Interview

An Interview with one of our 15 Property Search Experts specializing in the center of Paris: Stephane Levaux

Where are you from?

I'm originally from Liege, Belgium. I took advantage of the opportunity to travel whenever possible during my studies, and spent two years here in Paris at Sciences Po. It was during that time that I really fell in love with Paris, and I'm still here!

How long have you been in Paris?

I've been here for a little more than 8 years already! In fact, I decided last week to apply for French citizenship because of that, and it looks like I will be approved!

How did you become a property search expert?

By sheer chance! I was offered a job as a real estate agent in Vincennes two weeks after I purchased my first apartment, and I continued there for two years. I then worked as a management consultant, working with trainees in human resources, and finally decided I was ready for a new challenge in my life.

What arrondissements do you specialize in?

I don't really claim to be an expert in one specific area, but I try to follow the Parisian market as a whole rather closely: Of course, that's not to say I don't have favorites! I really enjoy working in the Marais (3rd mainly) and the entire 6th arrondissement. One of the great charms of Paris is that each neighborhood has a distinctly unique identity.

What is your favorite arrondissement and why?

I'd have to say the third. I love the village-like atmosphere, and it's very central! The area is quite peaceful and I'm hoping to move there soon myself!

Is there a search or type of apartment that come up regularly?

Our customers don't easily fit in « categories, » as we encounter such a varied range of requests from all of our clients. I really love that aspect of working with Flat Hunter.

What do you like about your job?

It's an incredibly interesting endeavour to understand the vision and desire of each individual client. Finding the perfect home for someone is never an easy task, but I love the look in someone's eyes when we've finally struck gold. That to me is such a reward for my work.

How do you get around Paris (metro, scooter, etc.)?

I use the Velib bicycles very frequently. The rental scheme organized by the Mayor of Paris is such a practical and wonderful way to explore the city! I walk quite a lot as well, and take public transport in bad weather.

Why do you think people should invest in Paris?

Of course no one can predict the future, but I personally don't think the local real estate market is going to be negatively affected by any of the economic hardships. Solely based on the small number of housing units available, I believe that the Parisian market will be stable for quite a long time.

What makes Flat Hunter good/why do you work for Flat Hunter?

Flat Hunter is very efficient, and we're given the opportunity to truly connect with our customers. The emphasis on great working relationships and the lack of extreme pressure to sell apartments is such a breath of fresh air, in stark contrast to most of the real estate world.

Do you have any funny stories/anecdotes to share since you have been a search expert?

There are truly so many funny things I've encountered in my work, I can't imagine where I'd begin! I've just recently started a new project with a journalist, and will be writing a book on the evolution of Paris as observed through the real estate prism. I am certain that there will be quite a few amusing stories in the book.

What are the funniest/strangest things you have seen on the job?

The strangest thing I encounter on my job is the prices that some horrible apartments are set at! I also find the flowery speech that agents use in an attempt to describe defects positively to be really bizarre. The funniest memories are those of certain negotiations, and the ridiculous things that some sellers argue about.
I remember one woman who sold an apartment to an English buyer. She did not live in Paris and had not seen her apartment for more than 8 years so she did not realize the state it was in. I had to work very hard to convince her that it needed a lot of work so that our client could receive a good price.

What tips do you want to share with future buyers?
 

• Try to define your search criteria well, and truly permeate the different areas of Paris. With such a diverse number of neighborhoods to choose from, it's definitely worth the effort to explore the different neighborhoods and get a feel for the identity of each one.
• Keep a long term perspective in focus, and purchase property with factors that ensure future value. Buying in quality neighborhoods and avoiding apartments with major defects are two great things to keep in mind.
• Remember to keep the final goal in mind when viewing properties, whether you're searching for a new home or a long term investment.
   

What do you like to do when you are not working?

I still love to travel and I try to make time to read whenever possible. I have lived in and travelled a lot in the Middle-East (Israel-Palestine, Lebanon, Syria and Yemen). I visit Italy a lot as my girlfriend comes from Milan and I also like New York and San Francisco, where my sister lives.

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