Over the course of the last two decades our expertise at Selection Habitat has assisted thousands of clients in discovering their ideal home in France. While the purchasing procedure is relatively uncomplicated, we prioritise our clients by providing peace of mind with the invaluable support of our local seasoned agents that will help and advise you. This assures that you are guided seamlessly throughout the entire buying process from your first visit to the final signature.
Start by clarifying what you’re looking for. A holiday home, investment property, or permanent residence.
Consider:
France has very different markets. From affordable countryside areas to luxury coastal or alpine regions.
Do your homework on:
Non-residents can usually get a French mortgage, though banks often require:
Choose a licensed French estate agent (agent immobilier) with a valid carte professionnelle.
They can:
Once you’ve found the right property, submit a written offer to the seller.
If accepted, this is not yet legally binding, but it leads to the first contract stage.
Two main types exist:
You’ll pay a deposit (usually 5–10%), which is held by the notaire or agent.
You then have a 10-day cooling-off period to withdraw without penalty.
A notaire is a government-appointed legal officer who ensures the transaction is lawful.
They:
During the 2–3 months between contracts, the notaire gathers all legal documents and your lender finalises the mortgage.
You’ll need:
You’ll meet at the notaire’s office (or sign via power of attorney).
The notaire reads the document aloud, funds are transferred, and keys are handed over — you are now the legal owner.
Don’t forget to:
It’s important to note that the process may vary depending on the specific circumstances and any legal requirements at the time of purchase. It is recommended to seek professional advice from a notary or real estate expert to ensure a smooth transaction. An average property purchase takes approximately 3 months.
