A Journey to the Top: The Characteristics of Penthouses

Located on the top floor of a building, penthouses embody the pinnacle of high-end urban living. Their location, views, amenities, and exclusivity make them highly sought-after properties. In cities like Paris, Nice, Cannes, and Lyon, demand for these exceptional spaces is strong.

French market: key cities & indicative prices

To analyze the opportunities, here is an overview of the French cities where luxury penthouses are most sought after, along with approximate price ranges.

• Paris (7th, 8th, and 16th arrondissements) : The Parisian market remains the benchmark for urban luxury. Prices can range from €15,000/m² to over €30,000/m² in the most prestigious addresses. For a penthouse of approximately 250 m² with an iconic view, it is not uncommon for a transaction to exceed €18 million.
• French Riviera (Cannes, Nice, Antibes) : Penthouses with sea views and panoramic terraces are highly sought after. In Cannes, some properties are listed between €12,000 and €25,000 per square meter, depending on the view and level of luxury. For example, a luxury penthouse in Cannes (447 square meters) is listed at over €32 million, according to a specialized website.
• Lyon : An emerging player in the luxury market, this city offers an interesting mix of tradition and modernity. In sought-after areas like the Presqu'île or Croix-Rousse, high-end properties can be found for between €6,000 and €12,000/m².
• Other regional cities : Some smaller but high-end markets (e.g., seaside towns, seaside resorts) have prices between €6,000 and €12,000/m² for very high-end properties.

These price ranges show that location, view (sea or monument), floor and terrace quickly increase the values.

1. Exceptional Location

A penthouse is distinguished first and foremost by its prime location and unique panoramic views. An unobstructed view of the sea, the city, or a major landmark is a key factor in increasing its value. In Paris, a penthouse with a view of the Eiffel Tower or the rooftops of Montmartre is among the most sought-after. This "view" adds an aura of exclusivity that is highly desirable.

2. Private Outdoor Spaces

A terrace, or even a rooftop terrace, is a must. It allows you to live "outdoors" while remaining in the city and often offers exceptional panoramic views. On the French Riviera, a southwest-facing terrace with a sea view significantly increases prices.

3. Spacious Overall Area

Penthouses frequently exceed the standards of the traditional apartment. Generous living room, multiple bedrooms, sometimes dedicated spaces (cinema, gym): these surfaces, much larger than average, appeal to families or buyers looking for a prestigious pied-à-terre.

4. Luxury Finishes

Above the top floor, the amenities must match. High-end materials, top-of-the-range fitted kitchens, spa bathrooms, floor-to-ceiling windows, home automation… all contribute to the added value. High-end buyers expect a "complete package" and are no longer satisfied with just a simple penthouse apartment.

5. Privacy and Security

A penthouse often offers a rare tranquility in an urban setting: few neighbors above, sometimes private access, and enhanced security. These features are particularly valued by international or wealthy buyers.

6. Luxury Equipment

Private pool or jacuzzi, advanced home automation, direct elevator access, furnished rooftop terrace… penthouses on the French Riviera or in Paris now include these "extras." This premium offering justifies the exorbitant prices mentioned above.

7. Urban Ambiance with Home Comfort

Living in a penthouse means combining urban life (Michelin-starred restaurants, luxury boutiques, transportation) with a feeling of spaciousness and seclusion. The lifestyle it provides is a major selling point for premium buyers.

8. Private Access and Amenities

Some buildings offer a private elevator leading directly to the residence. Home automation, now very common, allows for remote control of lighting, heating, and security: a must for international clients and investors looking for a turnkey solution.

9. Customization Options

Penthouses are often sold "unfinished" or partially finished, allowing for complete customization according to tastes, style, and materials. This degree of freedom appeals to clients willing to invest in a unique property.

10. Long-Term Investment

Penthouses, rare in prime urban locations, offer significant potential for appreciation. With strong demand for exceptional properties (from wealthy buyers, international investors, and high-end rentals), they are among the most robust real estate assets on the market. The data cited above illustrates this potential.

What do professionals and sellers need to know?

For a real estate agency, an agent, or a seller-owner, understanding what makes a penthouse "exceptional" is essential:

• Highlight the location / panoramic view / high floor.
• Highlight outdoor spaces (terrace, roof terrace) in visuals and descriptions.
• Highlight the high-end amenities, the "new as tomorrow" maintenance and the building services (concierge, security, fitness, swimming pool).
• Adjust the valuation to the scarcity of the property and to international demand (higher prices in Paris or the French Riviera).

For the buyer or investor looking for a penthouse

As a buyer or investor, here are some practical tips:

1. Define your criteria precisely: floor, view, terrace, location, size, amenities.
2. Check the exposure and quality of the views (sea, city, monuments). A sea or monument view often commands a premium in value.
3. Analyze condominium fees, maintenance of common areas and equipment (elevator, roof terrace, security). These elements impact the cost of ownership.
4. Study the resale or rental potential (in Paris or the French Riviera, the demand for high-end rentals is strong).
5. Ensure that the property's intended use meets your needs (family home, secondary residence, rental investment). In some cities, high-end properties can also serve as international bases.

In summary

Luxury penthouses are not simply "expensive" apartments. They embody a lifestyle, an address, a privilege. For professionals in the luxury real estate market, they constitute a distinct category, requiring tailored communication, positioning, and marketing strategies. For buyers or investors, they represent a unique opportunity: combining an exceptional location, absolute comfort, and significant investment potential.

If you are a professional wishing to publish a high-end property, our Charming Properties is at your disposal to enhance your listings to a demanding clientele.