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Where is Le Midi? Is it in Provence or Occitanie?
In France, " le Midi " generally refers to the southern regions of the country , where locals have that beautiful “singing accent” and where pétanque originated. To visualise it in your mind, you…
Finding my Paradise in the French Countryside
Welcome to our brand-new château series, "An American in the Pyrénées," featuring Trish, a former corporate professional from the United States who discovered her corner of paradise in the French countryside.…
Ponts, Viaducts, French Bank Holidays and Cheese
This month, our resident writer, Beth, tells us about May in France, affectionately called "le mois du gruyère" by some, a delightful French expression that captures the essence of the month. Literally, it translates…
Decipher the Real Estate Code: Agent 004 is on a Mission
Glamour, intrigue, and the ever-elusive dream home ... This isn’t your typical property guide. As the world turns its gaze to Cannes for the film festival, and while former Bond girl Halle Berry finishes a mojito in…
What Is a Real Estate Bon de Visite Certificate in France?
If you're searching for property in France , you may be asked to sign a ' bon de visite ', also known as a visit certificate. It may seem like a routine formality, but it plays an essential role in how real estate transactions…
10 Reasons to Buy in Hérault, the Heart of Languedoc
Whether you're dreaming of a quiet life under the Mediterranean sun or looking for a holiday home investment, the Hérault in southern France ticks every box. This lively corner of Occitanie , formerly known as Languedoc,…
Lights, Camera, Cannes: A Love Letter to France Through Film
As the Cannes Film Festival once again draws the world’s gaze to the Riviera , it feels like the perfect moment to celebrate the unique bond between France and cinema . Whether you’re strolling through a Provençal…
The Ultimate French Cheese and Wine Pairing Guide
Bonjour, cheese and wine enthusiasts, and lovers of wonderful France ! Today, we're taking you on a different culinary journey, exploring the harmony of fromages and vins from the same regions and departments . Emily…
Spring Estate Maintenance Routine
When I asked Beth to share her spring maintenance routine on her estate in the heart of Occitanie , I hadn't fully grasped the scale of her property! Her domaine spans an impressive 415 acres, featuring a diverse landscape…
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…
Takeaway Heaven in France
The days are slowly getting longer, the sun is warmer, and spring is on the way. Until the weather warms up and permits lighter dishes and al-fresco summer barbecues , there’s nothing like enjoying an evening takeaway…
Over 100 Interesting and Unusual French Facts
France is filled with charm and intrigue, from the busy streets of Paris to the scenic Bordeaux vineyards and the bee-filled lavender fields in Provence . In this article, we invite you to explore over 100 fascinating…
Affordable New Build Homes and Villas in Western France
If you're considering purchasing a new build villa or off-plan property in Western France , particularly in Brittany, Normandy, or the department of Vendée in the Pays-de-Loire, you're investing in some of the country’s…
Local Planning in France – What is a PLU?
Understanding the Plan Local d'Urbanisme (PLU) is essential when developing real estate or buying property in France . The PLU is a local plan that sets the rules for development in a commune, determining what can be built…
Healthcare in France: I Love our Pharmacies
Beth, our resident expert and storyteller from the picturesque Tarn-et-Garonne , invites us to explore the essential role of pharmacies in everyday French life. With France’s abundance of well-qualified and knowledgeable…
Why Rugby and France Are a Perfect Match
Ah, le rugby, where grit meets grace, and passion fills the air! In France, rugby is more than a sport; it’s a way of life, deeply embedded in the culture of its cities, especially in the south and southwest of the…
Discover La Galette des Rois: A Royal Treat for January
The Galette des Rois is eaten in France to celebrate Epiphany in early January; it's another tradition to celebrate around Christmas time. However, it is common for the festivities to extend throughout the month. When we…
Find your Dream Dordogne Home near a Fairway
The Dordogne region in southwest France is a golfer's paradise, offering a beautiful mix of amazing landscapes, challenging courses, quality greens, cultural heritage and superb facilities. If you’re a keen golfer…
Restoring Listed Castles and Monuments Historiques
In 2024, France had 45,080 protected historic monuments (buildings), of which 30,763 were registered and 14,317 classified. But what is the difference between a Château Classé and a Château Inscrit…
A to Z: 25 French Words You May Have Never Heard Of
When people think of France , and the French language, words like " bonjour ," " amour ," and " croissant " often come to mind: simple, charming and familiar terms. However, beyond these commonly known words lies a…
Tartiflette Recipe: Food for Keeping Warm in Winter
If you are an expat living in beautiful France , you may have tasted or heard of Tartiflette and other traditional seasonal dishes such as Pot-au-Feu, Bouillabaisse, Cassoulet or Boeuf Bourguignon . And you’ll…
Christmas Quirks in France
Beth, our resident expert and storyteller from the picturesque Tarn-et-Garonne, takes us on a festive journey through some of the delightful Christmas traditions in the heart of southwest France . From unexpected culinary…
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 to complete the sale and acquisition.…
Celebrating Saint Nicholas: A Traditional Christmas Treat
In the northeastern regions of France , particularly in Alsace, Lorraine and parts of Franche-Comté, the celebration of Saint Nicholas is deeply cherished by locals. This festive occasion occurs on December…
The Season of Remembrance and Cheer
We’re a bit late posting this article, intended to be published last week, in November, désolé, it’s been a busy autumn here at my-french-house, particularly with American buyers . In this blog,…
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
The French Alps are set to host the 2030 Winter Olympic Games, scheduled for February 1 to 17, 2030. This Alpine region of France will once again be the epicentre of world-class winter sports, drawing in athletes, spectators,…
The Carnet de Santé: Our Guide for Expat Families in France
If you’re an expat family moving to France with young children or planning to have kids there later, you may want to learn about the “ carnet de santé ”, a unique French health record booklet. This…
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 posted on our French property blog , we explain the importance of understanding what a " compromis de vente " is, or a pre-contract. This is the first step in mapping out the buying process , after the…
Discovering the Canal Du Midi
This month, Beth invites us on a leisurely stroll along the Canal du Midi, a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the heart of southwest France. Join her and her four-legged friends as she explores the enchanting…
Estimate the Value of your French Property Online
Here at My-French-House.com, we often receive requests from property owners in France asking if we provide a valuation service, advertise on our website , or can recommend an estate agent in the area to come around and "have…
Fête Fever in Rural Occitanie
In her latest article, Beth shares a fun-filled real-life experience at a local end-of-summer and post-harvest party in her peaceful corner of Occitanie . These traditional village parties are attended by many locals…