Parisian Dream
LAUREL CONWAY OF PARIS PROPERTY AGENTS SHARES WHY LUXURY HOMEOWNERS SHOULD LOOK TO THE CITY OF LIGHTS FOR THEIR NEXT INVESTMENT
British expatriate Laurel Conway moved to Paris fresh out of university, with little idea that 25 years later she would be one of the city’s firmest advocates. Since 2017, she has been heading Paris Property Agents, a boutique real estate firm that specialises in helping foreign investors find their dream pied-à-terre in the French capital. Having grown up abroad and being fluent in both English and French, Conway is wellsuited to advising clients on the
complexities of buying overseas. The firm’s style of service promotes and nurtures longterm relationships with each client, good professional connections and deep knowledge of the real estate market. Even after a home is handed over, Conway continues to assist her clients, advising them on everything, from who to call in a plumbing crisis to the art of living like a local. Here, she shares insights into the luxury real-estate market in Paris:
What makes Paris such an alluring location for homeowners looking to invest in property abroad?
Paris is the city for people who appreciate the finer things in life, from the beauty of its architecture to the extraordinary wealth and creativity of its culture, craftsmanship and epicurean heritage. Renewal is in the air too with trendy ‘bo-bo’ (bourgeois bohemian) neighbourhoods springing to life, the upcoming Olympic Games, big transport and infrastructure projects and tech hubs—they all add to the dynamic vibe of the city. My clients also feel a more welcoming, Englishspeaking environment in Paris, than ever before. Buying a property here is also a sound investment. It is a rarity market with constant demand and steadily rising prices, not a boom and crash town. I would say that’s a fairly alluring investment with excellent returns.
What tips would you offer to Singaporeans who are interested in Parisian properties?
I always advise my clients to come to Paris a few times before committing and to stay in different areas before deciding on where to buy. What you might have assumed would be your ideal area may turn out not to be as ideal,and vice versa. Try other kinds of accommodation such as serviced apartments or luxury
short-stay rentals; it’s one thing being in a hotel with a concierge and five-star amenities, but quite another staying in an apartment and experiencing life as a local. One of the city’s greatest pleasures is a daily visit to the local boulangerie for your morning baguette. Prepare your property search several months in advance. Regular updates of suitable properties give a clear picture of the market and help define your choices. So when you see the ideal property you’ll recognise it immediately and be able to react fast at the right price. A good notary and financial advisor are also essential. Even if real estate laws are clear and well organised here, it is important to structure the purchase in your best tax and family interests. Another important tip—learn a little French, it’s so chic!
Which are some of the most popular districts in Paris?
The Golden Triangle comprising the Ave Montaigne, Ave Georges V, Place de l’alma and Trocadéro districts is lively with luxury shops and restaurants. I’ll also recommend the 6th and 7th arrondissements around the Place Saint Sulpice, Rue du Bac and Champs de Mars for their elegant charm. The Golden Triangle in the 16th arrondissement comprising La Muette and Place Victor Hugo features luxurious buildings, private streets and discreet security details due to the numerous embassies in the neighbourhood; I often recommend these areas to my Asian clientele who appreciate larger, high-quality apartments. Easy access to the airport is also a big plus. Ultimately, owning a property in Paris is all about l’artdevivre (the art of living), so my advice is to choose your home well; it’s the start to enjoying life to the fullest in Paris!