Guide to buying a French property
About France
France is widely acknowledged to be one of the most beautiful countries in the World, offering a much more relaxed lifestyle than any other country. Life in general is cheaper, the weather is nice and moderate, food is tastier and healthier and the health system is ranked as one of the highest in the world.
Why Buy Property In France?
Over the last decade or so, buying property in France has been a very popular investment alternative for many people, be it for a permanent move, a secondary home, a long-term or holiday let. Not only are French property prices still cheaper than in the UK or in other E.U. territories, but the prospect of living the "French Way of Life" has also been an important deciding factor.
It is therefore not a surprise that so many British and buyers of overseas properties are looking to purchase a French property. Today, with the still hesitant stock exchange market, uncertainty of pension related schemes, very low bank interest rates in the UK, old-fashioned bricks and mortar seem to be the families’ and investors’ favourite choice.
The buying process of real estate in France although different is very straight forward and France is considered to be one of the safest European countries to buy property.
Perhaps you are looking for a new life for your family, a quiet and beautiful place to retire, new challenges for your career or business opportunities. France has all of that and much more.
Living in France … What Is It Like?
As one of Europe’s largest countries, a thousand kilometres from north to south and from west to east, it caters for all individual tastes. Families who have made the move tell us of a feeling of space, a sense of community, a friendly atmosphere, value for money, warmer weather, a great motorway network and that’s without mentioning the unique history and traditions, culture and style, individual regional characteristics, the incredible variety of places, landscapes, beaches, mountains and hills, leisure and sporting activities, cheeses and wines of all sorts …
With an ever-increasing number of cheap flights, destinations and airlines, France is one of the cheapest, quickest, ‘greenest’, and easiest destinations to get to from the UK and other EU countries. Fast trains, Eurostar, shuttles and ferries are other fast and cost effective ways to get to this fantastic country.
Things You Need To Know
You must, however, be aware that the conveyancing process will be different to that of your home country. It is very important that you research and seriously consider the legal, tax and inheritance issues in order to avoid any surprises at a later stage.
You will also have to deal with new words, terms and perhaps measurements, as well as think about insurance policies for your home, loan, health or car, and calculate in a different foreign currency than your own.
Take a look at our regularly updated selection of French properties for sale and you too could soon own your house in France!
