Prestige Property Group

French Property

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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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Character 7 bedroom Villa for sale with sea view and panoramic view views in Saint Jean Cap Ferrat, Cote d'Azur French Riviera

Grand and spacious 7 bedroom villa, which was built in 1931 for Louis Le Sidaner, who was the son of the post-impressionist painter Henri Le Sidaner. Built based on the plans of the Grasse archite......

15,500,000 EURREF: 245136

Exceptional opportunity to purchase 2 adjoining properties, which offer unmatched potential, situated within one of the most prestigious and highly sought after neighbourhoods of Saint-Tropez. Wi......

15,158,000 EURREF: 246986

Outstanding luxury property set in an estate of 5 acres in an enviable location with panoramic views. This property, fully renovated in 2022, offers beautiful views of the mountains and the Bay o......

15,000,000 EURREF: 251565

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

Immaculate and entirely renovated 6 bedroom luxurious villa, with a vast and beautifully presented living area of 600m2, set within 5,700m2 of lovely manicured gardens with a swimming pool and vari......

15,000,000 EURREF: 215865

18 bedroom Hotel for sale with countryside view in Cote d'Or, Burgundy

Exceptional abbey palace in Burgundy which has been converted into a hotel facility of 18 bedrooms and suites, fully furnished. Reception and conference rooms, gourmet restaurant with Michelin st......

15,000,000 EURREF: 170436

Contemporary 4 bedroom Villa for sale with sea view in Cannes, Cote d'Azur French Riviera

Exceptional, modern and spacious 4 bedroom villa, with a total beautifully presented living area of 466m2, set within a mature landscaped plot with an infinity swimming pool, located in a dominant ......

15,000,000 EURREF: 232948

Plot of land for sale with countryside view in Le Lavandou, Cote d'Azur French Riviera

Exciting opportunity to purchase a property of 95 hectares, just 16 kilometres from Saint-Tropez, and within the commune of Le Lavandou. Suitable for equestrian purposes, falconry & private hunti......

15,000,000 EURREF: 208934

34 bedroom Chateau for sale, Jura, Franche-Comte

PRICE REDUCED - Only a 45 min drive from Geneva (90 km) or 10 mins by helicopter, circled by a mountain chain allowing the sun to shine over the property, an exceptional and historic chateau and it......

Enquire For PriceREF: 120200

In the heart of the gated and secured Parcs de Mougins estate, a magnificent renovation and extension project for a Couelle-inspired villa. Set in level grounds of 2.5 acres, the property come......

14,950,000 EURREF: 252832

In excellent condition throughout, this sumptuously estate is located in the most prestigious areas of Grasse, set on the "Hill of the Billionaires" which is an excellent neighbourhood. This gran......

14,900,000 EURREF: 251342

Outstanding luxury villa combining modern aesthetics with the charm of Provencal architecture within the sought-after setting of Beaulieu sur-Mer. Clever design has been used to maximum effect wi......

14,900,000 EURREF: 247547

Fabulous single-storey Californian villa in an enviable location just 150 metres on foot from the beaches of Pampelonne, in a private situation offering a luxury lifestyle. The spacious accommoda......

14,840,000 EURREF: 248859

Exceptional 7 bedroom villa, which is ideally situated a few hundred metres from the famous Pampelonne beach in Ramatuelle. This superb property, which stands out with its generous spaces and high......

14,500,000 EURREF: 249294

Beautiful 6 bedroom Villa for sale with sea view in Cap d'Ail, Cote d'Azur French Riviera

Simply stunning Belle Epoque style 3 storey, 6 bedroom villa with a beautifully presented total living area of 400m2, set within wonderful landscaped gardens of 1,600m2 with an infinity swimming po......

14,500,000 EURREF: 238229

Immaculately presented throughout, this superb 9 bedroom property is situated right in the heart of a landscaped park of 11,729m2, and is ideally located right in the heart of the highly sought-aft......

14,500,000 EURREF: 250304

Outstanding opportunity with this sea-front Italianate villa with panoramic Mediterranean views and offering a haven of peace and tranquility, just a few minutes walk from Monaco located between Ca......

14,250,000 EURREF: 250938

Outstanding 6 bedroom villa in an exceptional location on the peninsula, with superb sea views. The 432m2 property sits in a generous level plot of almost 3,000m2 with tropical gardens. The qual......

