Buying Guide - the Purchase
Having chosen your property in France, you may find the following guide useful:
- Purchase prices are quoted in Euros
- Prices quoted normally include the agents commission but do not always include the Notaire's fees and taxes unless otherwise stated. These normally represent around 7 to 10% of the purchase price
- Remember - always check with the agents or with Country Homes France for confirmation of what is included in the quoted price prior to making an offer
- The asking price may be negotiable and either Country Homes France or the agent can advise you on any offer you wish to make.
- Your offer can be made either to the agent in France or through Country Homes France. As the market in France is very buoyant at the present time, you are advised to let the agent know you that are interested - or call Country Homes France.
- Country Homes France and our agents will always try to secure the very best price for you.
- Offers to purchase can contain a number of conditions. For instance, securing a mortgage may be one of these and a special clause must be included to cover this. Note: you cannot apply for a mortgage on a property in France without signing an initial contract and this needs to accompany the mortgage application form.
- Any contract is conditional on reports being provided by the seller, for asbestos, lead, natural risk, thermal efficiency and termites. Before completion, first contracts can be conditional on you obtaining planning permission, where required. A first contract will always be conditional on establishing rightful ownership and local searches - the responsibility of the Notaire.
- Commitment to purchase does not happen until you have signed the first contract and paid a deposit (normally 10% of the purchase price). Unlike the UK you do have a 7 day cooling off period in which you can change your mind.
- Country Homes France and our agents will be on hand to guide and help you throughout the entire purchase procedure. This is all part of our service to you and is included free of charge.
- As in the UK all property conveyancing must be carried out by a legally qualified person - the Notaire. Our agent in France will be pleased to recommend a local Notaire to you. The Notaire will ensure that all searches, reports and conditional clauses have been completed prior to the final signature. Our agents normally attend the final signing with you and, if required, a translator will be present.
- Notaires are able to advise you on any questions about property law, inheritance and family law. Country Homes France works closely with a UK-based French Property Lawyer and we are always pleased to recommend him to you.
- Country Homes France and our French agents will assist you throughout the purchase procedure which is normally between 2-4 months.
- After completion of your purchase Country Homes France and our agents will help you arrange for the utilities to be transferred to your name, help you with the insurance, bank accounts and recommend other local services you may require.
Country Homes France and our French agents will help you to own your new home in France!
