The discreet market of private mansions in Cimiez
- Jean-Christophe DIMINO
- 9 hours ago
- 3 min read
Far from the hustle and bustle of the city center, the Cimiez district embodies a unique way of life. It's here, on this hill steeped in history, that one of the most secretive real estate markets on the Côte d'Azur lies hidden: private mansions.
A Belle Époque architectural heritage
Noble lines, elegant volumes, ornate ironwork, and colorful stained-glass windows: the private mansions of Cimiez bear witness to Nice's golden age, at the end of the 19th and beginning of the 20th centuries. At that time, the European aristocracy and bourgeois families built sumptuous residences there, surrounded by palm trees and umbrella pines. The Belle Époque style sometimes rubbed shoulders with neoclassical or Art Deco influences. These residences, often centuries old, offer generous volumes (between 200 and 400 m²), remarkable ceiling heights, and intimate gardens sometimes adorned with swimming pools and verdant gardens.
The most coveted arteries
A few streets alone comprise the heart of this micro-market. The historic and majestic Boulevard de Cimiez is home to former grand hotels transformed into luxury condominiums. Most of the time, it's the alleys or cul-de-sacs perpendicular to the Boulevards de Cimiez or des Arènes that attract buyers. More discreet addresses located on Edouard VII, Prince de Galles, Avenues de Normandie, or Provence are home to properties coveted for their discretion and architectural character.
Rare but revealing sales
The real estate market has always suffered from tensions in this range: very few properties for sale at the same time, and a demanding clientele, both local and international. Foreign clients prefer to acquire a property that does not require major renovations. According to recent data from notaries (Perval and DVF), sales of private mansions in Cimiez fluctuate within a broad range between €6,500 and €12,000/m² depending on the general condition, the address, and the proposed view.
For example, a 245 m² house with a swimming pool, in need of renovation, is for sale at €2,290,000. Located in a residential cul-de-sac, it offers three living levels, a garden of over 800 m², a swimming pool, and an unobstructed view all the way to the sea.
Another example in progress: a 271 m² property with landscaped garden and swimming pool, offered at €2,100,000 by another agency specializing in prestigious residences.
A niche market… for connoisseurs
This ultra-localized segment is aimed at a discerning clientele, often looking for a heritage property to bring up to date. Some see it as a primary family residence, others as an exceptional pied-à-terre or a project to convert it into guest rooms or luxury offices, such as cosmetic surgery clinics.
The scarcity of the offerings and the quality of the buildings make each transaction unique. And while the price per square meter may seem high compared to other areas of Nice, it is justified by the architectural character and exceptional location of these properties.
A discreet luxury, far from bling
In Cimiez, there are no flashy villas. Here, luxury is subdued and discreet, like its private mansions nestled in the greenery. A market in short supply, certainly, but one that continues to attract a clientele of connoisseurs, sensitive to history and authenticity.
Would you like to know more? Contact me directly, Jean-Christophe DIMINO, at 06 16 95 70 83 or by email.
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