Neighbourhoods in Paris

We sat down with Susie Hollands, founder of VINGT Paris, to get her insight into the chicest corners of the French capital that the well-heeled are heading to. She shared with us her expert knowledge for hunting out your own slice of Parisian paradise.

Could you give an outline of your favourite neighbourhoods in Paris and why? 

I may be biased, but I genuinely believe the best neighbourhood is the one where I live in the 11th. Here, you can still get very interesting properties, such as ex-industrial spaces, but there’s also a lovely family and community vibe, so it’s a great place to bring up children. The other great neighbourhoods are obviously the Left Bank, for the sheer number of world-class restaurants, great shopping and lifestyle enjoyment, or otherwise the Marais is like no other place if you want to hang out with the hip young things in Paris with that international mix of people, fashion and business.

Dealmakers and dealbreakers when investing in a property?

Hold out for the best address and a high floor with open views because there’s nothing worse than a lack of light in a Paris property. Personally speaking, high ceilings do it for me - and I wouldn’t rule out an amazing ground-floor property if it had incredible volumes and a garden.

Advice to those who are about to move to Paris?

Work with one company who will handle all your relocation needs – from schools and removals to setting up banking – not only renting property. Have a retained personal assistant because you’re going to need one for three months! Especially do not expect your wife or husband to handle this, if you are moving here for work, if you want to keep your marriage intact. It’s a professional’s job! It is not easy to get things done here and it can be a shock to the system. We can provide all these things at VINGT Paris.

For more information, go to www.vingtparis.com

If you’re looking to secure a mortgage in France, contact us on +44(0)203 758 9393 or go to www.enness.co.uk