Recent figures suggest that Paris real estate investment outperformed the stock market over a 20-year period. Between 1997 and 2017, the value of Paris real estate quintupled.
Paris real estate investment better than the stock market
Paris real estate prices increased by 400% on average during this period. More central districts saw even greater increases. The figures were not particularly affected by inflation, which increased by 30% during the same period.
In this same 20-year time frame, the Paris stock market only increased by 90%.
Gentrification contributes to increase in value of Paris real estate
This increase was partially caused by the gentrification of various arrondissements (districts), such as the 2nd and the 10th . A district like the 16th, which has long been up-scale, still saw prices triple in this period.
Paris remains more accessible than other world capitals
Paris also holds its own against renowned cities across the globe. As a result of Brexit, Paris is closer than ever to catching up with London. As we previously reported, London’s most expensive neighborhood, Kensington & Chelsea, had an average price of £11,192/m² (12,378€/m2) in the period from May to July 2017. Paris’ 6th district, the most expensive in the city, was not far behind at 12,320 €/m². Despite this, average prices in the center of Paris (9,875€/m²) remain more accessible compared to New York (10,933€/m²), London (14,692€/m²) and Hong Kong (21,885€/m²).
Reasonably priced property still available in Paris
Despite the increase in demand, there are still great Parisian investment properties to be found. For example, this air-conditioned studio apartment is currently for sale in Paris’ trendy Marais district. There are also more mid-range properties available, such as this modernized one-bedroom apartment in a stunning 18th century town house, also in the Marais. Additionally, there are exceptional high-end properties available, like this grand two-bedroom apartment near the famous Champs-Elysées.
So, does this all suggest that now is a good time to sell in Paris? We at 56Paris think that now is definitely a great time to sell: Real estate prices and volume are up and demand is at an all-time high. Consequently, it is an ideal time to maximize profit. Traditionally, it takes around 5 years of property ownership to off-set initial investment. This is after the purchase price, closing costs and renovation expenses are accounted for.
However, in Paris these days you could break even after 3-4 years. This depends on how your purchase price compared to the property’s market value at the time. If it was lower, you could break even still earlier.
Prices continue to increase
Despite this, current notarial pricing data suggests that prices will continue to increase. We previously reported that the Chambre des Notaires de Paris (Paris Chamber of Notaries) predict that by April, average prices in Paris will reach 9,300€/m². Therefore, it is certainly also safe to keep your property if selling does not currently fit your agenda.
The bottom line is that Paris real estate investment offers a better return than the stock market. The current trend is such that you have the luxury of making the decision that best suits your individual situation. To discuss this further or for advice on investing in Paris real estate, please contact us.
Photo credit: Eric Pouhier