Why is the Luberon so popular with buyers of second homes?
The Luberon is not like other property destinations. It boasts a rare combination of assets: unspoilt countryside designated a Regional Nature Park, some of France’s most beautiful hilltop villages (Gordes, Ménerbes, Lacoste, Oppède…), reasonable accessibility from Paris (a 3-hour TGV journey to Avignon), and above all a quality of life that is increasingly lacking in major cities.
It is no coincidence that demand remains strong here even during periods of a slowdown in the national market. Buyers come from Lyon, Bordeaux and Paris — but also, increasingly, from Belgium, Switzerland and the UK.
Questions to ask yourself before buying
1. What will you actually use the property for?
This is the first question, and it determines everything else. Just a few weeks a year? You might prefer a property that’s easy to lock up and low-maintenance. Regular use, or perhaps plans to work from home part-time? The criteria change: internet connection, an office, and a garden usable in spring and autumn become priorities.
2. Seasonal rental or not?
Many buyers consider renting out their property when they are not using it, to cover some of the running costs. This is a perfectly valid option in the Luberon, where demand for seasonal rentals is high, but it involves real constraints: registration with the local council, specific tax rules, managing guest arrivals and departures, and increased maintenance. We advise you to consider this right from the start of your property search, as not all properties are equally suited to letting.
3. Which village, which aspect?
The Luberon is a diverse region. The northern slopes (around Apt, Rustrel and Simiane) are more authentic and more affordable. The southern side, with Lourmarin, Cucuron and La Tour-d’Aigues, offers a milder microclimate and a livelier atmosphere. The western Luberon, with Ménerbes, Lacoste, Bonnieux and Gordes, is the most sought-after and the most expensive. Each area has its own character: it is important to visit at different times of year if possible.
4. Overall budget: don’t forget the associated costs
Purchase price, solicitor’s fees (around 7–8% for older properties), any renovation work, council tax (which can be significant for high-end properties), service charges if applicable, home insurance, garden or pool maintenance… The actual cost of a second home often exceeds initial estimates. It’s best to plan for this.
Pitfalls to avoid
Don’t visit out of season. A country house that seems idyllic in July may reveal damp problems in winter, a difficult access road, or very intrusive seasonal neighbours.
Neglecting the condition of the roof, façade and drainage. In old Provençal buildings, these two areas are often the most expensive to repair. A pre-purchase survey is strongly recommended.
Underestimating the remoteness. Some very isolated properties seem attractive at the time of purchase, but become a hindrance in practice, particularly when it comes to remote management, tradespeople’s visits, or access during periods of frost or heavy rain.
What we can do for you
At Les Écrins Immobilier, we operate throughout the Luberon region. Our role goes beyond simply showing you properties: we help you refine your plans, understand the specific characteristics of each area, and secure your purchase, from negotiation right through to signing at the solicitor’s office.
If you are considering a purchase in the Luberon, even at a preliminary stage, please do not hesitate to contact us. An initial, no-obligation discussion often helps to clarify many things.
Les Écrins Immobilier
Estate agency in the Luberon