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In some regions where residents have difficulty finding affordable housing, municipalities have the right to increase the tax on second homes. 1,140 cities are concerned, but this possibility should be open to 4,000 more common.
The village of Mouans-Sartoux (Alpes-Maritimes) is very popular. 10% of the dwellings are second homes. For four years, their owners pay a surcharge of 60%. The measure divides the inhabitants. “When you can have a second home, you can afford it”thinks a woman. “I think of the people who have it, I think it’s still a lot”says another. Today, 1,140 cities can apply this surcharge. From next year, up to 5,000 municipalities would be affected.
To be included, there are several criteria: the percentage of second homes in the municipality, the lack of available housing and their price. Objective : reinvest this money in social or new housing for residents. In Mouans-Sartoux, the measure makes it possible to recover 500,000 euros to preserve public services in particular. In the town of Roquebrune-Cap-Martin (Alpes-Maritimes)the tax will go from 40% to 60% which from difficult to pass to some owners of secondary residences.