Lyon Property Market and Real Estate Guide

(Lyon, Rhone Alpes, France)

A very significant French city, Lyon is the capital of the Rhône department. Situated on the convergence of two great rivers, it boasts a large number of tourist attractions, such as the Basilica of Notre Dame de Fourvière and the Lyon Museum of Contemporary Art.

This is a stylish city and as a result, property here tends to be more costly than in most other parts of France. Although prices vary from zone to zone, the most expensive and luxurious property tends to be located in the 6th arrondissement. Those searching for lower priced accommodation should check out the 3rd and 4th arrondissements.


The residential Quartier Tête d'Or is popular with families, while business people who want to be close to the business heart of the city will want to reside in the left bank Part-Dieu et Villeurbanne.

Renting Serviced Apartments

There are a large number of serviced apartments available in Lyon, and many offer stunning river views from their extensive balconies. Although renters of serviced apartments can expect to pay around twice the price of standard apartments, these one- to two-bedroom apartments and studios come fully furnished and are extremely luxurious.

Serviced apartments in Lyon are charged per night, but can also be rented on a weekly or monthly basis, with discounts available for those who stay for several weeks or months. As well as a wide range of modern facilities, many serviced apartments also include access to shared facilities, such as a swimming pool or gym.

Buying Apartments and Houses

Upon purchasing property in France, potential buyers will need to produce proof of a work contract, pay cheque slips and a valid passport. If work documents are not available, buyers will either need a French citizen to act as guarantor on their behalf or they will need to provide a bank guarantee.

In addition to property costs, purchasers also need to pay legal fees of around ten percent of the property cost, stamp duty and registry fees. Purchasers should bear in mind that they will also be subject to an annual local tax, which is calculated according to the size of the property.

Real Estate Agents

There are a large number of estate agents to choose from in Lyon and while many speak excellent English, this is not always the case. It is worth checking out individual estate agents and the companies they work for before committing to one, taking the time to check out their websites and to read customer comments.

Take a look at the following real estate agents in Lyon:

Laforêt Immobilier
Address: 37 Grande Rue Croix Rousse, Lyon, 69004, France, FR
Tel: +33 04 7898 5454
Website: www.imolion.com
One of France's leading estate agents, Laforêt Immobilier offers a wide range of properties for sale and rent in Lyon and the surrounding area.

French Entree
Address: Horizon New Media Ltd, 12 George Street, Bath, England, BA1 2EH, UK
Tel: +44 01225 463752
Email: sales@frenchentree.com
Website: www.frenchentree.com/france-lyon-property
Based in England, this modern estate agent specialises in real estate in Lyon. The agents here provide a comprehensive service, complete with advice on dealing with French property tax.

Lyons Properties
Address: Abbeyfeale, County Limerick, CR4 4LR, Ireland, IE
Tel: +353 068 31210
Website: www.lyonsproperties.ie
A friendly and approachable service is guaranteed with this estate agent, who specialises in property for sale and rent in and around Lyon.