Prestige Property Group

French Property

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Over 20 years experience in the area.

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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.

2469 properties

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Bright and welcoming 6 bedroom villa, with an immaculate and spacious living area of 230m2, nestled on a beautiful 1,318m2 plot with a swimming pool and stunning panoramic sea views. With its 6 be......

5,990,000 EURREF: 246992

Exceptional new 4 storey, 5 bedroom luxury chalet enjoying scenic mountain views from its sought after location near the slopes, golf course and all amenities in the Mont D'Arbois area of Megeve. ......

5,980,000 EURREF: 253763

Enjoying panoramic sea views across the beautiful landscaped gardens, is this exceptional 6 bedroom luxury Provencal style villa with separate apartment and expansive pool, ideally located in the p......

5,980,000 EURREF: 253150

Magnificent 6 bedroom Provencal villa nestling in over half an acre of glorious landscaped gardens with expansive pool, while enjoying panoramic sea views from its location in Saint Paul de Vence. ......

5,980,000 EURREF: 252979

Outstanding 5 bedroom new luxury villa nestling in one acre of glorious landscaped gardens with amazing infinity pool, while enjoying uninterrupted panoramic sea views from its sought after locatio......

5,975,000 EURREF: 253895

Ideally located near the beach and all amenities in Eze, is this spacious 3 storey, 5 bedroom luxury villa with pool and garden, enjoying breathtaking sea views from its sought after setting. Onl......

5,950,000 EURREF: 253003

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

Modern, bright and spacious 5 bedroom villa, which is ideally situated in an elevated setting with stunning panoramic views over Eze bay, just 10 minutes from Monaco and within walking distance to ......

5,950,000 EURREF: 240595

Beautiful maison de maitre in Grasse, the perfume capital in the heart of Provence, w ith an estate of over 16 acres including a century-old olive grove, mature gardens and lovely swimming pool. ......

5,950,000 EURREF: 250855

In excellent condition is this absolutely outstanding 6 bedroom luxury villa set in beautiful landscaped gardens with pool, while enjoying panoramic sea views from its ideal location near the beach......

5,900,000 EURREF: 251134

Superb totally refurbished 6 bedroom villa, which is set out over several floors, located in a quiet setting in Antibes and enjoying beautiful views towards the sea. Set on a flat manicured garden......

6,360,000 EURREF: 247153

A unique opportunity to acquire an exceptional 6 bedroom luxury villa nestling in over one hectare of beautiful landscaped gardens with two pools, while enjoying breathtaking sea views from its pre......

5,900,000 EURREF: 252549

Superb and spacious Eighteenth Century mas in a gated estate with tennis court, yet close to amenities in Mougins. This highly desirable Provencal property comes with 545m2 of living space combin......

5,900,000 EURREF: 251341

Stunning and completely refurbished 6 bedroom villa, ideally situated within one of the most exclusive areas of Mougins, in a very residential estate with beautiful views of the surrounding green h......

5,900,000 EURREF: 248798

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

Prestigious villa set within a dominating position with super sea views towards the sea, Cannes, Lerins Islands and the bay of La Napoule. Located just a short walk to the Old Village and in one of......

5,900,000 EURREF: 187186

Historical 8 bedroom Chateau for sale with countryside view in Bournezeau, Pays-de-la-Loire

A unique opportunity to acquire an exceptional 8 bedroom 19th century Florentine style French Chateau with chapel, renovated outbuildings with accommodation and huge conservatory offering a great d......

5,830,000 EURREF: 238677

Immaculate, bright and spacious 3 bedroom villa, which is ideally located in a quiet setting in Roquebrune Cap Martin, in a residential district close to the Principality of Monaco. This newly bui......

5,800,000 EURREF: 247605

Stylish 5 bedroom Villa for sale with panoramic view in Cannes, Cote d'Azur French Riviera

Enjoying one of the most outstanding views of the bay of Cannes, is this exceptional 5 bedroom luxury villa with separate apartment and beautiful landscaped garden with pool, ideally located in a s......

