The Buying Process:

The buying process in France is relatively straight forward, however the laws on buying can vary between different areas, so it is important to always check this even if you have purchased in France previously. Capital Gains tax is 33% if you sell your second property within two years, this rate reduces against additional ownership over a 22 year period. After 22 years it no longer applies. If you purchase an off plan development, the VAT of 19% is included in the price however the French government allow you to claim the VAT back. The main consideration is to expect to pay around 10-15% in notairial costs and fees over the selling price for resale properties and around 5-7.5% for new builds (up to 5 years old).

Here we have simplified the buying process for you:

• You give us your property requirements

• We arrange a viewing trip to view a selection of properties that match your requirements or we send you details of the properties that you have chosen from our website.

• We arrange for a meeting with our recommended mortgage advisor and legal advisor either in the UK or in France.

• You sign a preliminary/reservation contract and place a deposit to secure the property purchase, usually between 5% and 10% for a resale or 20% for a new build (off plan or maximum 5 years old), however 100% mortgages are available over 25 years, depending upon status.

• The remaining balance is payable on a resale by signing the title deed, the French Notaire will have checked the origin of the property and all legal and financial aspects related to the property. For new developments the developer will have already told you about the payment structure.

• Following the compulsory action of providing a basic insurance policy to protect the property, the transaction is registered at the Land Registry.

• The property is now yours

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