Vendee Real Estate: A Complete Guide to Buying & Selling in the French Countryside

The Vendée region of France is a hidden gem for real estate investment, offering stunning coastal landscapes, charming rural villages, and affordable property prices. Whether you’re looking for a vacation home, retirement property, or a long-term investment, Vendée real estate provides excellent opportunities.

Located in the Pays de la Loire region on France’s west coast, Vendée attracts buyers seeking mild weather, scenic countryside, and a relaxed lifestyle. With its rich history, beautiful beaches, and growing tourism sector, real estate in Vendée is in high demand among both French and international buyers.

In this article, you’ll discover:

• Why Vendée is a top location for real estate investment
  The different types of properties available
  Average real estate prices in Vendée
  The process of buying and selling property in Vendée
  Tips for foreign buyers looking to invest

Let’s dive into everything you need to know about Vendée real estate! 

Why Invest in Vendée Real Estate?

Vendée offers a perfect balance of affordability, natural beauty, and strong rental potential. Here’s why it’s an attractive choice for real estate buyers:

• Beautiful coastal and countryside locations – Vendée is known for its long sandy beaches, forests, and rolling farmlands.
  Lower property prices – Compared to the French Riviera or Provence, Vendée real estate is more affordable, offering great value for buyers.
  Strong tourism market – With over 5 million visitors per year, short-term rental properties are in high demand.
  Mild climate – Vendée enjoys a temperate oceanic climate, with warm summers and mild winters, making it ideal for year-round living.
  Good transport links – Vendée is well-connected to Nantes, La Rochelle, and Paris via train, highways, and nearby airports.

Key takeaway: Whether you’re looking for a holiday home, permanent residence, or rental investment, Vendée provides great opportunities at competitive prices.

Types of Properties Available in Vendée

Vendée offers a variety of real estate options, including:

Traditional Stone Farmhouses

Beautiful rural properties with exposed stone walls and wooden beams.
Often located in the countryside or near small villages.
Ideal for renovation projects or turning into bed & breakfast properties.

Example: A four-bedroom farmhouse with land can be found for around €250,000 – €400,000.

Coastal Holiday Homes

• Located near Les Sables-d’Olonne, Saint-Jean-de-Monts, and La Tranche-sur-Mer.
  Perfect for vacation rentals or second homes.
  Prices depend on proximity to the beach—oceanfront villas are more expensive.

Example: A three-bedroom beachfront house costs between €350,000 – €600,000.

Modern Villas & Apartments

• Found in new developments near popular towns.
  Often include energy-efficient designs, pools, and private gardens.
  Great for families, retirees, and investors seeking rental income.

Example: A two-bedroom modern apartment in La Roche-sur-Yon costs around €150,000 – €250,000.

Château & Luxury Estates

• Historic properties with large land plots, vineyards, or equestrian facilities.
  Perfect for luxury buyers or boutique hotel investments.
  Prices range from €500,000 to several million euros, depending on size and location.

Example: A 19th-century château with 10 hectares of land can cost around €1.5 million.

Key takeaway: Whether you prefer a cozy countryside retreat or a luxury beachfront villa, Vendée has a property to match your needs.

Vendée Real Estate Prices (2024 Update)

Vendée remains one of the most affordable coastal regions in France, with property prices significantly lower than in Provence or the Côte d’Azur.

Average Property Prices in Vendée:

Property Type	Average Price (€/m²)	Typical Price Range (€)
Apartment (city center)	€2,500 – €3,500	€150,000 – €300,000
Apartment (coastal)	€3,000 – €5,500	€250,000 – €600,000
Detached House	€1,800 – €2,800	€200,000 – €450,000
Luxury Villa	€4,000 – €6,500	€500,000 – €1.5M+
Farmhouse/Rural Property	€1,200 – €2,500	€150,000 – €400,000

Why it matters: Vendée property prices offer excellent value, making it a great place for expats, retirees, and investors looking for a mix of affordability and quality of life.

