How to Find the Perfect Property in France

What’s perfection? The concept of perfection varies from person to person and is subjective. Is there such a thing as a flawless diamond or the perfect car? Au contraire, isn’t it the addition of those imperfections that make finding your special French abode, rare gem or person so special and enjoyable?

Picture Perfect

I often ask clients to imagine that ‘postcard picture’ in their mind; it may be a typical cottage with blue shutters and a pool. Or perhaps a stone property with views, a French chateau with plenty of history, a lock-up and leave village home. Or an investment property in the heart of Paris?

Draw it, sketch it, paint it, take a screenshot, and if you’ve seen your dream French house on our website, it’s even easier, just save it in your favourites and contact us for more details, we may even have a video to send you.

Do Your Home Work

Then it’s a good idea to compare it to your current lifestyle and to be realistic. There is always going to be compromises along the process, so make sure you list your top 3 ‘must have’ and the definite no-nos ….

Remember to prioritise and to put your expectations in perspective. For instance, compare to what you already have: the neighbours, the shops, the weather and don’t forget to think about location, this is vital, France is bigger than you think.

Another consideration is how much land you need and for what use? One hectare = over 2 acres, that’s plentiful for most people, even with a horse. Need more land? Then it may be a good idea to negotiate for a share of the gardening and maintenance tools.

It’s wonderful to have a farmhouse with privacy, but the land needs to be looked after, and if you don’t live there permanently, it can become a burden. And you will most likely need to drive to the village for all basic amenities or a cup of café.

Property is all About Location

We receive enquiries from all over the world for all property types and budgets. Many of our clients already know France and have a fair idea of a region they would like to live in. At the same time, others seem to struggle to get a grasp of regional differences, property prices, climate variations, access, and other such considerations. And we know how easy it is to get carried away browsing all our fabulous property listings on a cold evening by the fireplace.

Going on a house hunting trip in France has to be taken seriously and sadly sometimes people take the ‘let’s go for a day out at Ikea’ approach, hoping to find some inspiration one the way, this is wrong, and expensive.

Are You Sure about France?

Ultimately, it’s down to how motivated you are to make the move and the reasons for this lifestyle change or investment. And with the reality of the UK leaving the EU, it’s more important than ever to consider all aspects and ask yourself those hard questions, especially the financial ones, including currency transfers, mortgages, taxes, legal fees, etc ...

Getting the Timing Right

Once you’re ready to proceed with all the rights cards in hand, then we believe the property will present itself to you, as if by magic, in a similar way you eventually find that special partner, and special stone for them … simply because you are now ready and the timing is right. It’s easy!

For the Lucky Ones

If you are the ultimate perfectionist who have a precise location and property type in mind, don’t waste time and leave anything to chance, our a la carte bespoke hunting service may be useful. And for lucky lottery winners, shopping around for the highest quality, we can help find and purchase that dream luxury home in France.

Stop Searching, Start Finding

Are you ready to take the plunge? Register to start the search for your dream home and contact us to share your requirements.