The House Buying Process In France
Buying a property in France is actually a simple and secure process as long as you find a good agent who will guide you through the process.
It may sound simple, but finding the right area is where you need to start. We are surprised by the number of clients who have not carried out research on the region before coming to view properties.
After narrowing down the area (France is twice as large in area as the UK), it is essential to make contact with an established Estate Agent. One who will speak your language and take the time to understand your individual requirements and be able to shortlist the most suitable properties within your budget.
On finding a property your Agent will be able to advise you on the offer to make and carry out the negotiation on your behalf. Having an Agent in this instance will avoid the problems often occurred when trying to deal direct with a vendor and falling into the trap of paying over the odds for a property.
Once negotiation has been completed the vendor will provide diagnostic tests such as Termites, Lead Paintwork and Asbestos etc. These will be annexed to the ‘Compromis de Vente’ which is a legally binding document signed by both parties. We personally translate our ‘Compromis de Vente’ in French and in English so that you are 100% clear of the legal content. After signing the ‘compromis’ you will be informed, by recorded delivery letter, of your right to withdraw within 7 days, your vendor does not have this option. There is now no chance of ‘gazumping’ or being let down without penalty, something that seems to be missing in the UK buying process.
After this point a holding deposit of up to 10% (not obligatory) is requested to be sent to the notaire. This public official works as a conveyancer/tax collector for the state and it is his legal responsibility to ensure that all legal searches and title deeds are in order. (Example : Notaire’s fees on a purchase of 150 000€ would be 12 000€) This process will take approximately 8-10 weeks after which point the final deed can be completed. The signing will take place at the notaire’s office and at this time house insurance will need to be in place and the keys to your new property will be handed over.
If you would like more information and advice on the process in more detail all the team at TIC Ruffec would be pleased to speak to you. You can e-mail us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or by calling on 0033 5 45 71 00 46.
