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IMPORTANT

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.

Get the best Euro € rate

The French property buying process includes a contract called the "Compromis de Vente" where the term of the sale are laid as well as the price – which will be in euros. So if you are living in the UK you will need to convert pounds sterling in to euros so you can complete the purchase of your property in France. The same applies if you wish to change dollars to euros or other worldwide currencies.

A Foreign exchange currency broker can offer favourable rates on these transactions and could save you a small sum which go towards a new kitchen, bathroom or swimming pool!

If you are considering buying a French property, it is essential to understand the complexities of currency exchange rates and how they can impact your purchase. A currency broker can provide you with valuable assistance in this process, helping you to secure the best exchange rate and save money on your property purchase.

Here are some of the reasons why you should consider using a currency broker when buying a house in France:

1. Competitive exchange rates:

A currency broker can offer you more competitive exchange rates than banks, which can save you a significant amount of money on your property purchase. They have access to a range of currency markets, which means they can offer you better rates than banks and other financial institutions.

2. Expertise:

Currency brokers are experts in foreign exchange, and they have a deep understanding of how the currency markets work. They can provide you with valuable insights into market trends and help you make informed decisions about when to buy or sell currency.

3. Personalised service:

When you work with a currency broker, you will have access to a dedicated account manager who can provide you with personalised service. They can guide you through the currency exchange process and answer any questions you may have along the way.

4. Flexibility:

Currency brokers offer flexibility in terms of how you can transfer your money. You can choose to transfer your funds in a lump sum or in installments, depending on your needs and preferences.

5. Peace of mind:

When you work with a currency broker, you can have peace of mind knowing that your money is in safe hands. Currency brokers are regulated by financial authorities, which means they are required to adhere to strict standards and regulations.

In conclusion, using a currency broker when buying a house in France can provide you with many benefits, including competitive exchange rates, expert advice, personalised service, flexibility, and peace of mind. With the assistance of a currency broker, you can navigate the currency exchange process with ease and confidence, allowing you to focus on finding your dream home in France.

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.

Additional checks are also recommended.

Complete the form below to be contacted by a handful of selected foreign exchange brokers:

When it comes to buying property in France, trust the experienced estate agents at Town & Country Property France to deliver exceptional service and results. Contact us today to discuss your real estate goals and let us assist you in making your French property dreams a reality!

With our extensive knowledge of the French property market, we are well-equipped to provide you with accurate and up-to-date information about the buying or selling process. From understanding local regulations to identifying the best neighbourhoods and property types, our team has the expertise to guide you every step of the way.

Whether you’re in search of a charming country house, a luxurious chateau, or a holiday home with a pool, we have an extensive portfolio of properties to suit a variety of preferences and budgets. Our English-speaking estate agents work closely with you to understand your specific requirements and match you with properties that align with your needs and desires.

At our agency, we understand that each client is unique. That’s why we pride ourselves on providing personalised service tailored to your individual goals and preferences. Our English speaking estate agents take the time to listen to your requirements, answer your questions, and provide guidance based on your specific needs, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.

Language should never be a barrier when it comes to buying or selling property in France. Our agents are proficient in both English and French. We understand the importance of effective communication, and our multilingual capabilities enable us to cater to clients from diverse backgrounds and ensure clear and transparent transactions.

Navigating the intricacies of the real estate market in France can be daunting, especially in a foreign country. However, our agents are skilled negotiators who will work tirelessly to secure the best possible deal for you. Whether you’re a buyer looking to get the best price or a seller aiming to maximise your profits, we have your best interests at heart.

Don’t let language or unfamiliarity with the French real estate market hold you back. Contact our agency today and let our experienced estate agents in France guide you towards a successful property purcahse.

French property search

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price-change

Country House

€347,680 HAI

Chalais, Charente

Character propertyGite(s)Old stoneOutbuildingsPoolViews

4 2 221m² 4058m²

Ref: 706062

more details

new

Country House

€239,900 HAI

Mouton, Charente

DetachedRiver frontageViews

3 1 148m² 9266m²

Ref: 706061

more details

House

€75,000 HAI

Chef-Boutonne, Deux-Sèvres

3 1 104m² 8669m²

Ref: 706056

more details

Lake

€848,000 HAI

Le Vigeant, Vienne

DetachedLakeLarge grounds (1Ha+)OutbuildingsPossible incomeViews

6 2 278m² 84239m²

Ref: 706057

more details

House

€249,100 HAI

La Genétouze, Charente-Maritime

Character propertyDetachedOld stoneViews

5 2 181m² 6341m²

Ref: 706055

more details

House

€175,000 HAI

Chalais, Charente

Character propertyGround floor bedroomOld stoneOutbuildingsSingle storeyViews

4 1 149m² 6500m²

Ref: 706054

more details

House

€254,400 HAI

Confolens, Charente

Character propertyGite(s)Ground floor bedroomOutbuildingsPossible incomeViews

6 4 359m² 612m²

Ref: 706053

more details

Country House

€245,500 HAI

Nouic, Haute-Vienne

DetachedGround floor bedroomSingle storeyViews

4 2 117m² 2385m²

Ref: 706052

more details

Village House

€88,000

Saint-Priest-les-Fougères, Dordogne

Character propertyDetachedOld stonePossible income

4 1 104m² 1139m²

Ref: 706048

more details

Country House

€795,000 HAI

Pressignac, Charente

Character propertyDetachedGite(s)Ground floor bedroomLarge grounds (1Ha+)Old stoneOutbuildingsPoolPossible incomeViewsWedding / Event / Retreat potential

