Types of French Properties

Whether you’re looking to buy that one-of-a-kind holiday property in the mountains, a traditional house in the countryside, or a townhouse in the city for an investment, France has it all.  With so many options available, though, it’s best to familiarize yourself with the different terminologies used to describe some of the various types of properties before you make that purchase.  Listed below is a quick summary of some of the more common real estate terms in France.  

Fermette
When you conjure up thoughts of the romantic French countryside, what often comes to mind is the quintessential farmhouse (fermette in French), with a slew of animals in the side barn.  An abundance of French farmhouses (fermettes) can be found in the rural countryside, with some dating back hundreds of years.  Most kitchens in these rural farmhouses are designed differently than the modern-day kitchens.  They might not have all the whistles and bells of newer kitchens, but they’re as equally as large, with loads of natural charm.

Bastide
When searching French property listings, you’ll probably come across the term “bastide,” which originates from the name given to medieval towns, especially in southern France.  These homes (usually located in the villages or countryside in southern France) typically are made out of stone, have square or rectangular design features, and are tiled throughout.  Round archways that lead to outside patios are common, as well as roofs that are nearly flat.  Today, many of these bastide homes in southern France have been refurbished into rather expensive, large country homes.  

Domaine
Domaine refers to a property that’s an estate.  Like estates in most countries, this type of home is usually located on a large piece of land, with perhaps a vineyard or two gracing its grounds.  

Mas
This common French real estate term refers to medium to large size houses generally found in Provence (southern region of France).  Mas properties can refer to either a bastide or farmhouse property or even a domaine that’s located in Provence.   

Pavillion
Pavillion homes refer to properties that have usually been built in the last 50 years and are located in northern France.  Most pavilions are single detached houses.  

Maison de maitre
Maison de maitre properties are large country homes or town houses, with high ceilings and plenty of rooms.  Many of these properties have ornate decorative features, which add to the classic French charm.  

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