Dream homes during the lockdown and beyond | Athena Advisers

Dream homes during the lockdown and beyond

With many of us spending more time at home than ever before, the lockdown has triggered a shift in what homebuyers want in a property. Here’s our insight on the subject.

The lockdown has changed our perception when it comes to buying a house and the consequences of the pandemic will remain present in our spirits in the future. In the event of another lockdown, there are a couple of features that will now be considered a necessity for future property purchases. Here’s our insight on the subject.

 

Second homes become primary homes

Across our destinations, we’ve seen second homes become the primary home as individuals are choosing to spend their time during isolation and after in their favourite cities, resorts or countryside. According to a recent Seloger study, 25% of respondents want to purchase in a small city of fewer than 20,000 inhabitants, but without compromising their comfort at home.

Comfort at the heart of buyers’ needs

Space will be the keyword for a home search in the future. According to Seloger, 47% of respondents were looking for a house. More than space, certain features in a house will be extremely sought-after when buying a property: a study to be able to work from home and a gym to be able to exercise without leaving the house will become more important.

Exterior space: a necessity in a post-lockdown environment

Large terraces and balconies which can fit tables and chairs will be an excellent feature for future buyers. A garden will be even more sought-after to be able to enjoy some fresh air without having to leave the house. In cities like Lisbon or Paris, ground floor apartments that have sometimes been overlooked due to security concerns, now command a premium as they can have exterior space. Mysweetimmo even estimates an increase of 8.8% in prices for properties with exterior space.

Dream property for sale in the Swiss Alps

Probably one of our most impressive projects throughout all our destinations, Six Senses Crans-Montana presents international buyers with a unique opportunity to own a stunning ski residence complemented by Six Senses’ signature five-star services and facilities in a remarkable location. In the French-speaking canton of Valais, a true dual-season resort, this ski-in ski-out project boasts a range of world-class services and facilities provided by the world-famous Six senses brand including an outdoor pool with a cinema, a fitness suite with wellness experts, two restaurants with private chef services and 2,000 sqm spa with a hammam, a selection of saunas, an indoor pool and treatment rooms.

All of the properties benefit from south-east or south-west-facing aspects, large bay windows and terraces which offer stunning views over the village and Crans-Montana’s iconic mountainscape.

Dream property for sale in the French Riviera

In the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, a few metres from the idyllic beaches of Sainte-Maxime, this collection of prestigious villas have recently been delivered. With just 15,000 inhabitants, this authentic fishing village has it all. In collaboration with one of the best landscapers in the world, these properties fit perfectly into the Mediterranean landscape of the village, bringing a touch of modernity. 

The large glass facades not only ensures that the interiors are bathed in light but offers breathtaking views over the Gulf of Saint-Tropez. Each property has a large south-facing terrace, a private swimming pool, an outdoor lounge and a parking space. All bedrooms are en-suite and some even have a private balcony.

Dream property for sale in Paris

In the 4th arrondissement of Paris in the sought-after Marais, this new renovation project has an incredible charm and history. The riverside 17th-century hôtel particulier was once the residence of King Charles V. Bespoke interiors and customisable finishes will be available on-demand as the apartment comes as a shell. The exterior space of the apartments, coupled with large windows allows inhabitants to enjoy views over the Seine.

An interior courtyard with communal gardens will bring a sense of intimacy while being in the very centre of the capital city. The majestic entrance hall and private terrace give the property a unique and grand feel.

Dream property for sale in Lisbon

All you need in a capital city such as Lisbon is a private rooftop terrace with a private pool and exceptional views on the Tagus river. Two apartments in this project have both. In one of the most exclusive areas of Lisbon, the brand new development is located between two palaces. These modern buildings with a tiled facade were conceived in a sustainable way with many features such as harvested rainwater for garden watering and central water heating using solar energy.

Along with many wonderful communal spaces, like the garden, the swimming pool and the fitness room, the development will include lifts, video surveillance and a concierge to ensure maximum security and comfort.