Kees de Jager,  Thursday, 1 August 2024

 

Owning a castle in France is a dream for many, but it also comes with significant costs. It is crucial to have a clear understanding of the various expenses involved in maintaining a castle. Here is an overview of the main expenditures you can expect.

Annual Maintenance Costs

The annual maintenance costs of a castle can range between 1% and 1.5% of the castle's value. For a castle worth €1 million, this means between €10,000 and €15,000 per year. These costs include:

Garden maintenance: Maintaining the gardens and parks around the castle can be substantial, especially if there are extensive grounds with landscaping.

Heating and utilities: Castles often have large spaces that need to be heated in the winter, leading to high energy costs. Additionally, there are costs for water, electricity, and other utilities.

Minor repairs and regular maintenance: This includes painting, roof repairs, plumbing work, and maintaining historical elements such as windows, doors, and floors.

Restoration Costs

In addition to regular maintenance, there are also periodic restoration costs. These can vary greatly depending on the scope and nature of the restorations, but some common projects include:

Roof renovation: Renewing or repairing a castle roof can cost thousands to tens of thousands of euros, depending on the scope and materials used.

Structural improvements: Strengthening or restoring the castle structure, such as foundations, walls, and towers, can be significant expenses.

Historical restorations: Restoring historical features, such as murals, stained glass windows, and antique floors, can be costly due to the specialized expertise required.

Staff Costs

If you do not live permanently in the castle or if the castle is large, it may be necessary to hire staff. This can range from a part-time gardener to a full-time caretaker. Some staff costs to consider are:

Caretaker: A full-time caretaker can cost between €30,000 and €50,000 per year, depending on responsibilities and location.

Gardener: A gardener can cost between €15 and €25 per hour, depending on the region and experience.

Household staff: If needed, cleaning and household staff costs can vary from €10 to €20 per hour.

Taxes and Insurance

There are also annual tax and insurance costs:

Property tax: This can vary depending on the size, location, and historical value of the castle.

Insurance: Insuring a castle can be more expensive than a regular house due to higher replacement costs and historical value. Insurance costs can range from several hundred to thousands of euros per year.

Financial Support and Subsidies

Fortunately, there are subsidies and tax benefits available for owners of historical buildings. It is possible to deduct restoration costs from your total income, sometimes for up to six years. Additionally, the French government offers subsidies that can cover 20% to 40% of restoration costs, although obtaining these subsidies can be complex and often requires that the castle (or part of it) be opened to the public.

Conclusion

Owning a castle in France is a unique and enchanting experience, but it is important to be realistic about the costs. A detailed overview of expenses and a solid financial plan are essential to ensure that you can enjoy your dream castle without unexpected financial surprises. With the right preparation and resources, living like a castle owner can be a rewarding and unforgettable experience.





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