Where to Buy a Second Home in Europe

Buying a Holiday Home: Crucial Considerations

When buying a second home in Europe, several crucial factors must be considered to ensure a successful investment. While for some, proximity to amenities and services such as healthcare, shopping, dining and entertainment might be top of the list, for others, their second home should be remote, avoiding areas popular with tourists and giving them a taste of life as a local.

From climate and ease of access to cost of living and resale value, every destination has its own list of pros and cons, with property prices often providing the most obvious insight into investment potential. Practically, it’s also worth understanding any legal and tax responsibilities when considering purchasing European real estate, to avoid complications down the line. 

Thankfully, when buying a holiday home with August, all of these aspects are taken care of thanks to our team of local Experts who have spent countless hours getting to know each destination inside out - from local paperwork requirements to the best beaches and restaurants. Taking the hassle out of the process for all of our Homeowners, they work within strict parameters to acquire the very best second homes in the most enviable destinations catering to even the most discerning traveller. We share a few of their favourites below.

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Property Investment in Europe: Top Destinations

Spain

• Popular regions: Barcelona, Mallorca
• Highlights: Warm climate, beautiful beaches, vibrant culture

Second home ownership in Spain, particularly in hotspots such as Mallorca and Barcelona, has become increasingly popular with both domestic and international buyers. Mallorca, with its endless Mediterranean coastline, honey-coloured villages, and vibrant cultural scene, attracts those seeking laidback island living. 

Barcelona, on the other hand, is an August top pick for urban dynamism, its streets brimming with architectural marvels yet just a stone’s throw away from a golden stretch of sand. Both locations benefit from Spain's warm climes, making them prime destinations for those seeking a sunny second home.

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France

• Popular regions: Paris, Provence, French Alps
• Highlights: Scenic vistas, fine cuisine, rich history

In France, second home ownership flourishes in iconic regions such as Paris, Provence, and the French Alps, each offering their own distinct appeal. Paris, the epitome of elegance and sophistication, draws buyers with an appreciation for art, fashion, and of course, gastronomy. The allure of owning a pied-à-terre in the City of Light remains strong, well-suited to those travelling for both business and leisure. Further south, Provence and the nearby Cote D'Azur with their rolling green landscapes, lavender fields and charming villages, offers a serene and idyllic escape that appeals to those seeking destinations rich in natural beauty.Meanwhile, the French Alps caters to lovers of the great outdoors with its world-class ski resorts and breathtaking mountain vistas. While many associate the region with winter snowsports escapes, the appeal of an alpine chalet remains off season, when the slopes turn into a mecca for hiking and mountain biking enthusiasts. 

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Italy

• Popular regions: Rome, Tuscany
• Highlights: Arts and culture, stunning landscapes, hearty cuisine 

In Italy, Rome and Tuscany stand out as prime locations for second home ownership, each offering a unique blend of history, culture, and lifestyle. The storied city of Rome captivates with its unparalleled historic legacy - from the ancient Colosseum to the opulent Vatican City - offering owners a second home with a connection to the roots of Western civilisation, alongside world-class restaurants, bustling street life, and a thriving art scene. Tuscany offers a more rural, rustic experience with its postcard perfect hillsides, vineyards, and mediaeval towns and villages. The region is famed for its wines, farm-to-table cuisine, and an altogether slower pace of living - perfect for those seeking a second home that serves as an escape from everyday hustle and bustle. 

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England

• Popular regions: London, Cotswolds 
• Highlights: Rich history, pub culture, heritage and tradition

While England might not be the first country that comes to mind when seeking a second home in Europe, London's cosmopolitan energy and the timeless beauty of the Cotswolds are not to be missed. Serving as a jumping off point for adventures across the continent, London, a bustling metropolis, presents the opportunity to own a second home in the shadows of iconic landmarks like the Tower Bridge and Buckingham Palace. 

In contrast, just an hour north of London, the Cotswolds beckon with their picturesque villages, rolling hills, and quaint stone cottages. Ideal for families, its peaceful atmosphere lends itself perfectly to those seeking a multi-destination trip combining the best of the storied British capital with the iconic British countryside. 

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When buying a second home in Europe, there are several important factors to consider and a multitude of attractive destinations to choose from, suited to different wants and needs. With August, the decision is made easier as we do the hard work for you, choosing the best locations, sourcing the finest properties and categorising them into groups of four to five homes called Collections, curated to suit the needs of multiple lifestyles. 

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With our unique co-ownership model, we then offer fractional ownership within these Collections, allowing our Homeowners to become the legal owners of up to five holiday homes all for the price of just one. Start your journey today by booking a call with one of our Advisors and soon you could be the proud owner of homes in all of the dream destinations mentioned above…