5,800,000 EURREF: 240075

Waterfront 8 bedroom Property for sale with panoramic view and sea view views in Saint Raphael, Cote d'Azur French Riviera

Enjoying breathtaking sea views from its sought after frontline location near the heart of Saint Raphael, is this exceptional 8 bedroom luxury villa with separate apartment, nestling in over half a......

5,750,000 EURREF: 245622

- 10 bedroom Farmhouse for sale in Megeve, Rhone-Alpes

Just 5 minutes from Megeve, exceptional property set in 3,500 sqm of land with an 1869 farm entirely renovated with high standards, materials and amenities and respect for the Alpine tradition. ......

Enquire For PriceREF: 163377

Modern 4 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......

5,700,000 EURREF: 239235

Immaculate 5 bedroom Villa for sale with panoramic view in Terre Blanche, Saint Paul en Foret, Cote d'Azur French Riviera

In immaculate condition throughout, this sumptuous 5 bedroom home is ideally located in the private and highly sought-after estate of "Terre Blanche," which is a secure 24/7 guated domain known for......

5,700,000 EURREF: 245395

Located on the western slope of the highly sought-after Cap d'Antibes, this unique 280 m2 apartment offers an exceptional panoramic views to the sea. Fully renovated by a renowned architect from......

5,650,000 EURREF: 251702

Rare opportunity to acquire an exceptional 4 bedroom luxury villa with pool and mooring, enjoying panoramic sea views from its idyllic waterfront location in a secure, sought-after area of Port-Gri......

5,600,000 EURREF: 253384

Luxury 7 bedroom Penthouse for sale with sea view in Cannes, Cote d'Azur French Riviera

Immaculately presented 6 bedroom penthouse apartment, which is ideally situated within a luxurious residence with a swimming pool, located in an exclusive area in Cannes and with lovely sea views. ......

Enquire For PriceREF: 240031

Historical 10 bedroom Chateau for sale in Nord, Nord-Pas-de-Calais

Large French Chateau located close to the Belgian border, with excellent European connections. This monumental chateau dating back to the 18th & 19th Centuries is registered as a Historic Monument......

5,500,000 EURREF: 211336

Fabulous contemporary property offering a luxurious living environment with a total living area of 562 m2, located in the renowned Domaine de Pimeau on the heights of Antibes. The main house, cov......

5,500,000 EURREF: 253582

Elegant and spacious 6 bedroom villa, which is ideally situated right in the heart of the sought after residential district of Le Cannet, with a bright and spacious living area of over 400m2 with b......

5,500,000 EURREF: 247450

Enjoying panoramic sea views from the roof terrace, is this exceptional modern 3 bedroom luxury villa with garden, located near all amenities in Roquebrune Cap Martin. This superb property is situ......

5,500,000 EURREF: 245821

Bright 4 bedroom Villa for sale with sea view in Croix des Gardes, Cannes, Cote d'Azur French Riviera

Modern, bright and spacious architect designed 3 bedroom villa, which is ideally situated within a quiet and private setting in Croix des Gardes, set on a manicured plot of 1,833m2 with a swimming ......

5,500,000 EURREF: 240517

Spacious 8 bedroom Chalet for sale with panoramic view in Auron, Cote d'Azur French Riviera

Grand and spacious 8 bedroom ski chalet, which is ideally situated in a highly sought-after setting right in the heart of the Auron ski resort. This charming and luxurious ski chalet boasts extens......

5,500,000 EURREF: 243711

Ideally located near the beach and all amenities in a peaceful area of Saint Tropez is this exceptional modern 4 bedroom luxury villa set in beautiful mature gardens with pool, while enjoying panor......

5,500,000 EURREF: 251201

Fabulous and spacious 6 bedroom villa in a quiet and private setting overlooking the very picturesque village of Cabris. The 483m2 property includes a large kitchen opening onto a huge terrace,......

5,500,000 EURREF: 253446

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

Exceptional contemporary and luxurious 5 bedroom villa with amazing infinity pool, nestling in nearly an acre of glorious landscaped gardens while enjoying breathtaking sea views from its idyllic e......

