations to be performed, we are your partner on the ground in France.
Renovations — Phase I: We can assist you in obtaining a minimum of two bids from qualified professionals based upon defining the specifications with you. We will advise you on which modifications, such as kitchen or bath renovations, will provide you with the best return on your investment.
Renovations — Phase II: Once you have selected a plan for renovation, we can oversee every aspect of the project management. We will provide you with weekly updates, including status reports and photos. We can also coordinate payments if you have financed the renovation project through a lender.
Interiors and Decoration: We can assist you in finding a qualified interior decorator based upon your parameters. We can also provide project management services and weekly updates on the status of the project.
FEES AND COMMISSIONS
Après Vente (After the Sale)
Relocation Package: $750 Paid in Advance
Renovations and Interiors
Renovation — Phase I: $1,000 Paid in Advance
Renovation — Phase II: 10% of Project Costs Less Phase I
Interiors: $1,000 Paid in Advance Applied Toward 10% of Project Costs

Additional Services: $125 per Hour
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PARIS PROPERTY PICKS: IMOINVEST PROPERTIES…
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/insider/propertyconsultation.html
* MINUTES FROM ALL THE TOURISTIC SIGHTS
France – Paris / Ile de France – 19eme Arrondissement

Asking Price: 1,000,000 Euros + 2% Finder’s Fee
Situated just minutes by foot from the Métro station, Parc de la Villette, Cite des Sciences, gorgeous parc of the Buttes Chaumont, as well as the infamous Montmartre. This 5 story building has been used primarily for offices, but has a very adaptable layout to a variety of uses. Although the 19eme is not one of Paris’ more elite arrondissements, it is very safe: experiencing a strong revival starting 3 years ago, and is the closest arrondissment in Paris to the Charles de Gaulle international airport.
* ANNUALLY IMPROVING NEIGHBORHOOD NEAR BASTILLE
France – Paris / Ile de France – 11eme Arrondissement

NEW LISTING
Asking Price: 1,000,000 Euros + 2% Finder’s Fee
The building is located in a popular and nice area of Paris which is improving itself every year. As an investment, this is a very good purchase because of the character of the building, prime location, and the fact that it needs refurbishment, which means that you are getting it for a very good price compared to the area. The interior offers nice spaces, but all the flats inside are single rooms with a shared bathroom on each floor. The building was a small manufacturing plant in the past, and each floor has since been split into many small rooms.
Although it does need so
me renovation (the hallways are dark, wood paneling, and door adjustments are necessary), it is an excellent purchase because no matter what you make of it (office space, hotel, storefront, etc), someone will always want to sign a lease in this location. You can easily foresee an upscale quarter here in the near future. All the surrounding buildings are in excellent condition. A building like this in a highly residential and commercial area is a great value at this price, and definitely worth putting a little money into for renovation.

* NEAR SORBONNE, LUXEMBOURG, PANTHEON … IN THE HEART OF IT ALL!
RESIDENCE SAINT ANDRE DES ARTS
France, Paris / Ile de France, 6eme Arrondissement

NEW LISTING
One Bedroom 54m² to 54m²
Asking price: 460,000 Euros + 2% Finder’s Fee

Walk to the Seine, rue de Buci, rue de Mazarine, rue de Seine, art galleries, restaurants, cafés, chic boutiques, the Jardin du Luxembourg, the Panthéon, La Sorbonne … this rare opportunity to own a flat in the most desirable and “Parisian” area of Paris is at your fingertips!
This enviable apartment is situated in a typical Haussmann building, boasting a vast lounge with fireplace, 2 large windows with lovely street view, soaring 3 meter ceilings, built-in cupboards and bookshelves, and an equipped kitchen and bathroom. The perfect pied-à-terre in the heart of Paris!
Rent Rating: ****
District Type: Residential Commercial Tourist
Tourism: High
Apartments: Traditional
Population: Affluent
Transport: Excellent

