Buying in France Q&A
- A New Life
- Aug 13
- 3 min read
š Timeline & Process
Q: How long does it take to buy a property in France?
A: On average, it takes 3ā4 months from accepted offer to completion. Cash buyers may complete faster.
Q: Can the process take longer?
A: Yesādelays can occur if the seller needs time to vacate, legal documents are delayed, or rural agencies like SAFER exercise their right of pre-emption.
Q: Whatās the 10-day cooling-off period?
A: After signing the Compromis de Vente, the buyer has 10 days to withdraw from the purchase without penalty.
š Eligibility & Foreign Buyers
Q: Can non-EU citizens buy property in France?
A: Yes, there are no nationality restrictions. Buyers from the UK, US, Canada, Australia, and elsewhere are welcome.
Q: Do I need a visa to buy a property in France?
A: No. Buying property does not require a visa. However, residency visas are required if you plan to live in France long-term.
Q: Can I buy a property remotely from abroad?
A: Yes, many buyers complete the entire process remotely using power of attorney (procuration) and electronic signatures.
š¼ Legal & Notaire Questions
Q: What is the role of the notaire?
A: The notaire is a government-appointed legal officer who oversees the transaction, checks legal documents, handles funds, and registers the sale.
Q: Can I choose my own notaire?
A: Yes. Buyer and seller can either use the same notaire or each appoint their ownāthe cost remains the same.
Q: Are notaire fees fixed?
A: Yes. Notaire fees are regulated by law and are based on the sale price. They include taxes, registration, and legal costs.
š¶ Costs & Finance
Q: What extra costs should I budget for?
A: Besides the purchase price, expect to pay:
Notaireās fees (7ā8% for existing properties)
Agency fees (often included in asking price)
Currency exchange or transfer fees
Ongoing property taxes
Q: Can I get a mortgage in France?
A: Yes, foreign buyers can apply for French mortgages. Youāll need to provide financial documentation and usually a larger deposit than residents.
Q: What deposit is required?
A: Typically 10% of the purchase price is paid when signing the Compromis de Vente.
Q: Can I pay in foreign currency?
A: Funds must be transferred to the notaire in euros. Use a currency transfer specialist to get better rates than high-street banks.
š” Property Types & Conditions
Q: Are properties sold furnished?
A: Sometimes. If furniture is included, it must be listed and valued in an annex to the contract.
Q: Can I renovate a property I buy?
A: Yesābut major works may require planning permission (permis de construire). Always check with the mairie (town hall).
Q: Do I need a survey before buying?
A: Surveys arenāt required by law in France, but you can hire an independent surveyor for peace of mind, especially with older properties.
š§¾ Taxes & Ownership
Q: What are the annual property taxes in France?
A: There are two main taxes:
Taxe fonciĆØre: paid by the owner.
Taxe dāhabitation: paid by the resident (though often exempt for main residences).
Q: Do I pay capital gains tax if I sell later?
A: Yes, unless the property is your main residence. The longer you own the property, the more exemptions you receive.
Q: Can I rent out the property?
A: Yes. Long-term and holiday rentals are allowed, but some tourist areas may require a rental permit.
š§āš¤āš§ Ownership Structure
Q: Can I buy with someone else?
A: Yes. You can buy jointly with a spouse, partner, or friend. Be sure to choose the appropriate ownership structure (e.g. joint tenancy or indivision).
Q: What if I pass awayāwho inherits my property?
A: French inheritance laws apply, but you can structure ownership (via a SCI or marriage regime) or make a will under EU Regulation 650/2012.
š¦ Practical Matters
Q: Do I need a French bank account?
A: Yesāfor utilities, taxes, and ongoing payments. Your notaire may request a RIB (French bank statement) for documentation.
Q: Do I need insurance before completion?
A: Yes. French law requires you to have home insurance in place before signing the final deed.
Q: What happens on completion day?
A: The final deed (Acte de Vente) is signed, you pay the balance, receive the keys, and officially become the owner.