Several of our English-speaking clients have acquired and partially or fully renovated an apartment in Paris, with excellent results. They have found that the cost and anxiety associated with renovation projects is considerably less than similar undertakings in the United States.

Goals. A well-managed renovation project accomplishes at least two very desirable goals.

First, properties that need full renovation are sold below market price. Purchasers who buy low and do quality renovations will get the most value for their money, both in current and in resale value.

The opposite is true as well. Most buyers prefer turnkey occupancy to undertaking a renovation project. Sellers know that, and therefore market their freshly renovated apartments at a substantial markup.

Second, once the project is finished you have optimized all the reasons for which smart buyers acquire an apartment in Paris: to make a wise financial investment, to engage with the world’s most exciting city, and to make a quantum leap toward a richer and more enjoyable lifestyle.

Avoiding trauma. Anyone who has owned a property knows how anxiety-ridden a home renovation can be. It seems the project always takes longer and costs more than your architect or contractor told you. Renovations are even more troublesome when you live in the property being worked on.

Of course you do not have the last problem if you’re a non-resident owner. As for finishing on time and on budget, the key to these goals is to engage a competent and trustworthy company to design, price and oversee the project for you. There are numerous talented and competent renovation teams in Paris with a reputation for finishing on time and without major cost overruns.

The process. Prior to starting the project you will spend time with the renovation team, which will prepare drawings for your approval. You will select colors, materials and finishes, and may be called on to make some on-the-spot decisions once the project is underway. But you will not talk to a carpenter, electrician, plumber, painter, window installer or other provider. Their work is organized and controlled by the renovation expert who oversees the project. Your chief activity will be writing checks to pay for the renovations as they progress from one stage to another.

Selecting a project management team. Obviously, the key to a successful project is to select the right management team. You want a project manager who communicates effectively in English, understands your goals, is pleasant to work with, and has a track record of managing on-time and on-budget renovations .

Just France Sales has worked with well-qualified renovation experts and can help you select the team most suitable for your project.

Costs. A good-quality renovation in Paris generally costs between 2,000 € and 2,500 € a square meter, all materials and fees included. A top-quality renovation with premium materials and appliances can run between 2,500 € and 3,000 € per m2.

The essentials. Of course, the key to a successful renovation project is to start with a property that has the three indispensable elements that can’t be changed. These are (a) a good location, (b) a well-maintained building with reasonably attractive common areas and ideally an elevator, and (c) good “bones” in the apartment – adequate ceiling height, plenty of natural light, floor materials that will respond to refinishing, etc. These elements can’t be improved on no matter how generous your budget.

The payoff. The cost to renovate an apartment with good taste and quality materials will be amply repaid by its immediate increase in value. Should you resell, a renovation done in good taste using quality materials will maximize your chances for a quick sale at a premium price.

Ask us. Just France Sales can help you find an apartment in Paris to renovate, and then can help you identify a renovation team that is right of your project. Contact us by phone or email. There’s no cost or obligation.