Ambiance
The sixth arrondissement divides into three main areas: Saint Germain des Prés, Luxembourg, and the south western rue de Rennes leading to Montparnasse. St Germain des Prés is an extension of the Latin Quarter and has all the same characteristics with a slightly more chic, artistic and intellectual feel to it. As a result, there are many art galleries, interior design shops, cinema and bookshops, as well as restaurants, cafés and bars. The Luxembourg quarter, while slightly calmer is just as chic. Forming the center point of the area, the beautiful Palais du Luxembourg with its Jardin du Luxembourg popular with families, tourists and students. Rue de Rennes is a busy shopping district and the rue du Cherche Midi offers a host of independent boutiques. The smaller streets bordering the seventh are somewhat calmer and residential.
Apartments
Apartments are on the more expensive side due to its central location, its views of the river, its parks and its proximity to the popular seventh arrondissement. Haussmann style architecture reigns in the district, and some quirkier apartments can be found in the St Germain area, although none are disappointing. The southern areas towards Boulevard Montparnasse offer similarly priced apartments and although the ambiance is slightly less touristy it is always very busy. Although principally residential and commercial many of the buildings are now home to business. Traffic and parking are far from easy but public transport is excellent.
The Animation Arrondissement
Student life is overflowing in the Odéon neighborhood of the 6th arrondissement, lively both at day and at night! Pedestrian streets are coveted for their numerous clothes shops. The cinemas which have set up every two meters do not stop you from enjoying your leisurely stroll, as not far from here is the Jardin du Luxembourg in its verdant, relaxing setting.
Not far from the Saint-Michel fountain, you can enter the medieval universe of the Îlot Saint-André, which will charm you with its picturesque lanes. In short, the Odéon neighborhood will delight you with its two opposing facets: the animation of the streets and boulevards, and the peace of its narrow lanes, which breathe out authenticity and old Paris!
On leaving the Odéon neighborhood you will arrive in a key neighborhood of the 6th arrondissement: Saint Germain des Prés. Here, luxury is the key word. However, this neighborhood has undergone an enormous upheaval: the jazz cafés and the Deux Magots, a famous café frequented by numerous intellectuals, have disappeared. This neighborhood has become in fashion, and is now very chic and very coveted. On Saturdays crowds similar to those on the Champs Elysées wander down the Rue de Rennes, the most commercial street of Paris. The 6th arrondissement is a place where animation is the order of the day!
For Lovers of Leisurely Walks:
Always full of people and lively, the Jardin du Luxembourg is a favored place in this neighborhood, and when summer arrives a mass of people meet here. It is an ideal place to meet people and to see all of Paris. If you want to be charmed by the signs of the past, the Îlot St André des Arts and the Cour du Commerce will take you on a walk back in time, from the Middle Ages to the 18th century. Finally, the St Germain des Prés neighborhood opens the doors to an authentic small village, with the Place de Furstenberg. You can take your time wandering around the stalls of the Grand Marché de Buci. The St Sulpice neighborhood is also a very pleasant neighborhood with its numerous small old roads organized in a star shape around the Place St Sulpice, such as the Rue du Cherche Midi, an ancient Roman road from the 14th century.
For Lovers of Culture:
The Odéon neighborhood contains numerous cultural sites: the Musée d’ Histoire de la Médecine, the Musée de la Minéralogie and the Musée du Luxembourg which houses the Senate. For a pleasant rest, you can attend a show at the Théâtre de l’Odéon. As rich as the Odéon neighborhood, Saint Germain des Prés also possesses numerous museums. The Musée Delacroix, which relates the life of the painter, the Musée de la Monnaie, the Musée Zadkine, which is the museum d
isplaying the work of the Russian sculptor Zadkine, and, finally, the Musée Hébert, which offers us its view of Italy through its paintings.

