Property in Normandy
There is good access to the UK through Caen, Cherbourg and Le Havre . In the late 1990s bargains were picked up by the British, particularly around Honfleur and Deauville. Consequently local builders earned a good living renovating inexpensive cottages. The situation has changed recently but there are still bargains to be had particularly in larger rural properties.
Coastal property is relatively expensive particularly around Ouistreham, Trouville and Deauville. There is better value to be had on the Cotentin peninsular. Inland and to the south there are still some bargains in the area known as Petit Suisse (particularly around Clecy) in the Orne valley. Prices generally increase in areas most accessible from Paris for a weekend retreat.
Advantages Rolling countryside, half-timbered houses, access
The downside Few coastal bargains, English weather, British enclaves
