Wednesday, July 22, 2009

Overseas Property : Learn About French Property

By Helen Simpson

France is a popular spot for owning an estate, whether it is a permanent establishment or vacation home. It is so popular because the it's easy to get to, the weather is incomparable, and the type of lifestyle you want to live is within easy reach. So how exactly can you find french property, and what do you need to know before purchasing?

Research the regions of France for local weather and character, accessibility, prices, countryside and architecture. You can use websites and estate agent brochures to do so as most not only list properties for sale but also offer include regional guides and expert practical and legal advice.

A property fact finding mission is a good idea. Leave one of your weekends open in order to see the sights of your favorite regions and to look at properties. Make sure that you have meetings already set up with estate agents as well as an interpreter, if one is needed, before you go. This will save you time because a list of homes will be prepared and precious time will not be wasted looking at properties that are either out of reach or unsuitable.

Never sign a contract on the spot, even if you have fallen in love with the French property, since there may be a reason that the estate agent is pressuring you into purchasing it. You must first acquire a structural survey and appraisal report. If you get a proper survey done, that might even bring up some problems that will let you negotiate a lower price. A bilingual solicitor specializing in French property can give you advice on contracts, as well as French conveyancing law.

The actual purchase will happen in two steps. Once you have chosen a property and settled for a price, you will probably be asked to sign a primary purchase agreement and be required to provide a deposit, which generally takes up 10% of the buying price.

The contract binds the purchaser to a range of stipulations and regulations. The second stage is signing an acte de vente (deed of sale), when ownership of the property is transferred to you and the full amount of the purchase price is paid.

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