French property seekers are more likely to be offered locally-themed incentives to buy than the normal extras, it has been stated.

In a feature on the trend, the Independent noted that there has been a shift away from basing the appeal of overseas property on the presence of facilities such as tennis courts or golf courses.

As an alternative, the paper said, investors are including more culturally relevant extras for buyers.

It gave the example of French property firm Garrigae, which offers cookery and archery lessons.

"All the activities in our resorts have been selected for their authenticity, allowing for the discovery of local traditions," commented the company’s owner Cecile Viennet.

Cultural themes may be of particular interest to those investing in the Marseille-Provence area.

This region has been chosen to share the title of European Capital of Culture in 2013, something that may help develop more links between people buying in the area and its art and traditions.

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