For Lovers of Shopping:
Saint Germain des Prés is a place where shopping is the key activity. Its distinctive feature is the emergence over several years of clothes shops which have stifled the other shops and taken their place. The Rue de Rennes is the most commercial street in Paris, and is a “must”, as is the Boulevard de l’Odéon.
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HOT PROPERTY PICKS: IMMOINVEST PROPERTIES…
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/insider/propertyconsultation.html
* RESIDENCE SELUDIERNE
France, Britanny / Normandy, Landevant

Four Bedrooms or More 364m² to 364m²
Asking Price 362,000 Euros + 2% Finder’s Fee

Near the heart of Broceliande, otherwise known as King Arthur/Merlin country. Located just 15 minutes from the Atlantic Coast beaches, and yet hidden in the Briton countryside. Built on the site of the village chapel, re-using many of the old (very old) stones, set in a surrounding garden of 3000m2, and encompassed by a 3 hectare site. With handfuls of charm, tranquillity and Celtic surprises, this is an opportunity not to be missed.
Fantastic property circa 1700, consisting of 5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, lovely kitchen, comfortable sitting room, quaint study, and two cozy word burning stoves. Modern conveniences include central heat, satellite TV, and broadband Internet, all nestled in 8 acres of gorgeous foliage and mature landscaping with extra house and two attached workshops, terraced BBQ area, and parking for 5 cars. A unique bonus is the bread oven with a mature oak tree growing on top, nearby well, and the ruins of the former chapel’s lavoir (public washing place).
A fantastic place to get away from it all, and yet be close to it all, being just 2.2km from the village center, 3km from the N24 and N165 motorways, and 1h45 from St Malo.
Main House – 216 m2
Second House – 91 m2
Adjoining Workshops – 57m2

The main village is only 2.2km away, and offers 3 banks, a supermarket, two restaurants, 4 bars, 2 schools, a post office, tabac, 2 bakeries, 2 garages, a multi-media center, and so much more. The house acts as an integral part of the village but at the same time proclaims its independence, enjoying the security of neighbors, with the benefit of seclusion.
Blavet River – 10 minutes
Auray – 12 minutes
Golf – 15 minutes
Thalassotherapy Centre – 20 minutes
Carnac – 20 minutes
Erdeven – 25 minutes
Cote Savage – 35 minutes
Belle Isle – 35 minutes to ferry, 40 minutes crossing
Please note that the roofs need reworking. You’ll have noticed from the photos that at this point the roof has a bache — the work to re-new the roof has started but isn’t finished — hence the low price. There are approved plans for the re-roofing in water reed. We have official quotations for the completion of work @ £30,000.


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LEASEBACK NEWS: IMOINVEST
* LUXURY ON THE MOUNTAINS
GRAND PANORAMA 2
France, French Alps, Valmeinier

NEW LISTING
Chalets / Villas 68m² to 68m²
Asking Price: 259,000 Euros to 263,000 Euros + 2% Finder’s Fee

LEASEBACK PROPERTY
GUARANTEED RENTAL INCOME OF UP TO: 4.94%
Among the most recent of the Maurienne resorts, laid out on both Alpes du Sud and Alpes du Nord, Valmeinier invites people to share its sun and snow. Set at the bottom of the Mont Thabor and close to the Parcs Nationaux de la Vanoise et des Ecrins, this place conveys two different ambiances, the one of a quiet village in the mountain and that of a busy modern resort: At elevation 1500m, there is the tradition of a village with genuine chalets made of stone and lauze looking at the beautiful surrounding summits. At elevation 1800m, at the very edg
e of the ski runs, stands an elevated ski resort shaped in the modern style, but thoroughly merging to the wild and peaceful environment.

The chalets and apartments of Grand Panorama will be built around a central square creating a typical village atmosphere. Designed to provide comfort and refined modernity as well as luxurious services allowing a maximum feeling of relaxation and well being, the chalets will be fully furnished and will have services/facilities, such as swimming pool, sauna, Jacuzzi, and cleaning and laundry services. The apartments will be constructed according to the traditional mountain architecture with wood and stone facades, roof made of stone, and balconies to take advantage of the magnificent views of the Mont Thabor. The chalets/apartments have a capacity of 4 to 10 people.
Due to its location in a virgin land, Valmeinier features a preserved spot and an incredible Savoyard landscape. Le Grand Panorama 2 also enjoys an exceptional cover of sun and snow, enough for making it a high standard skiing place: 150 km of runs, 70% of which above an elevation of 2000m, 33 ski lifts and 41 snow guns, to ensure skiing from early December to late April.
DELIVERY DECEMBER 2006
THE FINE PRINT

