“We couldn't afford turnkey”: how Patrick and Carole, 47, saved 80,000 euros by opting for a kit house. It's been four years since they set down their suitcases in the green heart of the Préalpes d'Azur regional park, in Escragnolles.

This couple of family assistants, parents of three grown-up daughters who have all left the family nest, take care of five young people. They share together a pretty powder pink villa with blue shutters.