With the publication last Friday of the Amended Finance Law (Loi de Finance Rectificative 2012), the French government instituted an “extraordinary wealth contribution” retroactively effective as of January 1, 2012.

Ernst & Young released a study this month surveying a significant grouping of active French real estate investors.  According to the report, 77% of investors surveyed believe that France will be an attractive investment market in 2012.

2011 has undoubtedly been a turbulent year in the financial markets which have had an impact on many people’s decisions as to whether or not they will proceed with their dream purchase in France.

Normally, property in France doesn’t come cheap. But thanks to judicial reforms, there are a number of small-town courthouses priced to sell.