France real estate market shows regional shifts in 2026

The French real estate market in early 2026 shows significant regional variations and shifting dynamics for buyers and sellers. In the Mediterranean regions, including Marseille, the Côte d'Azur, and Corsica, demand remains strong. The Riviera, specifically areas between Cannes and Saint-Tropez, continues to see record-breaking prices driven by ultra-luxury demand, with many purchases in Nice occurring without bank credit. While Corsica faces high prices in major cities and coastal areas, overall activity has slowed.

Nationally, the market has shifted toward a landscape with more sellers than buyers, leading to longer sales periods averaging between 90 and 120 days. This environment provides more opportunities for negotiation, with realistic price reductions ranging from 4% to 7%. Buyers are increasingly prioritizing the condition of co-ownership properties, focusing on maintenance costs, upcoming required works, and the financial health of the building to inform their decisions.