PROPERTY DETAILS
Investment Type: MNP/LMNP – Residence de Tourisme
Program name: “Le Grand Panorama 2”
Location description: French Alps. Savoie. Accessible by car: Chambery (1 hour), Grenoble (1 hour 20 minutes), Lyon (2 hours) and by train (4 hours away from Paris by TGV)
Price and size range: 34m2 to 37m2 apartments (6 people capacity) / 68 m2 apartments (10 people capacity) from ?259,700 to ?263,700
Completion Date: December 2006
New/Old property: New property
VAT Refund: Full VAT refund
Rating: 4 stars
Number of Units: 161
Extras: 71 indoor parking lots and 18 outdoor parking lots, shops (bakery, supermarket, press shop…) swimming pool, Jacuzzi, sauna, cleaning and laundry services, private ski cabinets.
LEASE DETAILS

Rental Income: Up to 4,94%
Occupation Option: Yes (2 weeks: 1st week during Christmas holidays or French holidays in February and the 2nd week during the period of July 1st -August 31st)
Exchange Possibilities: Yes
Lease Duration: 11 years and 4 months starting December 22, 2006 but the rent will not be due before April 1st, 2007
Exit Strategies: Renewable lease
Payment of the rent: Quarterly
Rental Base: Tourists

* COMBINING LOCATION, QUALITY, AND STRONG RENTAL INCOME
HAUTS D’ANDILLY
France, Paris / Ile de France, Engheins

NEW LISTING!
Studio
19m² to 19m²
Asking Price:
57,230 Euros to 59,150 Euros + 2% Finder’s Fee

One Bedroom
30m² to 30m²
Asking Price:
83,100 Euros to 84,900 Euros + 2% Finder’s Fee

LEASEBACK PROPERTY GUARANTEED RENTAL INCOME OF UP TO: 5.78%
On the border of the Montmorency forest, near the golf course, and only minutes from Paris and Engheins, les Hauts d’Andilly boasts a convenient location with impressive guaranteed rental income. The numerous shops and sports facilities nearby offer a plethora of distractions.
The residence is composed of 129 units consisting of studios and duplex suites (some with large private balconies). Situated in relaxed landscaped surroundings, it is truly a perfect location, combining combines comfort and proximity to Paris. With its zinc roof and red tiles, elegant facade with private balconies and large glass windows, the residence expresses a typical Parisian flair.
Located in the region of Val d’Oise which is a vast region of a total surface of 1 253 km2 and 1,049,598 inhabitants. The area is full of prestigious chateaux and chapels which witness its long history.
DELIVERY 1ST QUARTER 2007
THE FINE PRINT

PROPERTY DETAILS
Investment Type: MNP/LMNP – Residence Hotelière
Program name: “Les Hauts d’Andilly”
Location description: Located 5 km from Engheins and 15 km away from Paris at the borders of the Montmorency forest.
Price and size range: Studios of 19 m2 from ?57,230 to ?59,150 and suites of 30 m2 from ?83,100 to ?84,900.
Completion Date: 1st quarter 2007
New/Old property: New property
VAT Refund: Full VAT refund
Rating: 3 stars
Number of Units: 129
Extras: Reception, guardian, outdoor parking, lift, cleaning and laundry services, restaurant
LEASE DETAILS

Rental Income: Up to 5.78%
Occupation Option: No (but the management company has a discount policy of 15% on the public price for the owners who would like to stay in their apartments)
Exchange Possibilities: No
Lease Duration: 9 years
Exit Strategies: Renewable lease
Payment of the rent: Bi annually (January and July)
Rental Base: Tourists

================================
Paris Auctions
http://www.encheres-Paris.com
Next session:
April 5 2005, 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 website 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 Ho
ffman’s article about the property auctions in Paris, click on:
https://adrianleeds.com/wp-content/uploads/newsletters/frenchproperty/insider/subscribersonly/articles/auctions1.html

3 rooms 61,5 m²
50 rue Raymond Losserand
75014 PARIS 14the
Starting Bid: 218 000,00 Euros
Deposit: 43,600 Euros

 

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


PARLER PARIS APRES MIDI

NEXT MEETING: Tuesday, April 12th, 2004 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.

