This episode dives deep into a dream many Francophiles share: owning a piece of Paris without the full-time commitment or price tag. In this episode, host Annie Sargent sits down with Marie Tartar, a fractional apartment owner in the Marais, to break down everything you need to know about this smart alternative to traditional real estate. If you've ever wondered how to enjoy Paris like a local—with your own keys, favorite café, and neighborhood routines—this conversation is packed with practical insights.

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Marie shares her firsthand experience owning a share of a one-bedroom apartment in the heart of the Marais. She explains how fractional ownership works: instead of buying an entire property, you purchase a share with a small group of owners, typically 12 to 13 people. Each owner gets four weeks a year—two fixed and two floating—so you always know when your next Parisian getaway is on the calendar. Unlike timeshares, you're a deeded owner, which means you can sell your share, pass it on, or even trade weeks with other owners. Annie and Marie discuss the costs, which range from €100,000 to €800,000 depending on the size and location, plus annual dues that cover maintenance, housekeeping, and property management. For Marie, it's been a game-changer, offering the freedom of a second home without the hassle of upkeep or dealing with a French syndic.

The conversation covers the perks of fractional ownership, like having a concierge on call for anything from a broken kettle to restaurant recommendations. Marie's apartment comes with a storage bin in the basement for personal items, and a WhatsApp group keeps owners connected for sharing tips on local exhibitions and hidden gems. Annie highlights the importance of choosing a well-managed property, where a strong developer handles conflicts and logistics, so you can focus on enjoying your stay. They also talk about the lifestyle—imagine spending your days exploring the Marais, visiting quirky museums like the Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature, and strolling to the Left Bank for movies and meals.

If you love Paris but don't want the responsibility of full ownership, fractional apartments offer a flexible, lower-stress way to have a pied-à-terre in the city. Marie and Annie discuss the best neighborhoods for fractional ownership, how to find opportunities, and what to watch out for when reviewing contracts. Whether you're a frequent visitor or just dreaming of longer stays, this episode reveals how fractional ownership can make Paris feel like home.

Ready to turn your Parisian dreams into reality? Hit subscribe to Join Us in France for more insider tips, hidden gems, and stories that bring France to life. Perfect for travelers, Francophiles, and anyone curious about owning a slice of Paris!

Table of Contents for this Episode

• Today on the podcast: Fractional Ownership in Paris
• Thank you podcast supporters
• Magazine segment: OrlyBus is no more and the Eiffel Tower and women scientists
• Introduction to Fractional Ownership in Paris
• Understanding Fractional Ownership vs. Timeshares
• How Fractional Ownership Works
• Personal Experiences with Fractional Ownership
• Managing and Using Fractional Ownership
• Financial Aspects of Fractional Ownership
• Developer and Management Insights
• Practical Considerations and Tips
• Communication with fellow owners
• Exploring the Eiffel Tower Area
• Daily Life in Paris: Movies, Museums, and Meals
• Favorite things to do while in Paris
• Hidden Gems of the Marais
• Photography and Exhibits in Paris
• Dining and Cooking in Paris
• Travel Tips and Jet Lag Solutions
• Paris "Gotchas"
• The Benefits of Fractional Ownership
• Concluding Thoughts and Farewells
• Thank you, patrons
• Private Day Trips with Annie
• Charles de Gaulle AIrport Transfers
• RER B Safety Note
• Eiffel Tower Honors Women Scientists
• Next week on the podcast
• Copyright

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