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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7 bedroom Chateau for sale with countryside view in Maurens, Midi-Pyrenees

Charming and sympathetically restored character property set in over 11 acres of beautiful Gers countryside, built in the typical white stone of the region, and totally restored in 2007- 2008. On......

2,100,000 EURREF: 235506

Immaculate 3 bedroom Apartment for sale in 1850, Courchevel, Rhone-Alpes

Immaculately presented 3 bedroom apartment located in a quiet area in Courchevel 1850 and in a sought-after residence. With a living area of around 85m2, features include a pleasant living room wi......

2,100,000 EURREF: 242055

Character 12 bedroom Chateau for sale with countryside view in Beauville, Aquitaine

Grand, spacious and beautifully presented 12 bedroom Medieval chateau, which is ideally situated within a quiet setting on the hills of Beauville, set on a large 47,700m2 with stunning far reaching......

2,100,000 EURREF: 237338

Refurbished 2 bedroom Apartment for sale in Val d'Isere, Rhone-Alpes

Ideally located in the prestigious resort of Val d'Isere, right on the snow front and close to all amenities, this bright 82m2 apartment, which has been tastefully renovated, comprises of: entrance......

2,100,000 EURREF: 244255

Luxury 6 bedroom Chalet for sale in La Tania, Courchevel, Rhone-Alpes

Enjoying wonderful mountain views from its ideal location near the slopes and all amenities in La Tania, is this exceptional 4 storey, 6 bedroom authentic chalet. This luxurious property offers s......

2,100,000 EURREF: 244478

Furnished 2 bedroom Apartment for sale in Courchevel, Rhone-Alpes

Very well located in the centre of Courchevel resort and very close to the ski slopes, this superb apartment, of approximately 86m2, features a spacious balcony, entrance with a guest WC, open plan......

2,100,000 EURREF: 245394

Superb 2 bedroom apartment, which has been completely renovated with high-end services, ideally located in one of the most prestigious residences on the Croisette and just a minute from the beaches......

2,320,000 EURREF: 246487

Delightful stone 4 bedroom property in a lovely South-facing situation with unobstructed panoramic views of the surrounding hills. The beautifully presented stone villa comes with a surface area......

2,100,000 EURREF: 252659

Luxuriously renovated 5 bedroom house full of charm and character, nestling in one acre of beautiful landscaped gardens with pool, located in Chavanod near Annecy. This splendid home of 298.81 m......

2,100,000 EURREF: 252444

Beautifully renovated 3 storey, 6 bedroom historical stone bastide, nestling in nearly one acre of glorious landscaped gardens with pool, while enjoying far reaching countryside views from its loca......

2,100,000 EURREF: 253005

Full of charm and character is this beautifully renovated 6 bedroom house nestling in over half an acre of glorious gardens with pool and fruit trees, while enjoying panoramic sea views from its pe......

2,095,000 EURREF: 251909

Luxury 1 bedroom Apartment for sale with panoramic view and sea view views in Le Cannet, Cote d'Azur French Riviera

Enjoying breathtaking views of the Mediterranean, is this new luxury 4 room apartment with beautiful communal gardens and pool, ideally located near all amenities in Le Cannet, Cannes. Set in a n......

2,055,000 EURREF: 245454

Stylish 4 bedroom Villa for sale with countryside view in Californie, Cannes, Cote d'Azur French Riviera

Situated in a quiet and peaceful setting, this superb 6-room villa has a living area of approximately 200m and is set on a south facing plot of 1,012m2 with a swimming pool. Located in the Cannes ......

2,050,000 EURREF: 244356

Delightful and spacious 5 bedroom Provencal villa in a great location in a gated estate in a residential area of Mougins. The 244m2 property includes a beautiful living room with fireplace, 5 b......

2,050,000 EURREF: 250370

Outstanding 3 bedroom luxury villa set in beautiful landscaped gardens with pool, while enjoying panoramic sea views from its sought after location in Villeneuve Loubet. Discover this exceptional......

2,050,000 EURREF: 252803

Stylishly renovated 6 bedroom luxury Provencal style villa with separate apartment, nestling in over half an acre of beautiful landscaped gardens with pool, ideally located near all amenities in Mo......