5,490,000 EURREF: 228499

In excellent condition is this prestigious 4 bedroom house with 2 bedroom annex, nestling in nearly 1 3/4 acres of beautiful mature gardens with expansive pool, while enjoying scenic countryside vi......

5,490,000 EURREF: 253316

Absolutely outstanding 4 bedroom luxury villa with apartment nestling in nearly 2 acres of beautiful landscaped gardens with expansive pool, while enjoying panoramic countryside views from its secu......

5,480,000 EURREF: 251195

Wonderful opportunity to acquire a luxurious new 3 storey, 6 bedroom chalet with pool, enjoying scenic mountain and river views from its location near the slopes and all amenities in Meribel. Sit......

5,450,000 EURREF: 254068

Absolutely exceptional 6 bedroom luxuriously renovated villa set in beautiful lush gardens with pool, while enjoying breathtaking sea views from its location in one of Cannes' most sought-after pri......

5,450,000 EURREF: 253581

Excellent opportunity to create a dream home in Saint-Tropez, within walking distance of the centre and the beach and with unobstructed views with glimpses of the sea. This nicely situated projec......

5,400,000 EURREF: 250411

Superb and stylish modern property, tastefully refurbished, set in landscaped grounds with swimming pool. The 318m2 villa comes with on the ground floor: an entrance hall, a reception room with ......

5,395,000 EURREF: 252243

Absolutely exceptional 6 bedroom luxuriously renovated villa with studio, nestling in over half an acre of beautiful landscaped gardens with expansive pool, ideally located near the beach and all a......

5,300,000 EURREF: 252964

Unique opportunity to acquire two luxuriously renovated fully furnished apartments located near all amenities in Nice. Situated on Cours Saleya, these two stunning properties with a total surface ......

5,250,000 EURREF: 250433

Luxuriously renovated 5 bedroom contemporary villa nestling in over half an acre of beautiful mature gardens with pool, while enjoying panoramic sea views from its prestigious location in the heart......

5,250,000 EURREF: 253188

Elegant 8 bedroom Manor House for sale in Pers Jussy, Rhone-Alpes

Full of character and charm, this stunning 8 bedroom home is ideally situated in a quiet setting in Pers Jussy and just 20 minutes from the centre of Geneva. This stunning property with historical......

5,250,000 EURREF: 243634

Excellent opportunity to purchase 2 sumptuous apartments, which are ideally situated within one of the finest addresses in Nice and only a few steps from the waterfront. Entirely restored and lux......

5,250,000 EURREF: 247509

Luxuriously renovated 3 storey, 5 bedroom villa with separate 2 bedroom apartment and pool, enjoying panoramic views from its ideal location near the beach and all amenities in the heart of Saint J......

5,200,000 EURREF: 248815

Outstanding 5 bedroom villa combining elegance and eco-responsible innovation in a private residential area of Antibes, in a dominant position set in over an acre of landscaped gardens. Between 2......

5,200,000 EURREF: 253335

Magnificent and recently renovated Provencal villa, situated in an idyllic setting on the eastern slope of Cap d'Antibes, close to the beaches and offering breathtaking views of the sea and the old......

5,200,000 EURREF: 248589

4 bedroom Villa for sale with panoramic view with Income Potential in Annonciade, Menton, Cote d'Azur French Riviera

Delightful and intriguing property with huge potential set in 10 acres of land in the area of Menton Annonciade, with stunning views across the hills to the sea. Set in a dominant East-facing po......

5,200,000 EURREF: 240475

Luxuriously renovated exceptional 8 bedroom fully furnished house with separate apartment, nestling in over 36 acres of glorious land with beautiful gardens and expansive pool, while enjoying far r......

5,200,000 EURREF: 254072

Luxuriously renovated 3 bedroom apartment enjoying panoramic sea views from its ideal location near the beach and all amenities in a prestigious area of Nice. Set in the heart of a sumptuous Bell......

5,080,000 EURREF: 253242

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French Property

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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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