Before you decide to buy, have at least one or two holidays in France and get to know some of the areas.

Decide upon a region you like best, rather than just a house which is cheap. You can find affordable housing even in the best areas such as the French Alps. When choosing a region you could not only consider the region itself, but also how well it is served by airports. For example you may like central Creuse, but may find air access a problem. On the other hand if you like the French Alps you not only have spectacular scenery, but also have major airports such as Geneva and Lyon nearby.

When you specifically come looking for property, make sure you give yourself plenty of time, at least a few days, and preferably at least a week. Don't just choose the first house you like. Look at a few more before you decide. Probably the best idea is to come on holiday and keep half an eye on property. If you use morethanaholiday.com a French speaker can not only show you the sights, but can also set up some property viewing appointments before you travel.

When you visit houses take a French interpreter with you if you suspect language will be a barrier.

If you use a UK company to find a house make sure you use one which does not charge you two lots of commission. It is normal for companies charge you estate agency & notaire commission in France on the purchase. However one or two companies also charge a UK fee amounting to several thousands of pounds as well. You should really only need to pay the French estate agency and notaire fee. If in doubt, ask about fees before you view a property with a UK company. You could also consider hiring the services of a French property consultant who can not only help you find property, but can also help with the whole process, from mortgages to moving in.

When you put an offer in. Feel free to negotiate.

Get the house checked out by a builder or an expert if in doubt.

Use an English speaking notaire (lawyer) or take an interpreter with you. Ask him to add any outstanding matters/concerns into the 'clauses suspensives' when he draws up the contract.

Have the contract translated by a professional translator

You can get a mortgage with 2 UK banks, but you will need a hefty deposit and the rates are not as good as those offered by French banks. You could go round French banks and see what is on offer if you speak French or take an interpreter. Alternatively you can use an English speaking French mortgage broker.

If your house is a new build you need to ensure that the work is being done to your satisfaction. This isn't possible from afar. You really need to visit the property at least once or twice during construction. In the interim it would be a good idea to become as fluent in French as possible. Ideally you should hire a French tutor.

If you have any concerns about work conducted by the builder/promoter who is building your house you should send him a letter by recorded delivery, and keep a copy yourself. You should bare in mind that French builders & workers can be notoriously slow. So be prepared for delays and excuses. If you are concerned about time you could build in time penalties in the contract for late work.

Finally, it should be stated that although there are quite a few things to consider when buying a property in France, it is far from impossible, and perhaps not as difficult as you think. What is more is that the rewards can be fantastic. So don't be put off!


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