Buying property in France often starts with a simple idea: find a beautiful home, make an offer, and start your new life.
In reality, the French property system follows its own rules, timelines, and logic, and that’s where many international buyers get caught off guard.
In this one-hour session, FAB sits down with property expert Ben Ashcroft to break down what actually happens when you buy property in France, from the first search to the final signature. The goal is simple: help you understand the process, avoid common pitfalls, and move forward with confidence.
If you’re planning to relocate, invest, or buy a second home in France, this replay gives you the clarity most buyers wish they had before they started.
Understanding the French Property Buying Process
One of the biggest differences expats discover is that buying property in France is highly structured and regulated.
From the moment your offer is accepted, the process follows a defined legal path:
- A pre-contract is drafted
- Legal checks are carried out
- Financing (if applicable) is confirmed
- The final sale is signed with a notaire
On average, the timeline is:
- Around 2-3 months without financing
- Around 3-4 months with a mortgage
This structured process can feel slow compared to other countries, but it’s designed to protect both buyer and seller at every step.
Can Foreigners Get a Mortgage in France?
A common assumption is that international buyers need to purchase in cash. In reality, getting a mortgage in France is possible, but the rules are strict.
French banks take a conservative approach:
- Monthly repayments are typically capped at around one-third of your income
- A deposit of 25-30% is often expected
- Age and financial profile can influence approval
The upside?
Once approved, mortgages in France are:
- Often fixed-rate for the entire term
- Typically more stable than in many other countries
What Costs Should You Expect?
Many expats underestimate the true cost of buying property in France.
Beyond the purchase price, you should plan for:
Notary Fees
These are often referred to as “notaire fees,” but most of the cost actually goes to the state.
- Around 8% for older properties
- Lower for new builds
Agency Fees
Usually already included in the listing price and paid by the seller in most cases.
Additional Costs
- Buyer’s agent fees (if you choose to use one)
- Renovation or upgrade costs
- Ongoing property taxes
Understanding this full picture early helps you avoid budget surprises later on.
Location Matters More Than You Think
One of the most common mistakes international buyers make is choosing a property based purely on appearance.
It’s easy to fall in love with a large countryside home, a château-style property or a “dream house” at a lower price.
But what matters just as much is location and accessibility.
Living too far from:
- Shops
- Healthcare
- Transport links
The key is balance:
A slightly smaller property in a better-connected location often leads to a much smoother lifestyle.
Renovation: Where Things Can Get Complicated
Renovating in France is absolutely possible but it comes with rules.
Key points to understand:
- Structural changes often require planning permission
- External modifications (windows, façades, colours) are regulated
- Different zones (urban, agricultural, protected areas) have different restrictions
For anything beyond light interior work, working with professionals such as architects, project managers or certified builders is strongly recommended.
Another important point:
In France, builders must have 10-year insurance (garantie décennale) to cover structural work
This is not optional and it’s one of the key ways the system protects buyers.
Property Inspections: Don’t Skip This Step
While sellers are required to provide diagnostics, these reports don’t cover everything.
They typically focus on:
- Interior elements
- Energy performance
- Certain technical checks
They do not fully assess structural risks like:
- Roof condition
- Walls
- Long-term integrity
That’s why many buyers choose to bring in an independent inspector after an offer is accepted.
It’s one of the most effective ways to avoid costly surprises after purchase.
Understanding DPE (Energy Ratings)
Energy performance is becoming increasingly important in France.
Properties are rated from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient)
This rating affects running costs, renovation requirements and rental potential.
For example: Some lower-rated properties cannot legally be rented without upgrades
Over time, regulations are tightening, which makes energy performance a key factor in long-term planning.
Taxes and Ongoing Costs
Owning property in France comes with ongoing obligations, regardless of nationality.
The main ones include:
- Taxe foncière (property ownership tax)
- Taxe d’habitation (for second homes, in many cases)
These costs vary depending on location and property value, but are generally considered reasonable compared to some other countries.
Watch the Full Webinar Replay
If you’re planning your move and want clarity before making decisions, you don’t have to figure it all out on your own.
👇 Watch the replay below to dive deeper into the process and get practical insights before you start your property search.
Next Steps for Your Move to France
Legal disclaimer: This webinar is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice.
Transparency disclaimer: FAB’s core business is health and expatriate insurance through FAB French Insurance. We are committed to supporting every aspect of your move to France, from paperwork to professional life.