2,000,000 EURREF: 251480

Enjoying panoramic sea views from its prestigious location on the Port of Saint-Tropez, is this bright and spacious one bedroom luxury apartment. This superb property is a rare gem. Bathed in natu......

2,000,000 EURREF: 250288

Unique property in a fabulous location on the the quayside of the charming harbour of Mortagne-sur-Gironde, with extensive space and offering an abundance of uses. This former industrial and fl......

2,000,000 EURREF: 250540

Magnificent 15th Century stone property, situated in the Alpes de Haute Provence area and just a few minutes from the medieval town of Manosque, enjoying an idyllic location in a rural and wooded s......

2,000,000 EURREF: 249557

Beautiful 4 bedroom Villa for sale in Mougins, Cote d'Azur French Riviera

Delightful Balinese-inspired villa in a peaceful residential district of Mougins, with swimming pool and an exotic garden. This 200m2 property is in excellent condition and includes a large recep......

2,000,000 EURREF: 219825

Wonderful opportunity to acquire a majestic 4 storey Chateau with guest house, and cottage, nestling in 8 hectares of glorious land with gardens, two pools, a tennis court, lake and stables, all en......

1,999,900 EURREF: 252570

Magnificent estate of beautiful historical houses nestling in 43 hectares of glorious land with a lake, exquisite gardens, pools and outbuildings, enjoying far reaching countryside views from its p......

1,999,500 EURREF: 251200

Delightful vineyard estate in the area of Carcassonne with a main residence, 3 renovated houses, another to restore, empty wine cellars convertible into a reception room, swimming pool and spa, set......

1,999,000 EURREF: 251715

This 72m2,3-room apartment, located in a prestigious residence on the Croisette, offers an elegant living environment with stunning sea views. The spacious and bright living room opens onto a bal......

1,995,000 EURREF: 251170

Enjoying scenic hill views from its elevated location in a sought-after area of California, Cannes, is this luxurious 4 bedroom villa with pool and garden. Situated not far from the town centre, t......

1,995,000 EURREF: 251324

Luxuriously renovated 3 storey, 4 bedroom town house with pool and garden, ideally located near the beach and all amenities in a peaceful area of Cannes. Situated just a 10 minute walk from La Cro......

1,995,000 EURREF: 251297

A gem of a property is this stunning one bedroom luxury apartment, enjoying breathtaking sea views from its prestigious location near the beach and all amenities in Cannes Croisette. This 71.3 m2......

1,995,000 EURREF: 250905

Enjoying wonderful mountain views from its idyllic ski in/ski out location in the heart of Courchevel 1850, is this spacious and bright 2 bedroom apartment. This 83.22m2 property offers the perfec......

1,995,000 EURREF: 252462

Ideally located near all amenities in Cannes, is this stylish 3 bedroom apartment with communal pool, enjoying breathtaking sea views from its prestigious setting. This spacious property features......

1,995,000 EURREF: 253241

Income Producing 15 bedroom House for sale with panoramic view in Saint Gervais les Bains, Rhone-Alpes

Charming 15 bedroom farmhouse, with its origins dating from 1832, which is currently used as a rural gite and holiday cottage. The property has a total floor area of approximately 861m2, includin......

1,995,000 EURREF: 243703

Nestled in a quiet setting right in the heart of nature and out of sight, this Provençal inspired villa offers magnificent unobstructed views over the vineyards, hills and surrounding nature. In ......

1,995,000 EURREF: 249270

Superb 4 bedroom property, which is beautifully nestled in the hills above the town of Vence, within a highly sought-after residential area, in a prime location with breathtaking views of the Medit......

1,995,000 EURREF: 250142

Full of charm and character is this beautiful old olive mill with a 3 bedroom house, 2 bedroom apartment and 2 bedroom guest house, all nestling in nearly 2 acres of beautiful landscaped gardens wi......

2,300,000 EURREF: 249085

Very pleasant villa, entirely renovated, located near the old village of Valbonne, in a green setting with over 5 acres of land and beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding hills. This genero......

