6 top tips for French property buyers

Have you done your homework? Follow our advice for buying property in France

1. Research, and then research some more.

It sounds obvious, but look at the whole of France. Did you know, for example, that there are parts of Charente-Maritime in the west that are as hot in the summer as Nice or Cannes in the south? Look at the style of houses you like as well as the sort of climate you want, and you might find that your budget stretches further in certain areas than you think.

2. Give yourself plenty of time to be flexible.

The property agent you’ve made an appointment with may have other properties in their portfolio that have just recently come onto the market. Or, after listening to you, he or she may have a colleague nearby with the type of property that fits your criteria. You could plan to visit one or two properties and end up seeing four or five.

3. Remember that your agent will have extensive local knowledge.

He or she will likely live in the area you are looking at and will know about everything, from schools to reputable local builders to the best spot for a cup of coffee on a Saturday morning.

4. Research the travel links you may need.

France has extremely good travel links with its TGV service and many airports. If you like to pop back to the UK frequently, you need to be within a reasonable distance of a transport connection. You may also find a lot of family and friends will come over to visit once you have moved.

5. Think about your finances.

It’s best to get as much information as you can. Work out the best way to transfer money and check to see if you might benefit from a mortgage to help boost your buying power.

6. Be prepared to fall in love.

You may be on a viewing trip but you might just see the property of your dreams and want to move a little faster than you thought in order to secure it. In some areas, property sells very quickly and if you’ve done your research and your preparations regarding finance, you may be in a position to make an offer. Come over to France and have a good look at what’s on offer, be sure to take as much advice from the experts as you can – and then take the leap!

Maria Short is a key account manager with Foreign Currency Direct plc

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