How to Buy a House in France as a Foreigner – A Step-by-Step Guide
Dreaming of a home in the French countryside?
Whether you’re looking for a second home, a full relocation, or a future gîte project, buying property in France comes with both charm and complexity.
As an estate agent living and working in rural France, I help international buyers navigate the process every week. Here's a step-by-step guide that simplifies what can often feel overwhelming.
Step 1: Understand the Process (It’s Different Here)
In France, most property transactions follow a standard but very formal legal structure. It typically involves:
- Setting your budget — including ~7–8% in notaire fees
- Finding a property and making an offer
- Signing the Compromis de Vente (preliminary contract)
- Waiting through the legal review period (2–3 months)
- Signing the Acte de Vente (final deed) and receiving the keys
💡 The notaire is a neutral legal official, not a negotiator — and they’re essential to the process.
Step 2: Know What to Look for When Viewing Homes
This isn’t just about charm — you’ll want to ask the right questions:
- Roof and wiring condition?
- Septic tank or mains drainage?
- Insulation and heating system?
- Access issues, easements, or shared driveways?
Bring a checklist when you view. Trust me — it helps you think clearly when your emotions say “yes” before your head does.
Step 3: Prepare to Make an Offer
Offers in France can be made informally (by email or verbally), but they only become binding once the Compromis de Vente is signed. You can negotiate things like:
- What’s included (furniture, fixtures)
- Completion timelines
- Conditional clauses (subject to finance, planning, etc.)
Need Help Staying on Track?
I created a French Property Buyer Toolkit that includes printable pages to help you organize your search, prepare your offer, and understand key terms like notaire, mandat, and DPE.
Included:
- A viewing checklist
- Offer & negotiation worksheet
- French–English glossary of property terms
- A quick-start buying guide
Bonus: Start with the Free 10-Step Checklist
If you’re not quite ready for the full toolkit, you can get started with a free download:
📩 [Click here to get the free 10-step checklist]
(A great place to begin planning your move or viewing trip)
If you have questions about the buying process, or if you're planning a trip to view properties in France, I’m always happy to help — just reach out.
À bientôt,