1,990,000 EURREF: 248959

Beautifully renovated 7 bedroom French Chateau with charming 3 bedroom guest house, nestling in 35 hectares of glorious land with gardens, expansive pool and trees, enjoying far reaching countrysid......

1,990,000 EURREF: 248630

Enjoying far reaching panoramic views of the Tuscan-style hills stretching down to the sea from its elevated location near Chateauneuf Grasse, is this charming 5 bedroom Provencal style house set i......

1,990,000 EURREF: 248032

Impressive, fully renovated apartment with top-of-the-range features in a luxury residence on the Pointe Croisette. The 95m2 flat comes with a large living room, a fully equipped open-plan kitche......

1,990,000 EURREF: 248348

In excellent condition is this superb 4 bedroom luxury villa in a private estate close to the beaches of La Nartelle, with lovely outdoor space and stunning views. This South-facing 238m2 propert......

1,990,000 EURREF: 247462

Quiet 5 bedroom Villa for sale with countryside view in Le Cannet, Cote d'Azur French Riviera

Ideally located in absolute calm in Le Cannet, yet just a few minutes from the Croisette, this 19th Century villa has been beautifully renovated with very high quality services, materials and finis......

1,850,000 EURREF: 243611

Character 5 bedroom Chalet for sale in Saint Gervais Les Bains, Rhone-Alpes

Authentic 5 bedroom ski chalet, ideally situated in a quiet setting on the heights of the village of Saint Gervais Mont Blanc, on the Bettex hillside and with breathtaking 180 degree views. Built......

1,990,000 EURREF: 244389

Furnished 2 bedroom Apartment for sale with sea view in La Croisette, Cannes, Cote d'Azur French Riviera

Bright and beautifully presented 2 bedroom apartment, situated within a small secure luxury residence in the La Croisette area of Cannes, at Port Canto and close to shops, restaurants and beaches. ......

1,990,000 EURREF: 244979

Modern 5 bedroom Chalet for sale in Combloux, Megeve, Rhone-Alpes

Ideally located near the slopes and all amenities in Combloux, is this magnificent new 3 storey, 5 bedroom luxury chalet enjoying wonderful mountain views. Situated between Demi-Quartier and Combl......

1,990,000 EURREF: 245508

Renovated 3 bedroom Apartment for sale in Palm Beach, Cannes, Cote d'Azur French Riviera

Ideally located near the beach and all amenities in the prestigious Pointe du Palm Beach, Cannes, is this beautifully renovated 3 bedroom apartment with garden. This spacious and bright property i......

1,990,000 EURREF: 240968

Unique opportunity to acquire a spacious and bright 5 bedroom luxury apartment with communal pool, tennis court and gardens, enjoying panoramic sea views from its sought after location in Nice. Si......

1,990,000 EURREF: 252799

Stylishly renovated 4 bedroom luxury villa set in beautiful landscaped mature garden with pool, ideally located in a peaceful area near all amenities in Cannes. Situated at the end of a cul-de-sac......

1,990,000 EURREF: 253084

Elegant Eighteenth Century Chateau in an enviable location less than 10km from the Atlantic Coast beaches in Charente-Maritime, close to shops and Royan's famous golf course. This magnificent and......

1,990,000 EURREF: 252379

Ideally located near the golf course and all amenities in Chateauneuf, is this charming 5 bedroom villa nestling in over one acre of beautiful landscaped gardens with pool. Situated near Valbonne......

1,990,000 EURREF: 252726

Rare opportunity to acquire a luxuriously renovated 3 bedroom apartment with lush communal gardens, enjoying panoramic sea views from its prestigious location near all amenities in Cannes. Fully ......

1,990,000 EURREF: 252735

Stylishly renovated 4 bedroom architect designed villa set in beautiful landscaped gardens with pool, while enjoying panoramic sea views from its prestigious location in Golfe Juan. Built by Chri......

1,990,000 EURREF: 252046

In excellent condition is this bright and spacious 2 bedroom luxury apartment with communal garden, pool and tennis court, enjoying breathtaking sea views from its sought after location in Californ......

1,990,000 EURREF: 252143

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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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