Choose the right property

Finding a property in France is probably the easiest bit as there are so many beautiful homes to choose from. With these tips and the help of your local Relationship Manager in France, finding and buying your perfect French home will now be even easier.

Tips for finding your home

• Set yourself a realistic budget and stick to it. It's easy to get carried away by properties beyond your price range, but you'll only torture yourself by looking round them. We can help you work out an affordable budget before you start your search.
• Choose your agent wisely. Many French estate agents offer services in English, but always make sure that they are a member of a regulated professional association such as FNAIM, SNPI or UNPI. Also, look for agents who are members of organisations like the Federation of Overseas Property Developers, Agents and Consultants - see www.fopdac.com or www.aipp.org.uk for more information.
• Use the internet. There are many good sites offering property for sale in France, so you can get a good idea of what's available and book appointments to view before you travel. Check out www.homesoverseas.co.uk.
• Visit one of the many overseas property exhibitions in the UK - you'll be able to meet agents and developers and make lots of useful contacts.
• Take your time. Visit the areas and properties you like more than once, talk to the locals and really think about whether you'd be happy spending long periods of time there.
• Check that your view will still be there next year. You can find out if any planning applications have been made in the area by visiting the local 'mairie' (town hall). Your notaire can also help with this.
• If you're planning on renting your home when you're not there, do some research to see how much similar properties are being rented for and think about whether you'd like an agent to look after it for you. Take a look at www.ownersdirect.co.uk and www.holiday-rentals.co.uk to get a good idea of price.
• Think about the practicalities of getting and living there, like how far it is from the airport or train station. Can you get there all year round? Will access to your home be affected by adverse weather, like snow? How far is it to the nearest shop or supermarket? How close to emergency services and healthcare are you? This is especially important in rural areas. Think about how far away the doctor, hospital, police and fire stations are. If the nearest fire station is over 45 minutes away, would it worry you?

Disclaimer

Barclays is not responsible for the accuracy or content of websites of other providers which may have links from this website. In creating hypertext links to any other website, Barclays is not recommending that website or giving any assurances as to its standing.