Money, Legal & Taxes
French bureaucracy isn't as intimidating as it seems. This part clarifies taxes, residency and property regulations. We simplify aspects like currency, insurance, and legal requirements, so you can focus on enjoying la belle vie without paperwork worries.
Promesse de Vente? Or Compromis? Which is Better?
When buying property in France , you will probably come across a range of real estate terms before you sign the final deeds on completion day: " offre d'achat" , " promesse de vente" , and " compromis de vente , among other…
Simplify your Property Purchase with a Spot Contract
Why should you consider buying foreign currency using a Spot Contract? What is it, how does it work, and what are the benefits for transfers? How does it differ from a Forward Contract? When buying a property in France ,…
Learn about Vices Cachés in French Property
When people hear about guarantees and hidden defects, they usually think of a faulty household appliance, an electronic device bought online, or furniture with unsightly marks or damage. They probably don't consider potential…
French Property Market Analysis – Summer 2026
After several years of significant movement, the French property market appears to have entered a new phase. The sharp correction that followed the post-pandemic boom and the rapid increase in borrowing costs is largely…
Can Foreigners Run an Airbnb in France?
Most English-language guides to Airbnb rules in France are written for local owners who live near their properties. If you are British, American, Irish, or another non-resident with a French property and a booking…
Complete Guide to Diagnostic Technique Global (DTG)
If you own or manage a co-owned property ( copropriété ) in France, you should know and understand the Diagnostic Technique Global (DTG). More than just another diagnostic , the DTG is a complete health check…
Moving to France: Visa for American Homeowners
Over the past few years, American interest in French property has grown significantly, with over 150,000 Americans now living in France. As more people explore making France their home, questions about visas, taxes, and…
Termite Diagnostic Guide for French Properties
In France, the termite diagnostic ( état relatif à la présence de termites et d'autres insectes xylophages ) is essential for rural properties in areas known to be infested or at risk of termite activity.…
Jeanbrun Scheme: Tax Incentives for Rental Homes
In January 2026, the French government launched a new tax incentive, the Jeanbrun scheme, to promote investment in residential rental properties. This initiative addresses an approximately 15% decrease in rental supply over…
What is an S1 Form? How to Get One?
Moving to France as a UK or EU national involves navigating various administrative processes, one of the most important being healthcare coverage. The S1 Form plays a crucial role in ensuring that you can access healthcare…
Guide to SPANC Rules for Rural Homes in France
In rural France, where many country homes, old farmhouses and châteaux depend on individual wastewater systems, the SPANC report ( Service Public d’Assainissement Non Collectif ) is a vital legal and environmental…
LMNP: New Rules, Social Charges & Capital Gains
In France, the tax treatment of rental income from furnished properties varies depending on whether the landlord qualifies as a professional or non-professional furnished landlord. Non-Professional Furnished Landlord &…
Our Guide to the INPI & Intellectual Property in France
Just had an Eureka moment, with a business idea or a potentially revolutionary new product while relaxing by the pool in your country retreat ? Good news, France is a centre for innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship,…
France 2026 Budget: Tax & Property Changes Explained
Following months of political stalemate, the French Parliament approved the 2026 Finance Bill on Monday, 2 February, initiating a series of measures that will change the property landscape across France. These measures include…
Electrical Inspection in France: Requirements and Advice
In French real estate , you must have an electrical inspection when selling or renting a residential property. It assesses the internal electrical system to confirm safety. Like gas inspections , it is compulsory for installations…
France’s Investment Boom and What It Means for Property
In an era defined by geopolitical fractures, supply chain upheavals, and the great strategic decoupling, the question isn’t just where to deploy capital, it’s where to plant roots. France, the world's number…
2026 Outlook: Euro Exchange Rates & French Real Estate
The European economic landscape is rapidly evolving, presenting both opportunities and challenges for international property investors and enterprises engaged in cross-border trade within the Eurozone. For individuals considering…
Why Neighbour Nuisances Could Be Costly
Selling a property in France , or elsewhere, presents its own challenges, especially when persistent neighbour issues threaten to derail the sale. Whether it’s night disturbances, industrial odours, or ongoing construction,…
French Property Annual Market Report: Winter 2025
The Notaires de France have published their annual market report, focusing on residential sales. 2025 will be remembered as a period of recovery and cautious optimism, with transaction volumes increasing and buyer confidence…
What is a Lettre Recommandée LRAR in France?
