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Buying Property in France

Frequently Asked Questions

Buying Property in France

Yes. Foreign nationals are allowed to purchase property in France with no legal restrictions.

A valid ID, proof of address, bank statements and, if applicable, a residence permit.

The notary ensures the legality of the transaction, prepares the official deeds and registers the sale with the French authorities.

Yes. French banks may finance non-residents, subject to specific conditions and guarantees.

Purchase costs include notary fees, taxes and, if applicable, agency fees.

Yes. Schemes such as LMNP can offer tax advantages on rental income.

Typically between 2 and 3 months from the preliminary agreement to final completion.

Yes. Virtual tours and power of attorney make remote purchases possible, although an on-site visit is recommended.

For market stability, lifestyle quality and the opportunity to combine personal enjoyment with long-term investment.

Resale Guide for Non-Residents

Administrative procedures for resale

To resell a property in France, certain administrative procedures are essential. Here are the main steps:

1. Prepare the mandatory property surveys
Before putting a property up for sale, it is essential to provide a file of technical surveys such as the EPC (Energy Performance Certificate), asbestos survey and termite survey.

2. Gather the necessary documents
This includes the title deed, invoices for any work carried out, and, if the property is part of a co-ownership, the minutes of the general meetings for the last three years, as well as the statement of accounts for the previous year and the latest call for funds.

3. Sign a sales mandate
If you use a real estate agency, a mandate must be signed to define the terms of the sale.

Tip: Good administrative preparation can speed up the sale and avoid unnecessary delays.

Capital gains tax on property

If you make a capital gain on the sale, you may be liable for tax. Here are some key points:

  • Your main residence is exempt from this tax.
  • For a second home or rental investment, the tax rate varies depending on how long you have owned the property.
  • Tax allowances are available after 5 years of ownership, with total exemption after 22 years for income tax and 30 years for social security contributions.

Strategies to enhance your property

  • Carry out minor renovation work: A fresh coat of paint or a modernised kitchen can make a big difference.
  • Allow buyers to appreciate the space: Declutter and rearrange rooms to make them more attractive and allow buyers to appreciate the space.
  • Hire a professional photographer: High-quality photos attract more potential buyers.

How long to expect the resale to take

The time it takes to sell a property can vary depending on several factors such as location, price and demand, but also seasonality. On average:

  • Urban areas: 2 to 4 months
  • Rural areas: 6 months or more

Note: These timeframes may be longer if the asking price is higher than the estimated market value.

Mistakes to avoid when reselling

To avoid common pitfalls, keep these points in mind:

  • Do not overvalue the price of the property
  • Do not neglect the presentation of the property
  • Do not forget to prepare the necessary documents in time

By following these steps and avoiding these mistakes, you will increase your chances of selling quickly and under favourable conditions.

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