houses in france

For the purchasers of houses in france we have outline a few guidelines to both purchasing and owning french property

When you see houses in france offered by french estate agents or notaires, bear in mind that the prices quoted include between 5/8% sometimes even 10% agency fees which they have ADDED onto the Vendor’s basic price. The notaire collects these fees from you directly on the Acte de Vente (Completion)

general information on houses in france

Structural surveys are not commonplace in France but are often carried out by British Surveyors obviously at a price but whist we do not advise against these costs, obvious defects in houses in France are usually just that “Obvious” and usually a local specialist Tradesman can put your mind at rest. “Builders” as we know them, unless they are British, do not exist in France and individual Tradesmen have to be employed

houses in france prices

Prices are rising as more and more people realise the benefits of a second holiday home or a permanent move, but not to the extent of the UK. It is more of a gradual rise rather than boom and bust ! – You get so much more for your money and the higher price you can afford, the MORE value you get in proportion. Local Taxes are also a fraction of “Council Tax” in the UK which is an added attraction.

DON’T HOWEVER BE MISLED BY THE VALUES PORTRAYED ON THE RECENT SPATE OF TV PROGRAMMES, OFTEN REPEATS AND 2/3 YEARS OUT OF DATE. There are thousands of derelict buildings and houses in france suitable for renovation, mostly without any services whatsoever and the costs of renovation often prove totally prohibitive. Values vary considerably and there always exceptions to the rule but a “habitable” cottage is usually now above £70,000 in the North (More as you go further South) Also bear in mind purchasing costs ALL of which, whether directly or indirectly, are the purchasers responsibility. Agents Fees are usually between 6/8% (Only 3% through AMR) which are often disguised in the asking prices. In addition there are Notaires Fees(Legal) and Government Taxes which are on a sliding scale of between 5/10%