Presentation of the Rouen branch
In the heart of Normandy's capital, a stone's throw from the Place du Vieux Marché and the Palais de Justice, the Rouen Sotheby's International Realty agency is run by prestige real estate experts Anne-Sophie Vazquez and Cyril Maupas. Operating alongside three other agencies in Normandy, it was created in 2018 as part of the renowned “Sotheby's International Realty” network, owned by Alexander Kraft.
Located in a corner building steeped in history, the Rouen Sotheby's International Realty agency stands out for its exceptional window display, which showcases the Norman art of living, dear to the house of Sotheby's. Its contemporary offices create a Parisian atmosphere, while a more intimate space discreetly welcomes customers.
The agency team is made up of two branch managers and four associates, forming a deliberately small team given the geographical scope of the coastal region. These employees, of various ages and backgrounds, bring a wealth of experience, while sharing a passion for Norman history and architecture. In addition to their in-depth knowledge of the region, they are also fluent in several foreign languages.
In addition to its expertise in long-term rentals, the agency also excels in property transactions and offers concierge services, as well as personalized support, particularly in the supervision of works. The agency's unique portfolio includes traditional hôtels particuliers, bourgeois houses, 18th-century stone and brick properties, as well as equestrian properties and private homes.
The Rouen real estate market
Rouen's real estate market, dynamic and extensive along the banks of the Seine, is divided into two distinct atmospheres: that of the sea and that of the land. Despite the episode of the Covid-19 pandemic, the renowned real estate agency has not been weakened. In fact, the new trend towards telecommuting has led to changes in the customer base, notably with the arrival of young professionals working in Paris, mainly in the financial sector, who have chosen to invest in large-scale properties in Normandy.
Rouen's proximity to Paris makes it a popular destination for Parisian customers. In addition to this national clientele, it also attracts international customers from the USA, the Nordic countries, Switzerland, Belgium and other countries.
The most sought-after areas are concentrated around the Rouen conurbation, as well as in well-known communes such as Mont-Saint-Aignan, Bois-Guillaume and Bihorel, on the heights of Rouen. Le Vaudreuil is also a very attractive area, especially for golf enthusiasts. On the seafront, the Aiguille Creuse and Dieppe are of great interest. Last but not least, the towns of Lyons-la-Forêt and Pacy-sur-Eure are appreciated for their unspoilt country atmosphere.
In the coastal market, customers are often looking for a certain amount of privacy away from the public eye, while still benefiting from the convenience of being within walking distance. Inland, the proximity of the city of Rouen is a valuable asset, as is easy access to the train station or the possibility of shopping in the city center on foot or by public transport. Traditional properties such as Normandy longères remain highly sought-after on the market. Fans of Norman architecture, such as Maison Lebas, Groupe Volkert and Maison Tessel, have created contemporary buildings that incorporate traditional features such as half-timbering and flat-tiled roofs. This approach allows customers to benefit from contemporary comfort, while preserving the ambiance and value of Normandy architecture.
Rouen: history and heritage
Rouen was founded by the Romans and became the second most important city in Gaul. It later became the capital of the Duchy of Normandy in 843, under the reign of the Viking chieftain Rollon. In the Middle Ages, Rouen developed into a powerful trading city, under the influence of William the Conqueror and Philippe Auguste.
Dominating the heart of the historic city, Rouen's Notre-Dame Cathedral is world-renowned as an outstanding example of Gothic art. It inspired Claude Monet, the master of the Impressionists, who dedicated a series of emblematic paintings to it. Rouen bears witness to its rich medieval past, and was the scene of the tragic fate of Joan of Arc, the young shepherdess turned heroine. It was in Rouen that she is said to have been interrogated before being burned at the stake in 1431. The abbey church of Saint-Ouen, another jewel of Gothic art, and the Place du Vieux Marché provide an opportunity to retrace her journey.
Popular with Rouen locals and visitors alike, the Saint-Maclou district, also known as the “quartier des antiquaires”, is a must-see for its lively rue Damiette, restaurants and typical houses. At the heart of this district, the Saint-Maclou church is a true masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Art lovers will also want to visit the remarkable Château du Champ de Bataille and its park, considered one of the most beautiful in Europe. Nicknamed the “Versailles of Normandy”, it was restored by the talented decorator Jacques Garcia, a key contemporary figure.
Famous for its emblematic cow and delicious cheeses, the Normandy region enjoys an excellent reputation for gastronomy. Take a gourmet break at L'Odas, a Michelin-starred gourmet restaurant, to savor the delicious, creative cuisine of chef Olivier Da Silva.
The power of the Sotheby's International Realty network and its unique resources are unrivalled assets for the Rouen agency. Discretion and confidentiality are essential values that set it apart from the competition. Its mission is to preserve the very essence of a place, its charm and significance over time.
