Interview

An interview with Erica Berman, one of our preferred partners, owner and manager of Haven in Paris.

Where do you come from?

Lexington, Massachusetts, USA.

Why did you choose to move to Paris?

I came here to perfect my French, sixteen years ago after having finished my university degree.

How did you get into property rentals?

It all began in 1994 when I bought an adorable 30m² studio in Montmartre with my French boyfriend. The flat, located in a charming old building behind the Place du Tertre and Sacre Coeur, required a complete renovation and rehabilitation. Not long after, my parents, 4 star hotel aficionados, vacationed for a week in my boyfriend’s penthouse apartment in Montmartre. They loved this fresh and, at the time, unconventional way to travel, and the idea emerged to rent our newly refitted studio on a weekly basis to tourists.

And how long has Haven in Paris established?

4 years ago I established Haven in Paris to give tourists an authentic but luxurious Parisian experience.

What is it about this business that makes you happy?

The variety. No day is ever the same. Meeting new people, seeing new properties, giving tourists an unforgettable experience and finding amazing service providers for my clients to make their stay in Paris perfect!

Can you tell us a little bit about the challenges you have faced establishing and running this organization as well as working with luxurious properties?

There are always difficult periods, and any company, big or small, is affected by the prevailing political and economic conditions. Recently, the weak rate of the Dollar against the Euro, high oil prices, the reluctance of some Americans to travel overseas and the boycotting of French goods by Americans have all affected our business. In terms of the properties it is always a challenge convincing the owners of what they need to do to ensure their flat is of a luxury standard so it will rent successfully to tourists. With over 14 years of experience I know what it takes, but it requires some investment and not everyone is ready to spend what is necessary in order to guarantee satisfying returns.

Can you tell us, from your experience, what sets apart a luxury apartment?

The key to a luxury apartment is in the details; a building with an elevator, king-size beds, a large bath & separate rain shower, high quality furniture, Air Conditioning, thick white towels and high quality sheets, a balcony and panoramic views, a flat-screen TV, a computer and high-speed Internet access, Wi-Fi, high quality appliances and fittings (from premium brands such as Miele, Bose and Apple).

How big should an apartment be, in order to be spacious and comfortable?

It depends on the number of bedrooms; a one bedroom apartment should be about 55 m2, with 2 bedrooms about 75m2 and with 3 bedrooms at least 100m2 or more.

Why should people invest in real estate in here?

Paris is a sure thing; Paris will always be Paris. It has an allure and an enduring charm that will keep visitors coming back and will always attract new ones. Prices remain lower compared to other European capitals and other comparable cities, and the physical restraints on the size of the city (it cannot be expanded beyond the ‘périphérique’ ring road) and its small size (7 times smaller than London) make prices more robust.

Tell us about the new MONCEAU apartment in 8th arrondissement. Has it been a popular addition and what feedback have you received on it?

This flat is brand new and quite luxurious. Feedback has been very positive. The luxury touches like the Mac computer, iPod docking station, king bed, luxurious linens and towels have not gone unnoticed.

What gives it its charm and what makes it competitive?

It is large, newly renovated to a very high standard with all of the amenities tourists are looking for. As it is a bit off the main tourist path, we are able to offer it at a more competitive price than the equivalent apartment in areas like St Germain or the Marais. You are getting more for your money here whilst also living in a real French neighborhood. I highly recommend it.

How would you describe its interior design?

Classic Parisian, yet clean and uncluttered, all of the modern amenities with a sprinkle of antiques.

Which arrondissements do your clientele prefer?

Our clients generally prefer to be in the centre of Paris, predominantly in the 3rd to 7th arrondissements, but also right in the heart of Paris in the 1st and 2nd.

What countries do you clients generally come from?

The majority of our clients come from the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the UK.

What is the average length of stay?

Most of our clients rent for a week or two.

What is the most convenient means of transport to get around in Paris?

Paris is an easily negotiated city. The Metro and buses are very convenient and efficient, Taxis are reasonably priced for a capital city and in fact it’s possible and practical to get around Paris on foot or by bike.

How do you get around?

I tend to walk and take the metro. Bike riding is a bit too dangerous for me, but it is very convenient. Cars are a no-no. No parking places, too much stress. Taxis are easy and convenient for those times when a car is necessary. The bus is also great as you can see the sights.

Which areas do you love and why?

I love the more undiscovered neighborhoods, the ones that feel more authentic and not touristy, such as Montmartre (in the 18th arrondissement), Batignolles (17th), Menilmontant (20th) and Belleville (covering parts of the 10th, 11th, 19th and 20th).

Can you share a funny experience with us?

There have been many interesting stories since Haven in Paris began, from a client who was locked out and ended up married to the friend who came with us to open the door, to another that I hit it off with and invited to dinner and who ended up marrying a good friend of mine. One day last year when I was here in Paris I went to check out the studio I own on the day that the former clients left. After ascertaining their check out time, I showed up a short while after. They ended up leaving later them planned and our paths crossed. It was a couple from the West Coast. It turned out that I had waitressed with the woman in Boston on Newbury Street right after college, before coming to France (17 years ago now!). As she is now married and living in California, I would never have known it was her! Luckily she recognized me.

I often have funny emails, but the best I have received in recent memory was the following: "My wife and I are newly married and are hoping for a romantic time in Paris to begin making our first child. We are both social workers which in American, which does not make us rich and we are hoping for an affordable and beautiful apartment like your Vieux Colombier apartment." Unfortunately it was unavailable so we will never know the outcome of their Paris adventure!

What additional services does Haven in Paris provide?

All concierge services imaginable can be organized, from car services, to cooking classes and massages in the client’s apartments.

What are your occupancy rates?

In general, over 80%.

What can a client who rents their apartment through Haven in Paris expect?

We offer a personalized service, attention to detail, a ready ear, expert advice, high quality clientele and their apartment well cared for and maintained while at the same time giving them a healthy return on their investment.

 

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