TRACFIN stands for "Traitement du Renseignement et Action Contre les circuits Financiers clandestins. It is contolled by the French Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) that fights against money laundering and terrorist financing.
What does TRACFIN investigate?
TRACFIN’s primary objectives is to analyzes suspicious transaction reports submitted by various professionals and to detect, analyze, and investigate money laundering and terrorist financing.
How does TRACFIN operate?
There are three steps: Collection of Data ; Analysis and (if required) Dissemenation and Action
Professionals in the real estate sector must comply with obligations of vigilance as set out within the framework of the regulations of the French financial intelligence service (TRACFIN).
We must take measures to ensure that our clients are properly identified, and to ensure that transactions are carried out in compliance with anti-money laundering rules.
We must collect all information relating to the purpose and nature of the operation to be carried out and all elements will allow us to have an extensive knowledge of the client.
As such, and before signing any contractual documents, you will be asked to provide certain information as well as the documents below:
For our buyer clients :
Proof of identity
Recent proof of address
Information regarding your income, wealth and source of funds
If the buyer is a company : a recent registration document and articles of association
For our vendors :
Proof of identity
Recent proof of address
Proof of ownership
Latest ‘avis de taxe foncière’
If the vendor is a company : a recent registration document and articles of association
Are you considering buying a holiday home in France? If so, you’re not alone! France is a popular destination for tourists from around the world, and owning a property there can be an excellent investment opportunity. Here are some things to consider when buying a holiday home in France:
Location:
When choosing a location for your holiday home in France, consider what you want to use it for. If you plan on renting it out to tourists, you may want to choose a location that is popular with visitors. If you want a peaceful retreat for yourself, you may prefer a more secluded location.
Budget:
Consider your budget when looking for a holiday home in France. Prices can vary widely depending on the location, size, and amenities of the property. Keep in mind that there may be additional costs involved with owning a property in France, such as property taxes, insurance, and maintenance fees.
Type of property:
There are many different types of properties available for purchase in France, including apartments, villas, and cottages. Consider what type of property will best suit your needs and budget.
Maintenance:
Owning a holiday home in France will require regular maintenance, even if you only use it for part of the year. Consider hiring a local property manager or caretaker to help maintain the property while you’re away.
Legal requirements:
Make sure you understand the legal requirements involved with owning a property in France. You may need to obtain a French mortgage, register with the local authorities, and pay various fees and taxes. It’s a good idea to work with a French estate agent who is familiar with the French property market to help guide you through the process.
The team at Euro Immobilier Chalais / Town & Country Property France have a wealth of experience when helping international clients with their French property purchase. Our knowledge and customer service are second to none, so let us help you through each stage of buying a house in France.
Georisques is a term used in France to describe natural or technological risks that can occur in certain regions or areas. These risks can include earthquakes, landslides, floods, forest fires, volcanic eruptions, and industrial accidents. The French government has developed a comprehensive system to assess, manage and mitigate these risks, which is called the Georisques system.
The Georisques system is based on a national database that identifies areas of risk across the country. The database is regularly updated to ensure that it reflects the latest scientific research and understanding of the risks. The system is managed by the Ministry of the Environment and Sustainable Development, in collaboration with other government agencies and local authorities.
The Georisques system provides information on the level of risk in a particular area, and the measures that should be taken to mitigate the risk. This information is made available to the public through various channels, including the internet, mobile applications, and public information campaigns.
One of the key features of the Georisques system is its focus on prevention and preparedness. The system encourages individuals and communities to take steps to reduce their risk exposure, such as by taking out insurance, preparing emergency kits, and developing evacuation plans.
The Georisques system has been instrumental in reducing the impact of natural and technological risks in France. It has helped to improve the safety of individuals and communities, and has contributed to the country’s overall resilience to disasters.
In conclusion, the Georisques system in France is a comprehensive and innovative approach to managing natural and technological risks. It provides valuable information to individuals and communities, and encourages them to take proactive steps to reduce their risk exposure. The Georisques system is a testament to France’s commitment to safety and sustainability, and serves as a model for other countries around the world.
