France

If you are looking for all the bits of Europe contained in one country, you should look no further than France. There is no issue with travel, it has as much history, culture, and architecture, as any other country in Europe. If you add that to France’s fantastic range of climate, from skiing on the Alps to lazing on the beaches of the Mediterranean, it could not be more diverse.

Although France has been targeting by British investors for many years, it is clear that provided you are willing to do a little research, there are still some amazing properties at reasonable prices.

Where in France

France is basically split into main regions:- the traditional, rural, wine producing northwest, which includes the likes of Normandy and Brittany, or the beautiful Mediterranean beaches of the millionaires playground in the south, which would include the likes of the Cote d’Azur. Ultimately there are no restrictions to where you can buy, but here are few things to bear in mind:-

Paris, as you would expect, is the country’s centre of the business and government, but also has a vibrant cultural climate with exquisite museums and theatres. The downside to having all of this on your doorstep, and the increased interest in Disneyland Paris (which is about 30 minutes away by train), is the price. If you can find a centrally based property, the rental opportunities are vast.

Mainland France, taking into the central and southwest regions, is still one of the areas targeted for investment. In areas such as the Loire, Limousin, and the Dordogne, with its vineyards, miles of beautiful landscapes, and exquisite cottages, makes it an ideal region for not just an investment opportunity, but as a lifestyle choice.

The Cote d’Azur is the mecca for sophisticated living in the south of France. If your ideal is to be sitting in a world class restaurant, looking over a marina full of millionaire’s yachts, with the back drop of the sun-kissed Mediterranean, sipping a glass of the local, you need look no further.

Buying in France

Even though geographically the UK and France are neighbours, don’t be fooled onto thinking the house buying process is the same.

The first main difference is the use of the notary. This is not optional and acts for the state not for buyer and vendor. The notary will prepare the initial contract, called ‘the compromis de vente’. All parties are required to sign this and a 10% deposit is usually required. After about 10-12 weeks (when searches etc are carried out) a final contract, ‘the acte de vente‘, is signed in front of the notary, all fees and taxes are paid, and the deed of sale is sent to the Land Registry.

Living in France

If you want to visit France, you need must have a 10 year passport, and as members of the EU, you don’t require a work permit or visa. Should you wish to take up residency, ‘the carte de sejour’ document is no longer required, but it could be a useful form of identification.

Although the French legal system has made great strides, it would advisable to retain the services of an English speaking lawyer. Apart from the legal issues, France still has a complicated tax system. Advice must be taken regarding the amount of tax that may be payable, as this could effect any potential return on investment properties.