14,000,000 EURREF: 253224

Renovated 5 bedroom Villa for sale with sea view in Agay, Cote d'Azur French Riviera

Absolutely outstanding 3 bedroom South facing waterfront villa with separate 2 bedroom guest house, pool, beautiful landscaped gardens, sauna, spa and solarium, enjoying breathtaking sea views from......

13,700,000 EURREF: 230052

Approached by a long driveway, this impressive estate offers the utmost in privacy and tranquility in a truly beautiful environment. with almost a thousand square metres of living space, It is c......

13,500,000 EURREF: 252658

7 bedroom House for sale with sea view in Golfe Juan, Cote d'Azur French Riviera

Fabulous new Architect-designed villa in a Californian style, featuring luxury and exclusive living in every aspect. The villa offers 730m2 spread over 3 floors and includes: automatic gate, inte......

13,000,000 EURREF: 197529

Contemporary 5 bedroom Villa for sale with sea view and panoramic view views in Super Cannes, Cannes, Cote d'Azur French Riviera

Visually and architectural beautiful, this stunning newly built villa is ideally situated right in the heart of the most exclusive parts of the Super Cannes area and just a 10 minute drive from Can......

12,900,000 EURREF: 245660

Superb 5 bedroom ski chalet, which is ideally situated within a quiet and highly sought after area in Courchevel 1850 and close to the ski slopes. With a bright and spacious living area of 343.69m......

12,500,000 EURREF: 246007

Rare and historic French chateau set in an estate of over 30 acres, just minutes from picturesque villages and close to the prestigious Terre Blanche Golf Club - one of the finest golf courses in ......

12,500,000 EURREF: 252330

Renovated 6 bedroom Villa for sale with sea view in Grimaud, Cote d'Azur French Riviera

Completely renovated and beautifully presented 6 bedroom waterfront home, ideally situated in a quiet residential area of Grimaud and with exceptional breathtaking sea views and direct sea access t......

Enquire For PriceREF: 213006

Exclusive 3 bedroom Manor House for sale with countryside view in Aix en Provence, Cote d'Azur French Riviera

Absolutely exceptional 3 bedroom luxury Provencal bastide set in lush mature gardens with pool, located near all amenities in Aix en Provence. Surrounded by a veritable postcard of olive groves, v......

Enquire For PriceREF: 242120

Luxurious wine estate, which is ideally located just 10 minutes from Bandol beaches, set on approximately 8 hectares of land, which includes an olive grove in production of approximately 6.5 hectar......

11,950,000 EURREF: 247732

Furnished 5 bedroom Villa for sale with sea view in Californie, Cannes, Cote d'Azur French Riviera

Modern and spacious 5 bedroom villa, which is ideally situated right in the heart of the Californie area of Cannes., in absolute calm only just a few minutes from the Croisette. With stunning vie......

11,900,000 EURREF: 240511

Absolutely exceptional 6 bedroom luxurious villa with separate one bedroom guest house, set in half an acre of beautiful landscaped gardens with pool, while enjoying panoramic views of the Mediterr......

11,900,000 EURREF: 251311

Luxury 9 bedroom Villa for sale with panoramic view and sea view views in Trayas, Theoule sur Mer, Cote d'Azur French Riviera

Situated in a unique waterfront setting in Trayas, closet to Theoule sur Mer and with direct access to the sea. With large volumes spread between 2 main buildings, with the main villa including 4......

11,850,000 EURREF: 245225

Absolutely exceptional 5 bedroom luxurious chalet with indoor pool, enjoying scenic mountain views from its prestigious location in Courchevel. Set in a residential area near the Cospillot ski sl......

11,800,000 EURREF: 249115

New Build 7 bedroom Villa for sale with sea 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......

11,550,000 EURREF: 220658

Outstanding and spacious villa overlooking the Mediterranean and the port of Golfe-Juan within the sought after area of Super Cannes, in a unspoiled setting, close to 13-hectares wooded parkland. ......

11,500,000 EURREF: 249866

Unique property in a fabulous situation with breathtaking views in Villefranche sur Mer. In a dominant hillside location, this generous 270m2 property sits in the heart of a 3,000 m2 mature and t......