If you own property, buy a home, or are an expat living in France , you’ll find French bureaucracy relies heavily on official paperwork, including the Lettre Recommandée avec Accusé de Réception…
French Property Gifts and Inheritance Tax Allowance
The donation of a property is subject to gift tax in France. The applicable tax rate depends on the relationship between the donor and the recipient. Lifetime gifts between spouses and civil partners are tax-free up…
Guide to Making an Offer on a Property in France
You’ve found the perfect property in France - that’s fantastic news, and only the start of the long buying process. Whether it’s a ski apartment in the Alps, a villa in Provence or a character home…
Can You Buy French Real Estate with Cryptocurrency?
We aim to stay current and keep you informed about the latest trends in the fast-moving French property market . As the popularity of cryptocurrencies increases, more buyers, particularly Americans and investors, are…
Buying A Rural Property? Know Your Access Rights
Considering buying a property in the French countryside? Whether you’re eyeing a secluded farmhouse in the Dordogne , a country mas in Provence or a holiday home in rural Occitanie , one key legal issue to understand…
Tax Reporting Obligations for Americans Living in France
The US imposes taxes on all its citizens, irrespective of their country of residence. This means that US citizens living in France are subject to US taxes. In contrast, France bases its taxation on tax residency.…
Gold Mine Discovered in Farmer’s Field in France
This case would have suited secret property agent 004 to the ground... Imagine stumbling upon a fortune so vast it could change your life forever! That is precisely what happened to Michel Dupont, a 52-year-old farmer in…
Changes in French Real Estate Tax Legislation
In this tax-related article for owners of property in France , we outline the main changes to French real estate tax legislation since the passage of the new Finance Law in February 2025. Crackdown on Short-Term Rentals…
Guide to the Carte Vitale Health Insurance Card in France
Moving to France is an exciting adventure, but understanding the healthcare system can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to the important Carte Vitale . This little green card is your key to accessing healthcare…
What Does it Mean to Buy French Property in Indivision?
In French property and real estate, " indivision " refers to a form of co-ownership in which multiple individuals share ownership of a property without dividing it into distinct portions. This means each co-owner has…
What is the Acte Authentique or Acte de Vente in France?
Selling or buying a property in France is an exciting but complex process. One of the most important steps is signing the acte de vente, a legally binding document drafted by a notary that completes the sale and transfer.…
What is Usufruct (Usufruit) in French Real Estate?
Usufruct ( usufruit in French property law) is a civil law term that refers to the right to use and enjoy the benefits and fruits of someone else's property without damaging or altering it, as long as it is used for its…
Invest in Ski Property Ahead of the Winter Games in France
Following a resounding success at the 2026 Games in Italy, the French Alps are preparing to host the Winter Olympics, scheduled for February 1 to 17, 2030. This stunning region of France will once again be the epicentre…
What is the Loi Carrez in French Property Law?
In our latest article about buying property in France , we look into the Carrez Law, a crucial regulation that ensures the accuracy of measurements for an apartment's main rooms and living areas. This law plays a vital role…
What Are Clauses Suspensives in a French Sales Contract?
In a recent article on our French property blog , we explain why it's important to understand what a " compromis de vente " is. This is the first step in the buying process, after the seller has accepted your …
Estimate the Value of your French Property Online
Here at My-French-House.com, we often receive requests from property owners in France asking whether we provide a valuation service, advertise on our website , or can recommend a local estate agent to come around and "have…
Optimise your Tax Situation with a Mortgage
Acquiring a French property with a mortgage offers several tax benefits, including income tax and succession tax. This article outlines the main advantages of financing the purchase of your dream house in France .…