My Dream Home: interview with an agent in Tarn

Laura Croxford of Beaux Villages explains why this renovated stone house in Tarn, on the market for €262,500, easily wins her vote

Why does this property stand out for you personally?

This is a stunning renovation which matches the modern with the old in a convenient location. I love the luminosity of the house and its far-reaching country views.

Why is it a great buy?

There is absolutely no work needed! The house is very well insulated, making it easy to heat in the winter and keep cool in the summer. The boiler is practically new but rarely needs to be used as the woodburner in the lounge heats the whole house.

The house has recent double-glazing, the roof is new and the fosse septique conforms to standards. What’s more, there is an old stone ruin that could be rebuilt to provide a gîte or just further living space.

What’s the wow factor?

Personally I love the flow of the ground floor. Originally three houses, it has been cleverly made into one with an open-plan ground floor incorporating kitchen/diner and lounge. You first walk into the vast fully fitted kitchen with central island and breakfast bar, and to the left is the dining area. The whole room (which measures 53.6m²) is tastefully tiled and decorated.

You then step down into the cosy lounge – which could easily be separated by the addition of a door, if so desired – with its solid oak floor. To the other side of the kitchen is a toilet and utility room. The property is well designed and all interior work has been beautifully executed.

Who would it suit?

The house would suit a young family and is great for full-time living, but it would be equally ideal as a holiday home, with a good-sized garden that is easily manageable.

What is your favourite room or feature?

My favourite room is the kitchen/diner. Organised in such a way that you can interact with family or guests while preparing a meal, this room is immensely light and spacious – imagine standing at the sink gazing at the superb countryside view (although a dishwasher is provided, of course!).

What’s the immediate location like?

In the midst of the country with a château as a neighbour, the area is tranquil and offers many walking and bridle paths as well as being within easy reach of the River Viaur on the border with Aveyron. The local area is a traditional farming community with the nearest shops and schools just a couple of kilometres away.

What’s the appeal of the wider area?

Nearby Albi is the beautiful capital of Tarn, with a UNESCO classification, imposing medieval brick cathedral and famous Toulouse-Lautrec museum. Just west of Albi is Gaillac, an important winemaking centre, while Cordes-sur-Ciel is a picturesque small town, perched precariously on a hill above two valleys and worthy of many photos.

How easy is it to get to?

The area is very well connected. In terms of airports, you’re spoilt for choice here: Rodez airport is at 30km and Toulouse at 120km, and there are good road links between the two. The property is also two minutes’ drive from the main road linking Rodez and Albi and, unusually for rural France, there is a train station within five minutes’ drive.