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France – Buying Property

Ownership and Sale of Property by Foreign Nationals in France

Foreign nationals are legally allowed to own and purchase property in France without any specific legal restrictions. However, it is advisable to hire a local lawyer to assist with the process of buying property in France.

Average Property Prices

The average property prices in France vary depending on the location and condition of the property. Prices in major cities such as Paris and Lyon tend to be higher than in smaller towns and rural areas. Prices can range from as low as $50,000 for a small apartment in a rural area to over $1,000,000 for a luxury apartment in Paris.

Popular Locations

The most popular locations to buy property in France include the capital city, Paris, which offers a mix of modern amenities and historical sites. Other popular cities include Lyon, Marseille, and Nice. The coastal towns of Brittany and the Cote d’Azur are also popular choices among foreign buyers, as they offer beautiful beaches and a relaxed lifestyle. The province of Provence and the Loire Valley are also a popular option among foreign buyers, with its charming historical architecture and friendly local communities.

Upcoming Areas

In recent years, the cities of Bordeaux and Toulouse have become increasingly popular among foreign buyers, thanks to their growing expat communities and proximity to major airports. The city of Nantes is also an upcoming option, with a beautiful old town and a growing tourism industry.

Property Market Trends

The property market in France has seen steady growth in recent years, with an increasing number of foreign buyers looking to purchase property in the country. Many of these buyers are attracted by the high standard of living, friendly local communities, and the potential for rental income.


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Investment

Buying property in France can be a good investment, particularly in areas that are experiencing strong growth in tourism. However, it is important to do your research and to work with a local lawyer or real estate agent to ensure that you are making a sound investment.

Common Property Types

The most common property types in France include apartments, townhouses, detached houses, and villas. There are also a large number of plots of land available for purchase, particularly in rural areas. Additionally, there are a number of luxury villas and condos available in France, particularly in coastal and tourist areas.

Typical House Buying Procedure in France

The typical house buying procedure in France involves the following steps:

  1. Surveys/Inspections: Before making an offer on a property, it is important to have the property inspected by a professional surveyor. The surveyor will check for any structural issues or problems with the property, and provide a report outlining any issues that need to be addressed.

  2. Making an Offer: Once you have found a property that you are interested in purchasing, you will need to make an offer to the seller. This can be done through a real estate agent or directly with the seller.

  3. Notary: After the offer is accepted, a notary will be required to handle the legal aspects of the sale. The notary will check the property’s title and ensure that it is free of any encumbrances, and will also handle the transfer of ownership.

  4. Exchange of Contracts: Once the legal work is complete, the contracts will be exchanged. The buyer will pay a deposit, typically around 10% of the purchase price, and the sale will be considered legally binding.

  5. Completion: The final step is completion, where the remaining balance of the purchase price is paid and the keys to the property are handed over.

Finding a Reputable Lawyer in France

When buying property in France, it is important to find a reputable lawyer who can help you navigate the legal process. A lawyer can help you understand the legal documents, advise you on any potential issues, and represent you in court if necessary. Lawyers in France typically charge between 1% and 2% of the purchase price, but this can vary depending on the complexity of the transaction.

It is not necessary for a lawyer to be a member of a professional organization in order to practice in France. However, it is advisable to look for a lawyer who is a member of the Bar Association.

Pitfalls and Problems in France

There are several pitfalls and problems that expats often encounter when buying property in France. One of the most common is not understanding the legal process and the terms of the contract. It is important to have a good understanding of the legal documents and the terms of the sale before signing anything.

Another common problem is not obtaining a proper survey before buying a property. This can lead to unexpected costs and repairs down the line.

Purchasing Property Through a Company in France

It is possible to purchase property through a company in France. This can be useful for tax purposes and for protecting assets. However, it is important to keep in mind that a company will need to be set up and maintained, which can be a time-consuming and expensive process. Some examples of companies that can be used to purchase property in France include SARL and SCI.


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