Prestige Property Group

French Property

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We offer access to 99.9% of the local property market including off-market options

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France, famed for its boulevards, fashion and food, is one of the most popular areas of Europe in which to buy a second home, and offers a great range of typically French property for sale such as pleasant townhouses, rustic farmhouses and magnificent French chateaux. Its location between the temperate climes of Britain and sun-drenched Spain ensure a variety of climates to match your lifestyle. You are bound to find the ideal French property for sale, whether you long for balmy days on a Cote d'Azur terrace, the sparkling clean air of the mountains or the seasonal ebb and flow of Normandy life played out amongst bustling markets and sleepy country lanes.

France is still a largely agricultural country and, away from the towns, the population density is still one of the lowest in Europe. With a long history of countryfolk leaving for a more cosmopolitan urban life, the potential of much French property lies unexploited and waiting for a new owner with ideas and enthusiasm. With prices rising steadily for both non-renovated and renovated properties, now is the time to look for that hidden gem that is both affordable and a great investment for the future.

Buying French Property

A notaire (public notary) is an integral part of buying a property in France. They represent neither buyer nor seller, but the French Government - and their impartiality is an obligation taken seriously. The notaire oversees many legal aspects of the sale, such as whether the seller is legally entitled to sell what he is offering, whether any future nuisance is likely to impinge on the use and enjoyment of the property and the drawing up of contracts. However, as many notaires speak little English, it may be worthwhile engaging the services of an English-speaking legal consultant who is qualified in French law and who has experience in the area of French property sales.

The notaire can also offer advice on how to buy your French property to reduce the tax implication when you sell or will your property.

You will be expected to organise connection to utilities - gas, electricity, water - and to provide a translator (if required) to help you to understand the documentation. A good French-qualified legal consultant may be able to help with these tasks.

Where to buy property in France

We market over 1500 examples of French property situated in most of the departments, from plots of land to the most exclusive chateaux and villas. We work closely with a number of professional local agents, carefully chosen for their service and after-sales support.

Like many countries, France has some distinctive regional building styles that reflect the materials available, the history and wealth of the population and the age of the local settlement. Many older French properties are built from local stone, quarried and brought the few miles to the site. Other more prominent buildings may be built from more durable or more beautiful stone, quarried many miles away, such as the famous, golden Caen stone from the Normandy region.

Whether your dream French property is a little riverside cottage or a farmhouse surrounded by acres of land, our large database of French property will undoubtedly provide a number of options to consider.

The Poitou Charentes region, incorporating the Charente, Charente-Maritime and Vienne, is an enormously popular location to buy a second home benefitting from one of the highest sunshine indexes in France, a beautiful coastline, forests, lakes and gorgeous villages just waiting to be explored. The rural way of life stills grips the Poitou Charentes, with weekly petanque in the village square, fresh produce at the local market and friendly bistros from which to watch the world go by.

Provence and Cote d'Azur is well known as the capital of sunshine and sunflowers, lavender and luxurious villas and includes the departments of Alpes Maritimes, Var and Bouches du Rhone. The region includes glamorous hotspots such as Nice, Cannes, Monaco and St Tropez where beautiful residences cling to the hillsides amid shimmering azure seascapes.

The Loire and its famous valley, full of stunning manors and chateau estates, offers some of the biggest bang per buck of any area of France as well as a down-to-earth but modern French lifestyle.

The Languedoc Roussillon is an area in the south of France, between Provence and the Spanish border, with a coastal plain that is mainly flat and greatly influenced by the Rhone delta. It includes such famous towns as Montpellier and Carcassonne, stunning gorges, lovely nature parks and many beautiful sandy beaches. The departments of Herault, Gard, Pyrenees Orientales, Aude and Lozere are included in the Languedoc.

