Buying property in Paris: expert insights into the city’s prime real estate market

Making a long-term investment in Paris

Against a fast‑changing geopolitical backdrop, and despite its own domestic headwinds, Paris continues to reinforce itself as an increasingly international city offering stability from both a lifestyle and investment perspective. “While sales volumes can change in election years, overall we don’t tend to see spikes and drops with the same force as some other prime markets. Many clients are coming to the market seeking long‑term financial security,” she says.

Home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and with limited land and strict planning regulations, Paris is also a difficult city to build in. “It keeps the market extremely stable, as there is a natural limit to the number of properties coming onto the market,” she explains.

While new builds are hard to come by, historic properties are being transformed into prestigious new addresses in some of the most sought-after quarters of the city. Although an established concept in many prime cities such as London and New York, branded residences are now arriving in Paris with the debut of a development by Maybourne, the group behind Claridge’s, set to open in 2027. Set within the 17th-century Îlot Saint-Germain and former Defense Ministry, located in the heart of the Left Bank, it will be reimagined for the 21st century into a palace-style hotel including 23 residences benefiting from these luxurious facilities.

Paris’s most desirable prime residential neighbourhoods

When it comes to price per square foot, the 7th arrondissement leads the way. Home to the Eiffel Tower and the Musée d’Orsay, and surrounded by chic restaurants and boutiques, it offers an upscale lifestyle among the city’s most iconic landmarks. Alongside the 8th and 16th arrondissement, it also hosts many embassies and administrative buildings, adding a sense of security to day‑to‑day living.

For those seeking more space, the 16th arrondissement offers tranquil green areas set against beautiful 19th‑century architecture, with top‑tier international schools making it a compelling choice for families.

A newer trend, Ashby notes, sees Millennial and Gen Z buyers gravitating toward more central districts, particularly the 9th arrondissement. Well positioned for Gare du Nord and the Eurostar to London, the area has benefited from openings such as Soho House Paris, located in a former apartment building lived in by the family of writer and poet Jean Cocteau.

What to consider when buying property in Paris

“The architecture in Paris is just stunning,” says Ashby. “I’m lucky to see some of the most incredible hôtels particuliers - standalone homes that may have been owned by only one or two families in several centuries and rarely come to market.”

Meanwhile, the 19th‑century Haussmannian buildings that shape the city’s streets are among the most admired in the world, but flats with antiquated floor plans often lack modern comforts. With construction costs on the rise, Ashby advises buyers to factor in the time and expense of updating these historic residences. “Don’t underestimate the value of not spending valuable time to undertake a renovation,” she says.

Those considering an investment purchase, or looking to rent out their property when not in use, must be aware of restrictions, commercial zoning rules and energy‑efficiency requirements. “When looking outside a lifestyle purchase, the pool of properties can be quite different, and it’s important to seek expert advice,” she advises.

Ultimately, it is the properties that showcase the city’s unique beauty that will always hold a special place in buyers’ hearts. “If you purchase an address with a panoramic or monument view, outdoor spaces or high ceilings - or a combination of these - they will always outperform, because this is what everyone desires in Paris.” 

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