In a global context marked by economic and geopolitical turbulence, prestige real estate is proving more than ever a safe haven for wealthy investors. According to the BARNES Global Property Handbook 2025, Ultra High Net Worth Individuals (UHNWIs) have increased the share of real estate in their portfolios from 15% in 2022 to 19% in 2024, reflecting their growing appetite for tangible, sustainable assets. Whether for a primary residence in a leading capital city or a second home by the sea or in the countryside, stone retains its status as a safe, long-lasting investment.
U.S. investors flock to Europe
Character properties in France are increasingly appealing to foreign investors, particularly Americans. Donald Trump's re-election in November 2024 has intensified interest in transatlantic investment, strengthening the appeal of the Old Continent. Prestigious luxury real estate marketplace JamesEdition has observed a significant increase in traffic on its platform for property searches from the USA to European countries such as Italy, Greece, France, Spain and Portugal. These destinations are among the preferred choices for expatriates wishing to acquire a second home, with a notable rise in interest, including a 50% increase for France. This trend is set to continue, consolidating the attractiveness of high-end real estate in France.
Investing in a château in France: a strategic and tax-efficient choice
"We're witnessing a silent revolution, a craze for movable and immovable property with a past and a soul. Our customers are looking for properties that have been renovated or transformed to maximize their impact while respecting the history of the site," observes Thibault de Saint Vincent, President of Barnes.
This dynamic is part of an underlying trend: a customer base in search of authenticity. At Prosper, we are fully committed to this market evolution. Our residences are entirely restored by specialized architects, guaranteeing a renovation that respects the soul of the place while meeting modern comfort requirements. Each Prosper château is furnished with care, thanks to a selection of exceptional pieces from renowned auction houses, giving each interior a unique signature.
Beyond the prestigious, turnkey living environment, our properties benefit from year-round stewardship, ensuring purchasers total peace of mind. And because a historic heritage is best preserved over the long term, we support our customers long after the purchase, ensuring the conservation and enhancement of their property.
Thanks to the Monuments Historiques scheme, investing in a château also offers major tax advantages. This scheme allows buyers to deduct certain restoration costs from their taxable income, thus optimizing their investment. By choosing Prosper, our customers combine pleasure, transmission and profitability, while contributing to the preservation of a unique heritage.
-> Read our article on the Monuments Historiques Tax Scheme
What's the outlook for the real estate market in 2026?
Overall, the outlook for the real estate market between now and 2026 remains mixed. In the resale market, lower interest rates on mortgages could give buyers back their purchasing power. An impact on prices and transaction volumes is expected as early as 2025, provided that economic stabilization continues. However, political instability and pressure on long-term interest rates could dampen this momentum and delay public support measures for housing. In this uncertain environment, prestige real estate remains a safe haven. By offering turnkey châteaux that combine historic charm with asset optimization, Prosper has established itself as a benchmark for investors in search of meaning and security.