Income from your French property

While the gite market has slowed as demand begins to be sated by supply, potential for generating income from French properties is still good. As the world's top destination with an average of over 60 million visitors per year, France's position and variety of coastal, rural and city backdrops gives it an enviable holiday and cultural fascination amongst the tourists of the world, particularly in the UK, Germany, Netherlands and the US. Many buyers are now looking for French properties suited to providing activity breaks to generate a summer income, rather than just basic accommodation. We have many such properties in France, from country cottages to a fully-functioning Parisian hotel.

French property with gites are still strong favourites among our clients, who look to casual renting as a means to help pay off the mortgage rather than as a main source of income. Of course, demand has not dropped for gite accommodation among tourists. One cautionary note, however, is that some mortgage lenders are now refusing to offer quotes for gite and leaseback properties due to their perceived risk if this income is relied upon to cover repayment.

1. Signing the Agreement (Compris)

On finding a property you wish to purchase you will need to negotiate the terms, price and conditions of the sale with the owner.

The next step, once you are in agreement, is to sign the preliminary contract (Compromis de Vente). This is a legal document and after ten days will be binding on both parties. Rules change frequently in France and it is best to consult with your notary about when this period starts. Generally the compris will be signed in France with the Agent.

Variants can be included in the compris, for example an Acte (clause) can be added if the name or names to go on the title deed have not been finalised. If a mortgage will be required to purchase the property, the details for this, including the name of the mortgage company, must be on the compris.

2. Paying the Deposit

Generally the deposit will be 10% of the agreed purchase price. This will normally be paid to the notaire. There are exceptions to this, if the agent holds a carte professionelle, is bonded and fully registered then you may pay them, but do not hand over the deposit to anyone else. If for some reason the purchase does not go through, for example, if you write to the notaire and the agent that you do not wish to go continue with the purchase before the contract is binding (within seven days of signing the compris), then your deposit would be repaid. This would also apply if a condition had not been met, or the mayor or S.A.F.E.R. (a government agency that has the right of first purchase on most rural property that comes onto the market in France) could oblige the purchaser to give way. If you decide after the seven days 'cooling off' period that you do not wish to complete the purchase and pull out of the sale you would lose your deposit. If however the vendor pulls out of the sale then you will receive your deposit back plus the same amount from the vendor.

3. On Completion

Generally it will take around two or three months to complete the purchase.

During this time the balance of the purchase money must be paid into the account of the notaire, this must be done well ahead of the completion date. The notaire will prepare the documents, check that the deed of sale (Acte de Vente) is in order and have the legal title ready to be signed over. It is possible to have someone sign on your behalf if you give them power of attorney. An interpreter may be of use at this point if your French is not very good and many Notaires will suggest (or insist) that an interpreter is with you.

IMPORTANT - Disclaimer :
All information provided is believed to be current and provided free of charge. No liability can be accepted for the reliability of the information and statements made as this is obtained from 3rd parties. We always recommend you take legal advice from a fully qualified Lawyer or Notary before buying a property overseas.

2789 properties

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Wonderful opportunity to acquire a beautiful 19th Century French Chateau nestling in 3.5 acres of glorious land, while enjoying far reaching countryside views from its peaceful location in Lilebonn......

Enquire For PriceREF: 251592

- 95 bedroom Hotel for sale in Paris, Paris-Ile-de-France

Five star hotel in the heart of Paris with over 95 bedrooms. Floor space 5,200m2. In the region of an additional 21 million Euros of refurbishment work required. Please enquire for more details......

75,000,000 EURREF: 201089

120 bedroom Commercial Property for sale in Passy, Paris-Ile-de-France

An opportunity to purchase a prestigious 19th Century Parisian residence in a highly desirable location in the Sixteenth Arrondissement on the Avenue Victor Hugo. The residence currently contain......

50,000,000 EURREF: 186427

Absolutely exceptional 16 bedroom luxury villa nestling in nearly 1.5 hectares of beautiful landscaped gardens with expansive pool, while enjoying panoramic sea views from the heights of Cannes. ......

50,000,000 EURREF: 252566

Enjoying exceptional sea and mountain views from its privileged location in Saint Jean Cap Ferret, is this absolutely outstanding 7 bedroom luxury villa nestling in over one acre of beautiful lands......