11,500,000 EURREF: 250728

Enchanting former mill and wine press dating from the 15th, 17th and 18th centuries set in heart of an estate of almost 4 acres. This outstanding property has been fully restored and comes with ......

11,300,000 EURREF: 251080

Exceptional Provencal property, ideally located in the most sought-after and residential area of Mougins, just few minutes from the old village. This exceptional property of around 540m2 has been......

11,200,000 EURREF: 253225

Rare opportunity to acquire this exceptional and unique 7 bedroom villa with separate guest house, nestling in 1.5 hectares of glorious land with gardens and pool, while enjoying far reaching panor......

10,900,000 EURREF: 252385

Quiet Refurbished , 6 bedroom Villa Ramatuelle French Riviera Countryside View

Absolutely exceptional 6 bedroom Provencal property, which is located in a quiet setting in Ramatuelle, close to the village of Saint Tropez and the beaches of Pampelonne, an ideal place to live a ......

10,800,000 EURREF: 242886

Renovated 6 bedroom Villa for sale with sea view in Sainte Maxime, Cote d'Azur French Riviera

Unique opportunity to acquire an outstanding 6 bedroom waterfront villa with garden, Jacuzzi, direct access to the sea and a large pontoon and mooring, enjoying spectacular sea views from its idyll......

10,780,000 EURREF: 230525

Stylish 6 bedroom Villa for sale with sea view in Cap d'Antibes, Cote d'Azur French Riviera

Grand and spacious 6 bedroom villa, situated in a quiet setting on the western side of the Cap d'Antibes, within a lush landscaped plot of 2,548m2 with a swimming pool and lovely views towards the ......

10,700,000 EURREF: 241065

Absolutely exceptional 4 bedroom architect designed luxury villa with pool and garden, enjoying breathtaking sea views from its prestigious location in Cap d'Ali. This superb property designed by ......

10,600,000 EURREF: 251553

Superb wine estate, situated in quiet setting in Puget Ville, between Toulon and the Gulf of Saint Tropez, with over 50 hectares of land, which includes around 30 hectares of PDO Cotes de Provence ......

10,500,000 EURREF: 247025

Wonderful opportunity to acquire a magnificent estate comprising of a 10 bedroom historical French Chateau, 5 gites, a separate one bedroom house, all nestling in over 16 hectares of glorious land ......

10,500,000 EURREF: 249214

- House for sale in Aix en Provence, Cote d'Azur French Riviera

Aix-en-Provence Property Situated right in the middle of the historic center of Aix-en-Provence, where the demand is high, this property is absolutely unique. The calmness of the place is precious......

Enquire For PriceREF: 160071

Unique opportunity to acquire 3 spacious and luxurious villas nestling in 2.5 acres of glorious gardens with pools, enjoying panoramic views from their South facing location near all amenities in ......

10,200,000 EURREF: 251139

Outstanding 5 bedroom luxury Art Deco villa set in beautiful landscaped gardens with pool, while enjoying breathtaking sea views from its prestigious location in Villefranche sur Mer. Arguably th......

9,990,000 EURREF: 252981

Authentic and luxurious 6 bedroom chalet enjoying scenic mountain views from its presitigious location near the slopes and all amenities in Courchevel. The 270m2 consists of a spacious living roo......

9,950,000 EURREF: 251379

Fabulous and spacious modern villa in Provencal style in a residential area, close to the beaches of Canoubiers and Salins, and less than 20 minutes walk from the heart of Saint-Tropez. Set in a ......

9,950,000 EURREF: 252749

Enjoying far reaching panoramic views from its sought after location in Saint-Paul-de-Vence, is this exquisite 7 bedroom house with separate apartment, nestling in over 2 acres of glorious landscap......

9,950,000 EURREF: 252642

Absolutely exceptional, spacious and imposing 6 bedroom Art Deco style villa nestling in a flat mature landscaped plot of 1,400m2 with a swimming pool, ideally located near the beach and all amenit......

9,900,000 EURREF: 248647

Immaculate 8 bedroom Villa for sale with panoramic view in Saint Tropez, Cote d'Azur French Riviera

9,900,000 EURREF: 238347

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French Property

Full Personal Service

Entire Market

Free Service

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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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