The role of a Notaire – a public official
A Notaire is a public officer who operates in every area of law including family, property, inheritance, asset management, company law, countryside law, local authorities, etc.They act on behalf of the State and are appointed by the Minister of Justice, and the fact that a contract is drawn up by a Notaire is a guarantee of its legality and authenticity.
The Notaire – a self-employed professional
Although they have public authority, the Notaire operates on a self-employed basis and is responsible for their own office. They are self-employed professionals who are paid by their clients (and not the taxpayers) on the basis of a rate fixed by the State for the services they provide. The term "notaire fees" when associated with property sales usually includes not only the Notaire’s own remuneration and expenses, but also the sales tax and stamp duty that they collect on behalf of the state.
French Property sales – the Notaire’s involvement
One or more Notaires will be appointed to oversee every property sale in France. A Notaire will work in close collaboration with your estate agent throughout the property sales procedure. They will ensure that all legal requirements are met, and that all parties are aware of their rights and obligations. They carry out various searches, establish title, advise the parties on inheritance and financial issues, draw up the deeds, and register the sale at the land registry. Each party can, freely choose their own Notaire, and it is the buyer who is responsible for paying all the notaire fees and stamp duty on a purchase. Notaires sharing the workload share the fees, which are determined by the State on a sliding scale according to the purchase price. Thus it does not cost any more to use two Notaires.
Final completion – signature at the Notaire’s office
Final completion is a formal affair, where the Notaire receives the parties in their office and reads out to them the terms of the official deed of sale and all its annexes, before witnessing everyone’s signatures. After completion, the Notaire will register the sale, give all parties a written certificate of the transaction, and will in due course (after a few months) supply the buyer with a stamped authenticated copy of the final sales deed, which is in effect the ‘title deed’ for the property.
If the parties cannot be present at the Notaire’s office for the signing of the sales pre-contract or final deed, it can usually be possible to sign by power of attorney. If you choose this option, your Notaire will prepare the power of attorney and send it to you to sign, but be aware that a person of authority in your home country such as a solicitor or French consul may be required to witness your signature, and as proof of your identity the witness must counter-sign and stamp the document.
More information can be found on the official Notaires’ website: click here.
Planning your viewing trip
Viewing properties in France
If you’re looking to purchase a property in France, viewing properties is an essential step in the process. At our agency, we’re committed to providing our clients with an exceptional viewing experience that’s tailored to their unique needs and preferences.
When you work with us, we’ll take the time to understand your property requirements, including your desired location, property type, and budget. Based on your criteria, we’ll create a list of properties for you to view that meet your specific needs.
We’ll accompany you to each viewing and provide you with expert insights and advice on each property. We’ll also be available to answer any questions you may have and provide you with information on the local area and amenities.
We understand that purchasing a property is a significant investment, and we want to ensure that you feel confident and informed throughout the entire process. That’s why we’ll provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision, including property history, legal requirements, and any necessary repairs or renovations.
Whether you’re searching for a holiday home or a permanent residence in France, our team is dedicated to helping you find the perfect property. Contact us today to learn more about our viewing process and start your property search with confidence.
Also give an idea of your search criteria.
ADVICE FOR FRENCH PROPERTY BUYERS
The team at Euro Immobilier Chalais / Town & Country Property France are all bilingual, fully trained and registered. We have between us a long and diverse collective experience in the French property market. Our knowledge and customer service are second to none, so let us help you through each stage of the buying process :
PREPARING YOUR SEARCH
Once you have made the decision to buy a property for sale in France you will need to ask yourself a number of questions before you start house hunting in earnest.
Why do you want to buy a property in France?
Some of the main reasons to buy a house in French :
Full time residence as a family
Full time residence for your retirement
Holiday home
Investment
Business opportunity
Your requirements for a full time residence will generally be different from those for a holiday home. For example you may need ; schools for families, all year round shops, medical centres and hospitals, good internet connection, access to airports and cities. Your choice of French property will normally be of better standard with central heating, double glazing etc
When choosing a holiday home in France, you will probably already know the area you want to buy in. Think about whether you will use the property just for family & friends or if you’d like to actively market the property as a holiday rental in France. Good transport links, holiday activities as well as bars & restaurants may need to be included in your search criteria.
How are you buying a French property?