45,000,000 EURREF: 253004

This magnificent luxury real estate complex is located in the heart of the famous Cap d'Antibes and extends over more than a hectare of land. Completely renovated with high-quality materials, it ......

45,000,000 EURREF: 248849

- 10 bedroom House for sale in Palais Bourbon, Paris-Ile-de-France

Superb 18th Century house located in one of Paris most sought after areas. This private mansion is partly listed ISMH, and has a vast living area of over 2,500m2 with beautiful period features. ......

42,000,000 EURREF: 195775

- 50 bedroom Hotel for sale in Elysee, Paris-Ile-de-France

A stylish Art Deco luxury Hotel in the heart of Paris, very close to the Champs Elysees and yet providing a haven of tranquility and calm. Please enquire for further details.......

40,000,000 EURREF: 187224

Unique opportunity to acquire an exceptional 5 bedroom luxury villa with separate one bedroom studio, nestling in over an acre of beautiful landscaped gardens with expansive pool, while enjoying br......

37,200,000 EURREF: 248380

45 bedroom Hotel for sale in Paris, Paris-Ile-de-France

In the heart of the city of Paris this 4 Star Luxury Hotel comes with over 45 guest rooms and suite, meeting rooms, charming SPA and wellness centre as well as an exclusive restaurant. There are w......

36,000,000 EURREF: 209930

6 bedroom Villa for sale with sea and panoramic views in Saint Jean Cap Ferrat, Cote d'Azur French Riviera

Luxurious 6 bedroom villa, which is ideally situated right alongside the beach in Saint Jean Cap Ferrat. This stunning waterfront property, with direct beach access and breathtaking views, has a t......

35,000,000 EURREF: 240708

Grand, spacious and immaculately presented throughout, this unique 7 bedroom villa is ideally situated in a quiet setting on the western slope of Cap d'Antibes, and offers exceptional panoramic sea......

35,000,000 EURREF: 247059

Exceptional luxury ski chalet in the heart of Courchevel 1850, within a prestigious ski in - ski out hotel development. The private and individual property is spread over 4 levels, with generous ......

32,900,000 EURREF: 251390

5 bedroom Farmhouse for sale with countryside view in Saint Emilion, Aquitaine

Superb wine producing estate, set within over 20 hectares of land. Living accommodation is within a charming, fully renovated 19th Century castle with an indoor swimming pool and surrounded by a l......

31,500,000 EURREF: 176088

7 bedroom Villa for sale with sea and panoramic views in Cannes, Cote d'Azur French Riviera

Luxury Belle Epoque villa which has been totally restored and enlarged, now offering 1300m2 of sumptuous living space. The rooms are generous with high ceilings, overlooking beautifully landscaped ......

30,000,000 EURREF: 179834

Absolutely stunning 4 storey, 7 bedroom luxurious villa set in beautiful gardens with pool, while enjoying panoramic sea views from its prestigious location near the beach and all amenities in Cann......

29,650,000 EURREF: 252983

8 bedroom Villa for sale with sea and panoramic views in Cannes, Cote d'Azur French Riviera

With simply stunning sea and harbour views, this prestigious 8 bedroom villa, with staff accommodation, is ideally situated right in the heart of the historic district of Cannes. With panoramic vi......

29,650,000 EURREF: 236109

Absolutely exceptional 3 storey, 7 bedroom luxurious villa with pool and garden, enjoying panoramic sea views from its prestigious and secure location near the beach and all amenities in Cannes. I......

29,600,000 EURREF: 251184

Exclusive 8 bedroom Villa for sale with sea view in Cannes, Cote d'Azur French Riviera

With stunning sea views, this grand, unique, spacious and totally refurbished 8 bedroom villa is ideally situated in a quiet setting right in the heart of the historical part of Cannes. With a vas......

29,600,000 EURREF: 235668

Immaculate 17 bedroom Villa for sale with panoramic view in Les Adrets de l'Esterel, Cote d'Azur French Riviera

Simply stunning and exceptional estate which is ideally situated in an elevated position within a massive 30 hectare plot, set on the heights of the Esterel, in a quiet position nestled between Les......

