Buying Guide

The process of purchasing a property in France normally takes around 3-4 months. Buying a home in a foreign country can seem daunting but we are here to ‘hold your hand’ throughout the process.

The following information is a step-by-step guide on how the process works.

Before you Visit

We want to make your buying trip as productive as possible for you. Prior to your visit we will call you to discuss your property requirements and arrange your appointment. This will help with your selection process and we’ll be able to suggest a number of properties you may wish to consider. In our experience it’s never a good idea to set your heart on just one property in case it gets snapped up before you arrive. We aim to provide a viewing service tailored to meet your needs, therefore, we can offer you a range of flexible appointment options.

The Viewing Day

When you arrive at the office we will spend some time planning the day and answering any questions you may have. Once we’ve selected the properties you want to visit, you will be asked to sign a ‘Mandat de Recherche’ and a ‘Bon de Visite’. These confirm that we have explained the Agency fee, introduced you to the property and also include a client confidentiality clause. The documents are standard practice in France and as with all our key documents, are set out in both French and English. You will be given copies of these documents. Once we’re on the road, we will answer any questions, offer advice  and translate where needed. Having been through the process ourselves, of buying and living in France, feel free to pick our brains throughout the day.

Making an Offer

Once we’ve helped you find your dream home and you’re ready to make an offer, we will contact the vendor on your behalf to start the negotiation process. When the price is agreed, you will be asked to sign a ‘Proposition d’Achat’ (offer letter) which is sent to the vendor to formally register your interest and start the buying process. At this stage, we will also discuss any additional clauses that may need to be included in the first contract such as planning permission or mortgage details.

Compromis de Vente ( First Contract )

The Compromis de Vente is the document that sets out the terms of the sale. To draw this up we will need copies of passports, birth certificates and marriage/divorce certificates. Under French law the vendor has to provide a series of reports (lead, asbestos, heating and termites – where necessary) which will be sent to you along with the Compromis. Once all parties have signed this contract, you will be notified by letter that you are entering your seven day cooling off period. During this time, as the purchaser, you can withdraw from the sale without penalty. At the end of the seven days you will be required to pay a deposit to the Notaire – normally 10% of the agreed asking price.

Completion

After the seven day cooling off period expires, the file is sent to the Notaire who will start the local searches. It is the Notaire’s job to ensure the sale is completed according to French law and to draw up the Final Contract ( Acte de Vente). Approximately two weeks before the agreed signing date you will need to arrange transfer of the balance of funds to the Notaire. For completion day we will arrange your property insurance and change utilities into your name.

Congratulations you now have the keys to your home in France. Time to relax and enjoy or get down to some serious DIY !!!