For a detail description of the past meeting and for more information
about Parler Paris Après Midi, visit:
https://adrianleeds.com/wp-content/uploads/newsletters/parlerparis/apresmidi.html

LOCATION:
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

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

INSIDER PARIS GUIDES DISCOUNT FOR FPI SUBSCRIBERS

Don’t forget that with your FPI subscription you are entitled to a discount on the purchase of any Insider Paris Guides. You’ll find details of the guides at http://www.insiderparisguides.com/. When ordering, a box will pop up allowing you to enter the following username/password
Order more than one guide at a time and you will receive an additional discount!
Username: propertyinsider
Password: liveinfrance

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

THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW

– To access this password protected page:

The username is: fpisubscriber
The password is: paris1001

If your computer utilizes cookies, once you log into a subscriber only section, the login information will remain active for seven days, after which you will have to login again.

– 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/subscribersonly/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/subscribersonly/reports.html

======= CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING ======


==APARTMENT RENTAL==

SAINT GERMAIN DES PRES
Exceptional designer 3-BR apt
* 2300 sq/ft
* 2nd floor apt
* 3 Bedrooms
* Sleeps up to 8

This exclusive 2nd and 3rd floor duplex apartment is located in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, the cultural, artistic, and fashion center of Paris. One block away from the Saint-Germain church and fashionable literary watering holes Café de Flore, Les Deux Magots and Brasserie Lipp, a stroll away from the Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, Musée Maillol – which is located right next to Barthelmy’s, arguably best cheese shop in the western world.
Very spacious, redesigned in 2002 with exquisite taste, this luxurious apartment has 13-foot ceilings balanced by an original Ingo Maurer chandelier in the entrance, and French windows. Please note: there is an extra $190 charge per day and per person when the apartment is rented by more than 4 guests.
S5,990 – S6,890 / wk
$19,990 – $21,890 / mo

For more information, email: [email protected]

==APARTMENT RENTAL==

Think of coming to Paris before it high season — check http://www.parismarais.com — THE reference Web site for le Marais. Discover selected hotels and the best places to shop as well as last minute promotions on luxury weekly rentals.
For example: 4-star studios at only 100 euros per night instead of 140 or a loft rue Charlot at only 800 Euros per week… Visit now!
http://www.parismarais.com

==GUEST ROOM/CHAMBRE D’HOTE==
Leeds Marais Guest Room
Located in a 17th century Le Marais Hotel Particulier, this 70 square me
ter two-bedroom apartment with lots of light is nicely furnished and is perfect for a single woman in the freshly renovated guest room when owner Adrian Leeds.

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

==APARTMENT RENTAL==

The best and easiest way to find an apartment in Paris…

So, you want to rent your own “pied-à-terre” for a week, a month or a year? It’s easy — there are thousands of apartments in Paris to call home, but it’s not so fast and easy to surf through all the thousands to fine the one perfect for you.

For just $39, we’ll do all the legwork and you’ll just move in and unpack. Let us do a customized search for you with our favorite short-term vacation rental agents!

To start your search, contact Yolanda Robins at [email protected]

==APARTMENT RENTALS==

For all short term rental apartments in Paris, take a look at https://adrianleeds.com/wp-content/uploads/newsletters/parlerparis/apartments or https://adrianleeds.com/wp-content/uploads/newsletters/frenchproperty/insider/longterm.html for long term apartments.

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

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/

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

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 2005, Adrian Leeds Group, LLC

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