Douglas Elliman Expands Overseas into Luxury French Real Estate

Douglas Elliman Takes a Bold Step into European Luxury Real Estate

Douglas Elliman, one of the top luxury real estate firms in the United States, has officially embarked on its international journey by announcing new offices across France and Monaco. This ambitious expansion includes 14 offices and more than two dozen agents based in beautiful regions such as Bordeaux, the French Riviera, and Monaco. The leadership team comprises seasoned professionals—Philippe Curutchet, Fredrik Lilloe, and Edward de Mallet Morgan—each bringing extensive experience and a strong track record in luxury real estate to this global initiative.

Responding to Growing Demand for French Properties

With a notable increase in American tourists in France—who outnumbered British and German visitors as of 2024—the demand for high-end real estate among U.S. buyers has surged. Douglas Elliman's move is strategically timed to meet this rising interest, as properties priced over $5.85 million represented 30% of total transactions on the French Riviera in 2024, generating a staggering $10.5 billion in sales. Michael S. Liebowitz, the President and CEO of Douglas Elliman Inc., remarked, "Our clients increasingly view real estate as a global portfolio, and this collaboration enables us to provide seamless service across continents..." This expansion aligns with the growing trend of integrating global investments into local portfolios.

Meet the New Leaders of Douglas Elliman's European Presence

The seasoned partnership leading this venture is notable. Philippe Curutchet, who founded the luxury property holding company Globality, has cultivated extensive connections in prestigious locations including Paris and Saint-Barthélemy. Fredrik Lilloe, with a remarkable background in the French Riviera market, boasts over $2 billion in transactions, including some of the Mediterranean's most exclusive properties. Meanwhile, Edward de Mallet Morgan brings his two decades of ultra-luxury experience drawn from working with high-net-worth clients across 15 countries. Together, they form a powerhouse team designed to elevate Douglas Elliman’s stature in luxury real estate.

What This Means for Local Clients and American Investors

The establishment of these European branches allows not just for increased access to high-end properties in France and Monaco, but also serves as a bridge for European buyers seeking to invest in the U.S. market. This unique bi-directionality in services is invaluable, ensuring clients on both sides of the Atlantic gain unprecedented access to luxury properties. “Douglas Elliman's reputation for excellence aligns perfectly with our values. This opportunity allows us to offer our clients an elevated level of service and access to an extraordinary portfolio,” Curutchet stated. This reflects a mutual benefit that extends beyond borders and into lifestyle preferences, which are becoming increasingly global.

A Look Ahead: Future Expansion Plans and Insights

The initiative marks just the beginning as Douglas Elliman intends to broaden its international footprint further, with future plans for offices in Paris and the French Alps. The firm’s unique approach—placing emphasis on personal touch and market expertise—underlines their commitment to quality over quantity. As this venture unfolds, it is expected that luxury real estate will increasingly become accessible, potentially reshaping the landscape of international property investments.

As Douglas Elliman moves forward, its expansion into the French and Monaco real estate markets illustrates a significant evolution in the luxury property arena. Investors and homebuyers alike will want to keep an eye on this dynamic development, as it holds the promise of revolutionizing how luxury real estate is bought and sold on a global scale.