Built on a strip of land between the Mediterranean and the Etang de Thau, Sète (Hérault) attracts both beachgoers looking for a second home and year-round residents. The city aims not only to be a coastal city, but also to remain active every season with its approximately 45,000 inhabitants, its dynamic economic fabric and its rich cultural offer.
“The real estate sector has slowed down, like everywhere else, but demand remains strong and prices, in the end, have fallen little in recent months”reports Matthieu Valaize, director of the Stéphane Plaza agency in Sète. The most popular and expensive area is Mont Saint-Clair, the hill that rises above the city and offers magnificent views of the region. Although Sète is historically a port and working city, today it is difficult to find houses in this area for less than 1 million euros. However, houses of about 100 square meters can be found for between 800,000 and 900,000 euros, if there is work to do.
The second most popular neighborhood, especially for second homes: that of the Corniche, which overlooks the sea south of Sète. Houses, even in poor condition, are rare. Apartments are sold there for between 4,000 and 5,000 euros per square meter. This price can drop to 3,500 euros if the residence is a little dated and the property does not have sea views, and reach 6,000 euros, or even exceed 9,000 euros, for those with the most beautiful views and services. However, beware of the risk of overpaying for apartments in 1980s residences that require major renovations.
“You also have to take into account local taxes, which have increased considerably for second homes”warns Guillaume Audran, director of the L’Adresse La Corniche agency. In fact, the municipality has adapted its taxation to favor residents throughout the year.
More affordable prices
“First-time buyers are hit hard by high prices and can no longer buy. That is why we have launched financial aid.”explains François Commeinhes, mayor (various right) of Sète. It ranges between 4,000 and 7,000 euros, depending on the number of rooms, and allows first-time buyers to complete their financing. To receive it, you must have lived in Sète for at least two years and at least one of the spouses (if the loan is taken out by two people) must have a job in Sète.
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