Road Map - Buying a French Property

It can be quite daunting if you are at the beginning of the search for your dream French property. Where do you start? Where can I get help?

Well - remember you can ring us on 0845 0530380 and we will be happy to answer your questions (Weekdays 9:00am to 5:30pm) or you can email questions to help@1st-for-french-property.co.uk.

We suggest some steps below - you may find that some steps are unnecessary - just jump to next suitable step..

Step 1 - getting started
a) Worried about the buying process >> read this article
b) Not sure which region >> read our regional guides
c) What do these regions look like >> see our photo section
d) What will my budget buy me >> see our price guide
e) Do you have any books to help me >> see our Book Store
f) I am interested in Investments only >> see our investment guide

Step 2 - choosing an area
France is divided up into regions and each region is divided into departments.
Our main property page is here. You click on the regional map or select a department from the drop-down selection box.

In addition - there is an alternative route....
a) Property by Region >> see property by region
b) Property by Department >> see property by department
c) You can also drill down to town - choose region , then department and then a list of towns will appear >> start here

a) Choose the property type from our popular list >> see property by type
b) Advanced Search: choose from extensive list of property types >> property section

Step 4 - arranging viewings
Most agents need about a week's notice. Be aware that Sunday is not normally a viewing day. Some agents also close on Monday. Half-terms and beginning of school holidays can get booked well in advance.

a) Email agent directly - see contact link on each property description
b) Email us directly - help@1st-for-french-property.co.uk
c) Call dedicated Help Line for viewings and Travel arrangements: 0870 3000903

Step 5 - viewings
Remember France is a LARGE country; the roads will be unfamiliar and travel can take TIME!  We recommend www.mappy.fr for road maps. The English have a BAD reputation for NOT turning up on time - please be do not be one! Remember that the French lunch hour (well 2 hours) is sacrosanct - do not expect the Agent to give up his lunch hour. After all you are buying into this new lifestyle!!

We recommend viewing no more than 4 to 5 properties per day; take a video camera (you soon forget!). Distances between properties can seem even longer on the French back roads.

Step 6 - making an offer
Do not be afraid to negotiate! Remember the first contract you sign is binding. In France an Immobilier will have a law degree and can write the first contract; otherwise the notaire will do it >> more details here

Step 6 - what's next
Services you may need - see menu on the left for our range of services
- mortgages
- legal help
- timber surveys (remember the pesky termite is active in France)
- insurance
- currency exchange
- French bank account (we recommend CA Britline)

Normally you are looking at 3+ months between making an offer and completion.

More help / FAQ / support >> Help here
Forum - valuable tips & experiences >> French Property Forum

Remember if you need help call us on 0845 0530380

[Next Guide: French Property Price Guide]