
PROPERTY
THE PROPERTY
market
Picture yourself sipping coffee on a sun-dappled terrace in Provence or wandering through the cobblestone streets of a medieval French village you now call home.
For many expats, buying property in France is the ultimate lifestyle upgrade. But before you sign on the dotted line, there are essential steps to ensure your French property dream doesn’t turn into a costly nightmare.
Here are some things you need to consider when looking to buy property in France. In many ways there is too much choice on where to buy or rent in France and so many lovely places to live.
The French property market is as diverse as its wine regions. From chic Parisian apartments to rustic cottages in Normandy, prices vary dramatically depending on the location. While hotspots like Paris, the French Riviera, and popular ski resorts command high prices, smaller towns and rural areas offer excellent value.
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Why Are You Buying?
Before embarking on your property search, be clear about your goals:
A Holiday Home: If you plan to rent out your property when not in use, choose a popular tourist destination with year-round appeal.
An Investment Property: Seek out locations with high rental demand and good infrastructure.
A Permanent Home: Consider proximity to schools, healthcare, and transport if you plan to live in France full-time.
Pro Tip: Look for properties with features that appeal to both renters and future buyers—like a pool, terrace, or central location.
the legal landscape
The good news? Expats face no legal restrictions when buying property in France. However, French property laws are unique, and understanding the legal process is crucial.
Hire a Notaire: A notary handles the legal aspects of the purchase, ensuring the property is free of liens and disputes.
Check the Title Deed: Ensure the title deed clearly defines the property’s boundaries and ownership history.
Understand Local Regulations: Historic properties may be subject to renovation restrictions due to heritage protection laws.
Pro Tip: Choose a bilingual notaire to avoid language barriers during legal proceedings.
financing your home
If you’re not buying with cash, securing a mortgage in France is possible—but be prepared for detailed financial scrutiny.
French Mortgages: Many French banks lend to non-residents, though terms depend on income stability and creditworthiness.
Deposit Requirements: Expect to pay a deposit of around 20-30% of the property’s value.
Hidden Costs: Budget for notary fees (7-10% of the purchase price), agency fees, and property registration taxes.
Pro Tip: Use a mortgage broker familiar with expat financing to secure the best deal.
taxation & inspections:
Owning property in France brings certain tax obligations. Property owners must pay annual taxes, such as the taxe foncière, while the taxe d’habitation is being phased out for many residents. Selling a property at a profit may incur capital gains tax unless it's your primary residence, and France's unique inheritance laws highlight the importance of estate planning. To avoid surprises, consulting a tax advisor who specializes in French property law is highly recommended.
When purchasing property, thorough inspections are key—particularly for older or historic homes. While inspections aren't mandatory in France, hiring a surveyor can help identify structural concerns. Home insurance is a legal requirement from the moment of purchase and provides vital protection against unforeseen damages. For those considering renovations, be realistic about costs and preservation rules. Gathering multiple quotes and timelines ensures you’re fully prepared for your investment.
Looking Ahead
Think long-term when purchasing property in France. Consider your retirement plans, potential rental income, and the resale value of the home. While you may be swept up in the romance of owning a French château, having an exit strategy ensures financial peace of mind.
If you are moving form abroad and unsure of where to what to buy then the team at A New Life in France are on hand to help you. Our dedicated Property Finding team have seen it and done it all, buying, renting, renovating, reparing and selling.
language
CONSIDERATIONS
The French property process is steeped in tradition, and the language barrier can complicate things. Working with bilingual agents, notaries, and legal advisors can make the process much smoother.
Learning basic French real estate terms can save you from misunderstandings.