The allure of an old building at a reasonable price attracts thousands of people to buy a house in France. However, the romance should always be tested against the financial realities which are not the same as in other countries.
Firstly, it is rarely a good investment as generally, property prices rise only slightly more than inflation.
Secondly, labour costs for the same quality of work are not significantly lower than elsewhere and therefore, if work is required on a building it is very easy to spend more than the building will be worth if it is sold.
FRENCH PROPERTY CONSULTANCY