How to Buy Property in Vendée

Step-by-Step Guide to Buying Real Estate in Vendée:

Step 1: Define Your Budget & Location – Decide between coastal, countryside, or city properties.
Step 2: Find a Local Real Estate Agent – French real estate agents help with property searches, legal requirements, and negotiations.
Step 3: Visit Properties & Make an Offer – In France, offers are typically made in writing.
Step 4: Sign the Preliminary Contract (“Compromis de Vente”) – This legally binds both parties, and a 10% deposit is required.
Step 5: Secure Financing (if needed) – If you need a mortgage, work with a French bank or international lender.
Step 6: Final Signing & Ownership Transfer – The final contract (“Acte de Vente”) is signed at a notary’s office, completing the sale.

Tip: Foreign buyers should hire a bilingual real estate agent and notary to navigate the process smoothly.

Selling Property in Vendée: What You Need to Know

If you’re selling a property in Vendée, follow these steps:

• Set the right price – Use a real estate agent or property valuation service.
  Prepare the necessary documents – Energy performance certificate (DPE), property tax records, etc.
  List your property online & with local agents – Target French and international buyers.
  Negotiate offers & sign contracts – Work with a notary for legal security.
  Complete the sale – The final deed is signed, and payment is transferred.

Tip: Vendée’s tourism appeal makes coastal properties especially attractive to buyers seeking rental investments.

Tips for Foreign Buyers Investing in Vendée Real Estate

• Understand the legal system – Property laws differ from those in the US or UK.
  Hire a local notary (“notaire”) – Required for all property transactions in France.
  Consider rental income potential – Vendée’s tourism sector offers great Airbnb and vacation rental opportunities.
  Factor in additional costs – Notary fees, taxes, and maintenance costs can add 7-10% to the purchase price.
  Learn some basic French – While many agents speak English, having basic French knowledge can be helpful.

Conclusion

Absolutely! Vendée real estate offers affordability, strong rental demand, and a high quality of life. With its scenic coastline, charming villages, and growing tourism industry, it’s an excellent place to buy property for residential living, vacation homes, or investment purposes.

Thinking about buying or selling property in Vendée? Now is a great time to invest! 

FAQs 

1. Is Vendée a good place to buy property?

Yes! Vendée offers affordable property prices, beautiful coastal and countryside locations, and a strong rental market. With its mild climate, vibrant tourism industry, and good transport links, it’s an attractive location for both holiday homes and long-term investments.

2. Can foreigners buy property in Vendée?

Yes! France has no restrictions on foreign buyers, and purchasing property in Vendée follows the same legal process as for French citizens. However, foreign buyers should hire a bilingual real estate agent and notary to assist with legal paperwork and ensure a smooth transaction.

3. What are the average property prices in Vendée?

• Property prices in Vendée vary by location and property type. On average:
• Apartments in city centers: €2,500 – €3,500 per m²
• Coastal homes: €3,000 – €5,500 per m²
• Detached houses in rural areas: €1,800 – €2,800 per m²
• Luxury villas & châteaux: €500,000 – €1.5M+

Vendée real estate is significantly more affordable than properties in Provence or the Côte d’Azur.

4. What are the best towns to buy property in Vendée?

• Some of the best locations for buying property in Vendée include:
• Les Sables-d’Olonne – A beautiful seaside town with a strong rental market.
• La Roche-sur-Yon – The economic center of Vendée, great for year-round living.
• Saint-Jean-de-Monts – A popular coastal destination with stunning beaches.
• Fontenay-le-Comte – A charming town known for its historic architecture and countryside appeal.

5. What additional costs should I consider when buying a property in Vendée?

• In addition to the purchase price, buyers should budget for:
• Notary fees & legal costs: 7-10% of the property price.
• Property taxes: Taxe foncière (annual property tax) and taxe d’habitation (if applicable).
• Renovation costs: If buying an older farmhouse or château.
• Maintenance & insurance: Especially for vacation homes or rental properties.

Also read: Hotel Ibiti: 10 Must-See Attractions Nearby