Introducing Riviera Property Search Legend – Sue Li
French Riviera Property Expert
Behind the website, the social media posts and stunning homes, there is a large team of dedicated people here at Home Hunts. Over the coming weeks and months, we will slowly introduce some of them to you.
Today, we are very pleased to introduce Sue Li. Sue has been part of the Home Hunts family for around 15 years, what she doesn’t know about Cannes and the whole coastline along to Antibes, is not worth knowing….
Since arriving in France in 2000 for her postgraduate study in Sophia Antipolis, Sue has fallen in love with the French Riviera. Now she lives in a charming village near Antibes with her husband, daughter and their big fluffy dog called Ruby.
Sue helps international buyers to find their dream homes and simplifies the buying process for them. Finding a property for sale is easy, but finding THE riviera property that a client wants to call home is more complicated. Sue loves what she is doing and has built up a great reputation with Home Hunts, our partner agents and most importantly, her clients.
What is your first memory of living in France?
Beautiful countryside, amazing sunshine and great French cuisine.
What is your favourite French tipple?
Champagne of course! Actually, I am not a big drinker, but we are very lucky in France to have such amazing wines and champagne.
How do you spend time relaxing after a busy day out and about with clients?
Go to the beach, walk the dog through the woods or relax at home with my family.
What has been the most expensive riviera property you have ever sold?
Just over 18 million euros for a waterfront villa on the Cap d’Antibes. Those clients also bought a second home nearby for their staff.
What has been the cheapest?
840 000€ which was an apartment in Cannes.
What part of the house buying process do you think overseas buyers find the most frustrating?
Understanding the compromis de vente (preliminary contract) and the understanding of the French process in general… this is where we come in. We always help our clients to understand the whole process, as well as introducing them to specialists.
In the UK it can take up to 6 months to buy a house and finally move in, what is the average time if take in France to buy a property?
3 months usually… It can be quicker sometimes but that is average.
Why have you chosen to live in this region of France?
Beautiful beaches and coastline, as well as stunning countryside and mountain scenery nearby. Lots of activities to do all year, from diving to skiing etc. The climate also played a huge part in my decision, it is hard to beat. Good food and sunshine.
Do you see yourself ever moving from this area in France, if yes where/why?
No. I love it here, France is my home.
Tell us your favourite French dish?
Bouillabaisse, I love freshly grilled fish too and all of the mediterranean salads that you get in this area, but my favourite would have to be the famous bouillabaisse, I adore it.
Do you find most overseas buyers are looking for permanent home or for holiday home? If the latter what are the key things they are seeking in their holiday home?
Most of our clients are looking for holiday homes, we do help people to relocate permanently too but the vast majority are looking for a holiday property. The key things they are seeking in their holiday home are the view and location.
What do you find is the most enjoyable aspect of your job?
Human contact: getting to know, listening to and understanding people from all over the world. Then finding their dream home together and negotiating the best possible deal. Quite a few clients have become good friends.
Describe for me what you can see from your window?
Nice open view of the sea and surrounding hillsides. I never get tired of this view.
What is the one bit of advice you would give prospective overseas buyers before they buy their dream property?
I would suggest that they really spend time getting to know areas, find a location that really suits your lifestyle.
If I can say two things… then it is also to build up an understanding of the market and talking to a property specialist (such as Home Hunts of course 😃).
Share with us any Riviera property buying tips which you think overseas buyers will benefit from.
Location, location, location….. As I said before, get to know the area, it is so important.
Why do you think your area is popular place for property buyers?
Cap d’Antibes, Cannes and Theoule sur mer are on the beautiful French Riviera coast, they all have their own feel and personality and are also close to each other.
The climate down here is a big draw (more than 300 days sunshine a year), wonderful beaches yet you are also within 15 minutes driving to the beautiful countryside and little villages in the back country of the Riviera.
Year round activities…you will never get bored living here.
Have prices moved in the past year? Is yes, please explain.
Yes, prices have shown a slight increase for the past few years on the Riviera as a whole. It is still possible to get some good deals but prices are slowly increasing.
Is there anything you would recommend clients do before purchasing a Riviera property?
Contacting Home Hunts of course!
If you are considering buying a Riviera property, or a property in France, Monaco, Spain or Switzerland, Home Hunts are here to help you to find your dream overseas property. If you would like to speak to one of the team to discuss your needs or just to have a chat about the market, you can call us on +33 970 44 66 43 or send us a mail to info@home-hunts.com. If you just want to browse through thousands of beautiful French homes, visit our website at www.home-hunts.com or follow us on Facebook or Instagram.
