BuyingAbroad: While France is considered an expensive choice, the city of Perpignan and its hinterland have escaped the hype of posher Mediterranean destinations such as the Côte d'Azur.

Last October, Dubliner Howard Hughes caught a Ryanair flight to Perpignan via Stansted.

He had a budget of under €70,000 and an appointment to meet Limerick sisters Suzanne and Karen O'Reilly in their Perpignan office.

A graphic designer in his thirties, Howard had found it impossible to afford a second property to rent out in Dublin.

Someone mentioned the Bids in France website and he decided to look further afield.

"I'd heard it was good there and I like the French way of life. It's an incredible location, near Barcelona and within driving distance of Andorra for skiing.

"I found a one-bedroom maisonette with a mezzanine near a wonderful beach in Barcares, 15 minutes' drive from Perpignan.

"It was €67,000 - brilliant. Karen and Suzanne were very helpful and we had it all sorted quickly.

"No issues or hidden costs - like going into a shop and buying fruit really.

"It sleeps six and came fully furnished. I bought it as a place to go for a holiday, but I do rent it through a letting agent in the summer months for about €400 a week.

I took my parents there in May and they also loved it. I've been four times.

"Haven't been skiing yet but I will.

"An inspired decision."