Mayenne Property Insight

Mayenne is a French town housing about 14,700 inhabitants and located in the north of the eponymous department (i.e. Mayenne) and in the Pays de la Loire region. The commune is swimming in the Mayenne River. As you can notice, the town has the same name than the department and than the river (this is the only one in France). It is characterized by an important fluctuation of hills, in the centre of which the river constitutes a separation point between the so-called two Mayenne (tow banks). The town is built on an old volcano whose crater is ‘flooded’ by the river.

Overview

Mayenne’s town centre is stretched along both banks of the river, which make the town a dynamic zone: the river is surrounded with plenty of shops. Walking on the quays is thus very pleasant and let you discover all the charms of Mayenne. Before, the harbour had an economic function, but nowadays, the watercourse plays a tourism role: visitors and locals can hire a boat and admire the wonderful scenery.

Mayenne is renowned for its castle but also for the cider produced in its surroundings. The area is appreciated by the Brits who have been settling there for years. The town is home to two main religious monuments both located on one bank of the river. Notre-Dame basilica was built in 1100 (located on the touristy bank) and Saint-Martin church has a Romanesque style (located on the other bank, more appreciated by the local).

Mayenne Immobilier & Property Market Trends

Mayenne is a great place if you are looking for bargains. Indeed, many properties in need of restoration are on the market for next to nothing! Thus, in 2009 you can find a house to renovate for about €25,000, a great value! This is the perfect investment if you are a handyman willing to spend time on your dream house. The results may be stunning and you will be proud of your achievement.

For those who just want to put their luggage in the house, very cheap properties are also on offer. You can find houses with a land for less than €60,000! Other larger charming houses made of stone should cost between €180,000 and €200,000. With over 50% of tenants in the area, Mayenne is also a great location for buy-to-let investments as it offers excellent rental opportunities.

To get updated info about property prices in Mayenne, please browse our French Property Market Reports published in the News Section every month.

3 Reasons to Buy a Property in Mayenne

• Architectural heritage: Mayenne’s medieval castle is a must-visit attraction. Carolingian vestiges of the 9th century are to be discovered in the 11th century stronghold. Five towers, a chapel and vaulted rooms inside are also worth seeing. The castle was used as a jail during the 19th century. Since June 2008, the town has opened a museum telling the story of this touristy place.

• Economy: Mayenne is one of the main settlement towns of the British pharmaceutical company GSK. The latter constitutes one of the principal employment centres in the area, with hundreds of jobs allocated. The Commune is situated at a strategic location for those who want to set up a business: indeed, Mayenne is close to Brittany and Normandy, which are two mains regions of the north west of France. Furthermore, it is only 2 ½ hrs from Paris, which make it easily reachable from any European and international countries.

• Peaceful area: Mayenne is a very attractive place for its quality of life (unspoilt landscapes, river, numerous open spaces and touristy attractions) and quietness. Hiring a boat is a great way to explore the area and admire the countryside. Located in the heart of three famous regions (Pays de la Loire, Brittany and Normandy), the town has so much to offer. This is an idyll for nature lovers who will feel in harmony with earth!

Property Styles and Architecture in Mayenne

Stone houses: of great dimension, these charming properties are often located in quiet places. They offer a beautiful view over the countryside and come with a land planted with trees, outbuildings, courtyard, terrace, fireplace and sometimes a pond. Inside, beams and stones are exposed, a major asset for rustic-property lovers. Outside, the sloping roof is constructed of slate tiles and stones are also exposed. Stone houses may be cottages, detached houses, town houses or farmhouses.

Click here for more info about the Architecture in Pays de la Loire.