A bet on death? Inside France’s peculiar viager housing system

Every year, thousands of French seniors sell off their homes – from magnificent Mediterranean villas to Parisian penthouses with million-euro views – at a steep market reduction. But France’s centuries-old “viager” system is a touchy subject that sparks strong opinions. While proponents argue it is a way for people to secure their sunset years, critics describe it as a cynical bet on death.