Meet Marianne - owner of independent estate agency Marianne’s Gascony
I’m Marianne Fox, and a story that began with me selling pig huts in the UK in the late nineties now finds me matching people with farmhouses and family homes in the heart of Gascony — the traditional name for a large part of southwest France, with the Gers at its centre.
It’s been quite a journey, shaped by hard work, honesty and a very down-to-earth approach, and I’ve enjoyed every minute of it.
Today, as Marianne’s Gascony, I work as an independent estate agent with no physical office, giving me the freedom to work flexibly around my clients.
I support buyers and sellers across northern Gers with a calm, attentive and highly personal service in both English and French.
Why did you set up Marianne’s Gascony?
After more than 25 years working with agencies in the Gers, I realised clients were coming to me because they valued my way of working — steady, straight-talking and practical — rather than the name above the door.
Over time, many stayed in touch, recommended me to friends, or became friends themselves, which speaks volumes about the trust they have in me.
Creating Marianne’s Gascony made it possible to offer that same relationship-led service independently, with the freedom to work personally, in my own way and with genuine care for every client.
How are you different to other agents?
Unlike larger agencies, I manage the entire process personally. Sellers appreciate knowing that the person who visits their home is the same person who presents it to buyers — and that I know the property well, understand its feel and who it will appeal to.
Buyers also benefit from this continuity, with one consistent point of contact who can answer questions clearly and confidently.
With a deliberately small portfolio, I’m able to give every client the time and focus they deserve — qualifying viewings carefully and ensuring each conversation is informed, personal and purposeful.
Why should owners choose you?
I limit myself to a maximum of 20 properties at any one time, so your home is never lost in a long list of competing listings.
I create a complete marketing package — an honest description, photographs, drone images, and a floor plan — and advertise across the major French and international portals for maximum reach.
You’ll always speak directly with me, and every step of the process is handled with discretion, clarity and attention to detail.
What can buyers expect from you?
As a buyer, you can expect a calm, patient and personal service. I listen carefully to what you’re hoping to find and only show homes that truly suit — no pressure and no time wasted.
If you have particular criteria, I can also help uncover options through my local network. And every so often, I have Marianne’s Mystery Homes — special, off-market properties kept quiet at the owners’ request, which I introduce only to the right buyers.
From start to finish, you’ll deal only with me, with steady support at every step.
What attracted you to Gascony?
What first drew me to Gascony — or more specifically the Gers — was its sense of space, not just physically but emotionally. There’s a calmness here, a gentleness in both the landscape and the people.
I felt at home almost immediately. The beauty of the countryside, the slower rhythm of the villages and the sense of genuine community drew me in and made me want to build a life here.
Why the north of the Gers?
Over the years I’ve lived in different parts of the Gers, but the northern stretch which is often called the “Golden Triangle,” has a warmth and cosiness about it.
I live in Saint Clar which is a delightful town and has everything I need and my work gives me the perfect excuse to enjoy the wider area every day: the rolling landscapes where, on clear days, the Pyrenees appear on the horizon; the beautifully preserved medieval hilltop villages; the chic charm of Lectoure; and the sense of heritage woven into everything.
The weather is wonderful too, with proper seasons, and it’s peaceful without ever feeling isolated — Agen is just thirty minutes away, and the cities of Toulouse and Bordeaux are an hour further. Everything you could want is here, wrapped up in a region that feels grounded and quietly uplifting.
Describe your perfect day off
My ideal day off starts with a long walk with my two rescue dogs, followed by a gentle stroll from home into the bustling, welcoming village of Saint Clar for lunch with close friends.
Afterwards, it’s an afternoon and evening spent reading a good novel, almost certainly with a couple of cats curled up on my lap.
Estate agency life can be full on, so being able to switch off like this — surrounded by beauty, fresh air and open views — is good for the soul and reminds me why I love the simple life.
Please Get in Touch
Whether you’re looking to buy, sell or simply explore what’s possible, I’d love to hear from you.
Every search and every sale starts with a conversation. A simple chat, online or in person, is often the best place to begin.
You’ll find my contact details below — and please follow me on Facebook for new property listings and a glimpse of life here in Gascony.
