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
price-change
price-change
Country House
€347,680 HAI
Chalais, Charente
Character propertyGite(s)Old stoneOutbuildingsPoolViews
At Town & Country Property France, we understand that selling your property in France can be a daunting and complex process. That’s why we’re here to help you every step of the way.
When you choose to sell your French property with us, you can expect personalised service and attention to detail from our experienced team of English speaking agents.
We have a proven track record of success in the French property market since 1976, and we have the expertise and resources to ensure that your property is marketed effectively and priced competitively. Our network of contacts and marketing channels allows us to reach potential buyers both locally and internationally, ensuring that your property receives maximum exposure.
We’ll also provide you with expert advice and guidance throughout the entire sales process, from preparing your property for sale to negotiating with potential buyers and closing the deal.
At Town & Country Property France, we’re committed to delivering outstanding service and results to our clients. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you sell your French property with confidence.
FAQs about Sales Mandates in French Real Estate
1. What are the different types of mandates?
There are four main types of mandates in France: Exclusive Mandate: Grants exclusive selling rights to one agency for a set period (minimum 3 months). Simple Mandate: Allows you to list with multiple agencies. Dependong on the mandate , a commission is paid by the vendor or buyer to the agency which sells the property. Co-Exclusive Mandate: A limited number of agencies (usually 2-3) can list your property. Semi-Exclusive Mandate: One agency has the listing, but you reserve the right to sell privately (commission may apply).
2. How long does an exclusive mandate last?
The minimum duration is usually 3 months, but it can be longer and can be renewed with both parties’ agreement.
3. Can I terminate an exclusive mandate?
Yes, but only after the initial 3-month period. Both you and the agent have the right to terminate with 15 days’ written notice (registered letter).
4. What should a sales mandate include?
Seller and agent information Property description and selling price Mandate type and duration Termination clause Agent’s commission fees
5. Is a sales mandate legally binding?
Yes, a signed mandate is a legal contract. It’s important to understand the terms before signing.
I have a property to sell in France. Please contact me
price-change
price-change
Country House
€347,680 HAI
Chalais, Charente
Character propertyGite(s)Old stoneOutbuildingsPoolViews
Character propertyDetachedGite(s)Good for horsesGround floor bedroomLakeLarge grounds (1Ha+)No close neighboursOutbuildingsPoolPossible incomePrestigeViews
Character propertyDetachedGite(s)Good for horsesLarge grounds (1Ha+)No close neighboursOld stoneOutbuildingsPoolPossible incomePrestigeRiver frontageViews
Character propertyDetachedGite(s)Good for horsesLarge grounds (1Ha+)No close neighboursOutbuildingsPoolPrestigeViewsWedding / Event / Retreat potential
Please complete the below: You will be contacted by companies who specialise in arranging mortgages for French property purchases.
If you’re considering purchasing a property in France, using an English-speaking real estate agent like Town & Country Property France can make all the difference.
First and foremost, language can be a major barrier when navigating the French property market. By working with an English-speaking agent, you can avoid any communication difficulties and ensure that you fully understand the process of buying a property in France.
Additionally, an English-speaking agent can provide you with valuable insights into the local property market, including information on pricing, location, and property features that are most in-demand among English-speaking buyers.
We have extensive experience helping clients from the UK and other English-speaking countries find their dream properties in France. Our team has an in-depth understanding of the French property market, as well as the cultural nuances that can impact the buying process.
We’ll work closely with you to understand your unique needs and preferences, and we’ll provide you with a range of properties that meet your criteria. We’ll also help you navigate the legal and financial aspects of the buying process, ensuring that you’re fully informed and confident in your purchase.
At the end of the day, working with an English-speaking agent can help you save time, money, and stress when buying a property in France. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you find the perfect house in France.
By carefully selecting an English-speaking estate agent, you can significantly enhance your property buying experience in France.
5 FAQs About English-Speaking Estate Agents in France
1. Why should I choose an English-speaking estate agent in France?
An English-speaking estate agent can significantly simplify the property buying process for non-French speakers. They can communicate effectively, explain some legal and financial aspects clearly, and provide support throughout the entire transaction.
2. How can I find an English-speaking estate agent in France?
You’ve already found one!! There are several ways to find an English-speaking estate agent in France: Online searches: Use search engines with keywords like "English-speaking estate agent France" or "English-speaking property agent France." Real estate portals: Many French property portals have filters for English-speaking agents. Recommendations: Ask friends, family, or acquaintances who have purchased property in France for recommendations.
3. Are English-speaking estate agents more expensive than French-speaking ones?
There’s no significant difference in fees between English and French-speaking estate agents. The cost is primarily determined by the property value and the services provided. Agency fees are included in the advertised price and, depending on the mandate, are payable by either the seller or buyer.
4. What services can I expect from an English-speaking estate agent?
English-speaking estate agents in France offer the same services as their French counterparts, including: Property search and selection Arranging viewings Negotiating offers Handling paperwork and preparing legally required documents After-sales support
5. What should I look for when choosing an English-speaking estate agent?
When selecting an English-speaking estate agent, like Town & Country Property France, consider the following: Experience in the local market Knowledge of the specific property type you’re interested in Client testimonials and reviews Professionalism and responsiveness Ability to provide comprehensive support throughout the buying process
French property search
price-change
price-change
Country House
€347,680 HAI
Chalais, Charente
Character propertyGite(s)Old stoneOutbuildingsPoolViews
