Over the course of the last two decades our expertise at Selection Habitat has assisted thousands of clients in discovering their ideal home in France. While the purchasing procedure is relatively uncomplicated, we prioritise our clients by providing peace of mind with the invaluable support of our local seasoned agents that will help and advise you. This assures that you are guided seamlessly throughout the entire buying process from your first visit to the final signature.
Begin by searching for properties that meet your requirements. You can use real estate websites, work with a real estate agent, or contact Selection Habitat that also work as property Finders, (buyer’s agent). Our agent’s speak English and French, in case you don’t!
Once you have identified potential properties, schedule viewings to personally inspect them. After your first visit, plan a second viewing with your shortlisted properties.
Take photos and videos for reference and to compare differences when away from the property. Create a pro’s & con’s list to identify your favourite.
If you decide to proceed with a property, you can make an offer to the seller, usually via an agent. This offer can be made verbally or in writing with an offer letter and it can include conditions (suspensive clauses) such as financing and the inclusion of certain items.
If the seller accepts your offer, a preliminary contract (promesse de vente) will be drawn up. This contract outlines the terms of the sale, including the purchase price, clauses, conditions, and timeframe for completion.
Arrange financing for the purchase if necessary. Our partners will guide you and help you approach French banks to explore your options.
In France, a notary (a real estate lawyer) appointed by the Minister of Justice has the power to oversee the property purchase process. The notary ensures that all legal requirements are met, conducts property searches and handles the transfer of ownership. They work for the buyer and the seller simultaneously and make sure that all taxes are paid and the house is debt free.
After signing the preliminary contract, there is a mandatory cooling-off period of 10 days during which you can withdraw from the purchase without penalty.
Once the cooling-off period ends, you proceed to the completion stage. The final contract (acte de vente) is signed in the presence of the notary, and the remaining balance is paid. The property’s transfer of ownership is officially registered.
Be aware of the fees and taxes associated with buying a house in France. These can include notary fees, registration fees, and property transfer taxes.
They average from 8-10% of the purchase price in total.
After completing the purchase, you will need to handle tasks such as transferring utilities, insurance, and updating your address.
It’s important to note that the process may vary depending on the specific circumstances and any legal requirements at the time of purchase. It is recommended to seek professional advice from a notary or real estate expert to ensure a smooth transaction. An average property purchase takes approximately 3 months.