Are you cash buyers? Using a pension release scheme? Or need a mortgage?
It is important to establish what your budget is – do not forget to include the Notaires fees, house insurance and removal costs into the equation.
When do you want to buy in France?
If you are a family with school age children, then moving to France should ideally coincide with the start of the academic year which is usually early September.
For those looking to buy a gite or income generating property in France then you should be looking to buy in the low season to allow you time to be ready for the high season:
View & Make offer
Buy
High Season
Gite
Autumn
Spring
Summer
Ski
Summer
Autumn
Winter
Where do you want to buy a French property?
Which part of France is going to suit you best?
France is a big country with stunning countryside, beautiful seaside beaches, majestic alpine areas, romantic cities and varying climates to match – so there’s something for everybody.
Consider what is important to you and how far are you willing to travel to :
Shops, bars, restaurants – walking distance, 5 mins drive or more?
Golf, skiing, sailing, horse-riding etc. How far are you willing to travel to enjoy your pastime?
Access to transport links ?
Can you afford to buy in the region you choose? Prices vary across France so check out how the different regions compare with each other and with your budget.
Let our local agents guide you – they live and work in the area and would love to share their knowledge to help you find the right place for you..
MAKE A WISH LIST
Get everybody involved in choosing your property in France, be honest with each other and don’t be afraid of listing the "must haves" and probably more important the "must have nots"!
An ideal wish list includes:
Full time residence or holiday home
Style of property – old/character, modern, single storey, countryside farmhouse, Maison de Maître, town house, bungalow, chateau etc
Geographical location – anywhere in France or in a particular region/department/area?
Immediate environment – countryside, hamlet, village, town, city……
How many bedrooms do you want? And how many do you really need?
Once you have selected your chosen area, defined your criteria and your budget you can now start on the fun part – finding your dream property in France!
Your agent lives locally to the property and will accompany you on the viewing. They will be able to answer any questions you have and share their local knowledge with you.
When viewing please be honest with your agent – if you don’t like the property tell the agent and you can move onto the next property. Most vendors (if they are present at the viewing) appreciate feedback both good and bad!
MAKING AN OFFER
Please have your finances in place before making an offer and cooperate fully when your agent asks you to supply information and documents to ensure that transactions are carried out in compliance with anti-money laundering rules.
Each vendor has their reason for selling and their positions do vary from being fixed price to very negotiable. Your agent will know the vendor, so check with them to see what may be acceptable.
Once the negotiation has been successfully concluded, you will be asked to sign offer forms and supply further personal information that is required to draw up the Compromis de Vente (the initial sales contract).
COMMITTING TO YOUR PURCHASE
The Compromis de Vente establishes the terms and conditions of the sale. It is prepared by the Notaire with the assistance of our Head Office sales processing team. The Compromis de Vente will be drawn up in French, so our Head Office sales processing team will go through it with you in English if you wish.
Purchase costs
You should budget for the additional cost of the Notaire’s fees and taxes, usually around 7-8% of the purchase price of the property.
Cooling-off period for buyers
After all parties have signed the Compromis de Vente, the non-professional buyer of residential property will have the benefit of a 10-day cooling-off period during which you have the right to withdraw from your commitment to purchase. It is delivered by the Notaire by registered post or electronic method. During this period the buyer can withdraw from the purchase without penalty. The vendors do not benefit from a cooling-off period.
Paying the deposit
The deposit, normally 10% of the purchase price, must be transferred to the Notaire’s account by bank transfer after signing the Compromis de Vente. This can come from either your own bank or via currency brokers* who can often offer preferential exchange rates – enquire here.
*You should be vigilant when selecting financial services firms. Our agency will not accept responsibility if you transfer money to a firm which goes out of business owing you money.
COMPLETION AND MOVING IN
This normally takes place in about three to four months’ time, and will consist of a formal signing ceremony in the offices of the Notaire, in the presence of both buyer and seller.
You will be invited to personally inspect the property again beforehand.
You will receive the keys to your new property immediately after the signature of the final deed.
We look forward to helping you through every stage of the buying process:
from your initial enquiry
through accompanying you to the French property you have chosen to view
answering your questions
negotiating with vendors
all the way through to the signature of the final deed at the Notaires office