Enquire For PriceREF: 216478

Luxurious newly built 4 bedroom villa with apartment, ideally situated within a quiet and dominant/elevated setting in Le Cannet and with simply stunning panoramic sea views. This contemporary vil......

28,000,000 EURREF: 242899

Absolutely outstanding historical Bastide nestling in nearly 6.5 acres of glorious land with beautiful gardens, expansive pool, tennis court and various forms of accommodation, while enjoying panor......

27,900,000 EURREF: 252798

Absolutely exceptional 9 bedroom luxury villa with separate 2 bedroom guest house, nestling in over one acre of beautiful landscaped gardens with expansive pool, while enjoying uninterrupted sea vi......

25,000,000 EURREF: 248838

Absolutely magnificent 7 bedroom luxury villa nestling in over one acre of beautiful landscaped gardens with pool and mooring with private beach access, while enjoying breathtaking sea views from i......

25,000,000 EURREF: 252971

Set within 1,200m2 of manicured gardens and with breathtaking sea views, this superb grand and spacious 7 bedroom residence, with a spacious living area of over 550m2, is set out over 4 floors, whi......

25,000,000 EURREF: 247779

A unique opportunity to acquire an exceptional prestigious 9 bedroom luxury villa with separate 2 bedroom guest house, nestling in over an acre of beautiful landscaped gardens with expansive pool, ......

25,000,000 EURREF: 248387

10 bedroom Villa for sale with sea and panoramic views in Cap d'Antibes, Cote d'Azur French Riviera

Exclusive three floor luxury villa in a highly sought-after situation on the west side of Cap d'Antibes within a walking distance of beaches and the famous hotel du Cap Eden Roc. This elegant and......

Enquire For PriceREF: 235189

20 bedroom Hotel for sale in Passy, Paris-Ile-de-France

This elegant 5 star hotel in the 16th Arrondissement of Paris is an outstanding example of a famous architect's design with its 100m facade and beautiful, spacious interiors. The luxury property i......

24,150,000 EURREF: 183782

Unique opportunity to acquire a rare historical 4 bedroom villa with guest house, set in 3/4 acre of beautiful landscaped gardens with pool, while enjoying panoramic sea views from its prestigious ......

24,000,000 EURREF: 252802

Grand 6 bedroom House for sale in Passy, Paris-Ile-de-France

Situated in the highly desirable 16th arrondissement, this magnificent private mansion, with a total living area of 1,000m2 is set within 800m2 of landscaped grounds. The property features exce......

Enquire For PriceREF: 236586

Immaculate 7 bedroom Villa for sale with panoramic view and sea view views in Villefranche sur Mer, Cote d'Azur French Riviera

In pristine condition throughout, this superb 7 bedroom home offers stunning bird's eye views of the bay of Villefranche and Cap Ferrat. Set in an exceptional private setting and with a rare timel......

Enquire For PriceREF: 245138

Absolutely exceptional 7 bedroom luxury villa nestling in nearly 2 acres of glorious landscaped gardens with expansive pool, while enjoying breathtaking sea views from its elevated location in the ......

22,000,000 EURREF: 251294

30 bedroom Castle for sale, Dordogne, Aquitaine

Unique and superb French castle of the XIIe and XVe centuries, classified an historic monument. Surrounded by 198 hectares of grounds, it has been renovated carefully during the last 10 years and i......

21,000,000 EURREF: 239682

7 bedroom Villa for sale with countryside view in Saint Tropez, Cote d'Azur French Riviera

Grand and spacious recently built 5 bedroom villa, situated within a quiet area with stunning views overlooking the sea and the Gulf of Saint Tropez. With a total living area of 330m2, which is se......

Enquire For PriceREF: 203027

Outstanding 590m2 bastide, the epitome of noblesse and refinement, crafted to perfection by a renowned local architect and set in almost 2 acres of landscaped grounds. The interior is spacious an......

