French town offers houses for just one euro to revive community

Nestled in the Central Region of France, Saint-Amand-Montrond is home to just under 9,500 inhabitants. To address the pressing issue of vacant properties, the local authorities have initiated a scheme to sell homes at minimal prices.

The property on offer for one euro spans 829 square feet. It's a single-story building featuring two bedrooms, a garage that could be transformed into additional living space, and a cosy courtyard. Its location in a serene and attractive neighbourhood adds to its appeal. The municipality owns this house.

Francis Blondieau, the town hall's urban planning officer, shared his ambitious objective of revitalizing the town centre with the Ouest France website.

There are two primary requirements for qualifying as a buyer. Firstly, the purchaser must commit to living in the property for at least ten years, with no option to rent it out.

The town accepts proposals until mid-June, with the buyer's selection slated for September. Prospective buyers need to submit an investment plan, and including a cover letter is recommended. Local officials are keen on finding a candidate genuinely interested in making a life in Saint-Amand-Montrond.

The renovation project is expected to kick off in May of the following year and be completed by July 2028. The opportunity is open to individuals, families, or retirees, whether local or international.

This initiative marks the second instance of Saint-Amand-Montrond offering a house for a nominal fee, attracting over 90 applicants the first time.