15 7 612m² 29420m²

Ref: 706047

more details

House

€385,000 HAI

Brossac, Charente

Character propertyGround floor bedroomOutbuildingsPoolPossible income

6 3 256m² 1365m²

Ref: 706051

more details

Mill

€599,000 HAI

Vouthon, Charente

Character propertyLarge grounds (1Ha+)Old stoneOutbuildingsPossible incomeRiver frontageViews

3 2 296m² 18305m²

Ref: 706050

more details

THE FIGHT AGAINST MONEY LAUNDERING AND TERRORISM

What is TRACFIN?

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

We thank you for your cooperation.

https://www.economie.gouv.fr/tracfin

Natural or technological risks 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.

‘Diagnostics’ or obligatory inspection reports.

The obligatory inspection reports, paid for by the vendors, will be annexed to the contract.

Not all the reports mentioned below will apply to the property you purchase. It depends on the age, type and location of the property.

Energy Efficiency (diagnostic de performance énergétique, or DPE)

This report was introduced a few years ago and was intended to highlight differences in heating costs between properties. The DPE results have to appear on all advertising. The report is valid for 10 years (unless it was issued before 30th June 2021).

A DPE must be carried out in all dwellings, unless the accommodation is intended to be occupied less than 4 months per year. It is not required for properties where the only form of heating is open fires, or where there is none at all.

From April 2023, where the property to be sold is classed F or G, the vendor will need to have an energy audit undertaken in order to inform the buyer of the nature of the works required to improve the score. It will apply to class E from January 2025 and D from January 2034.

Furthermore from 1 January 2025, G-rated properties will no longer be allowed to be rented out. From 1 January 2028, F-rated properties will no longer be allowed to be rented out. From 1 January 2034, E-rated properties will no longer be allowed to be rented out.

Find out more about Energy Efficiency (diagnostic de performance énergétique, or DPE) diagnostic report

Electricity

The electrical safety report is not obligatory for properties built, newly-wired or completely re-wired within the last 15 years. The report is valid for 3 years.

Find out more about the Electricity diagnostic report

Gas

The report is necessary when fixed gas pipes have been installed in a property for at least 15 years. The report is valid for 3 years.

Find out more about the Gas diagnostic report

Asbestos

An asbestos report is not required for properties built after July 1997.

If asbestos is present, the report outlines the condition of the material concerned, and indicates whether any action is required.

The report is valid indefinitely where no asbestos is present, or for 3 years if asbestos is present.

Find out more about the Asbestos diagnostic report

Lead

A lead report is not required for houses built after 1st January 1949.

Where traces are found, this is often in undercoats of paint but still detectable by the machine used by the inspector.

The report is valid indefinitely where no lead is present, or for 1 year if lead is present..

Find out more about the Lead diagnostic report

Termites

A termite report is not required for properties outside of designated risk zones.

The report must be less than 6 months old at the time of final completion.

Find out more about the Termites diagnostic report

Natural Risks

Some areas of the country are subject to specific risks such as earthquake, flooding, land-slip, radon, industrial accidents, accidents due to mining, etc. The purpose of the report is to inform buyers of the level of risk, if any, in the commune concerned. The risk report concerns the whole of the commune, not specifically the property itself.

There is also a requirement for the vendors to declare whether or not they have made, or have knowledge of, any insurance claims following damage to the property due to certain recognised ‘catastrophic’ events in the past..

The report must be less than 6 months old at the time of final completion.

Find out more about the Natural Risks or Géorisques diagnostic report

Loi carrez

A precise measurement of surface area must be supplied for properties within a copropriété (usually an apartment or part of a gite complex)

It remains permanently valid unless work has been carried out which changes the surface area.

Find out more about the Loi carrez

Drainage

Any essential remedial work highlighted by the report is obligatory and the buyer will usually have one year after purchase to carry it out.

The report must be less than three years old at the time of completion of your purchase.

In some areas, properties connected to mains drainage are exempt from this legislation.

Find out more about the Drainage diagnostic report

5 reasons why you should use a currency broker

IMPORTANT

Get the best Euro € rate

1. Competitive exchange rates:

2. Expertise:

3. Personalised service:

4. Flexibility:

5. Peace of mind:

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.

French property search

THE FIGHT AGAINST MONEY LAUNDERING AND TERRORISM

ADVICE FOR FRENCH PROPERTY BUYERS

Location:

Budget:

Type of property:

Maintenance:

Legal requirements:

Natural or technological risks in France

‘Diagnostics’ or obligatory inspection reports.

Energy Efficiency (diagnostic de performance énergétique, or DPE)

Electricity

Gas

Asbestos

Lead

Termites

Natural Risks

Loi carrez

Drainage

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