19,900,000 EURREF: 251701

6 bedroom Villa for sale with sea and panoramic views in Cannes, Cote d'Azur French Riviera

With simply stunning views over the Bay of Cannes from the Islands to the Esterel Mountains, this superb 6 bedroom villa is situated within a truly exceptional setting right in the heart of one of ......

19,850,000 EURREF: 239813

Two absolutely exceptional luxury villas set in nearly an acre of beautiful landscaped gardens with pool, located in the private and sought-after domain of La Garoupe in Cap d'Antibes. This magni......

19,000,000 EURREF: 249231

Absolutely exceptional 6 bedroom modern and luxurious villa nestling in over one acre of beautiful landscaped gardens with expansive pool, while enjoying panoramic views from its prestigious locati......

18,900,000 EURREF: 252302

Absolutely exceptional 3 storey, 8 bedroom luxury villa nestling in over half an acre of beautiful landscaped gardens with pool, while enjoying breathtaking sea views from its sought after location......

18,500,000 EURREF: 252985

Absolutely outstanding 3 storey, 4 bedroom luxury villa with studio, set in nearly half an acre of beautiful landscaped gardens with expansive pool, while enjoying panoramic sea views from its peac......

18,000,000 EURREF: 251483

Exclusive 7 bedroom Villa for sale with sea view in Grasse, Cote d'Azur French Riviera

Magnificent 7 bedroom villa, with a vast total living area of 919m2, ideally situated within a highly sought after residential area of Grasse. Steeped in history, this superb property is set withi......

Enquire For PriceREF: 233977

Stylishly renovated Contemporary property completely renovated south-west facing enjoying a sea view located in a quiet and residential area of Cap-Ferrat near the Grand Hotel. In a flat garden w......

17,850,000 EURREF: 245758

In excellent condition is this exceptional, luxuriously renovated 3 storey, 4 bedroom villa nestling in nearly half an acre of glorious mature gardens with pool, while enjoying breathtaking sea vie......

17,850,000 EURREF: 250287

Remarkable 6 bedroom Belle Epoque style property, which has been recently beautifully renovated, situated in a quiet elevated position in Villefranche sur Mer and with breathtaking sea views overlo......

17,000,000 EURREF: 247147

Superb and spacious luxury property in a gated estate, within walking distance of the cenre of Saint-Tropez, offering panoramic views of the sea and the village. Located in a quiet area, facing w......

16,500,000 EURREF: 253110

8 bedroom Villa for sale with sea view in Mougins, Cote d'Azur French Riviera

Gorgeous and substantial villa with a vast living area of 650m2, located in the historic centre of the old village of Mougins, in the heart of the classified area. This outstanding stone built hom......

16,500,000 EURREF: 187355

Nestling in over 7 acres of glorious land with beautiful gardens, trees and expansive pool, is this magnificent property enjoying breathtaking sea and mountain views from its elevated location abov......

16,000,000 EURREF: 252996

9 bedroom Villa for sale with sea view in Cannes, Cote d'Azur French Riviera

PRICE REDUCED - A stylish classical property dating back to 1865 and situated in a historic quarter of Cannes, built for English nobility who have been attracted to this enviable location of the ......

16,000,000 EURREF: 179771

Luxury 5 bedroom Villa for sale with sea view in Saint Tropez, Cote d'Azur French Riviera

Magnificent and luxurious 5 bedroom property, which is ideally nestled close to the charming village of Saint Tropez and the famous beaches of Pampelonne. This sumptuous residence is a new constr......

15,900,000 EURREF: 243486

Close to the magnificent chateau of Vaux le Vicomte and less than an hour from Paris, a superb 70 hectare estate with a beautiful 18th century chateau nestled in the first English park in France. ......

Enquire For PriceREF: 248820

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French Property

Full Personal Service

Entire Market

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Buying French Property

Where to buy property in France

Income from your French property

1. Signing the Agreement (Compris)

2. Paying the Deposit

3. On Completion

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