In this episode, we’re talking to Maître Vincent Rairoux, Notaire, who is speaking on behalf of the Notarial Chamber of the Court of Appeal of Rouen about buying French property.

But first, let’s look at the official definition of the role of the notarial profession in France, which helps to explain why they command such respect: “To advise with rigor and impartiality. To support with humanity and discretion. To express the balance of wills within the framework established by law. To preserve documents forever, and thus to act for peace at the heart of society.”

With that in mind, Maître Rairoux takes us through the different stages of a house purchase in France, things to look out for, and what to avoid.

Along the way, you’ll discover a few surprises. For example, did you know that you can’t buy a house in France without going through a notaire, but that the same person can represent both the buyer and the seller?

Or that you can appoint any qualified notaire in France to represent you (there is an official list on the French government website).

There is also a European Directory of notaires who speak English.

The US Embassy in France has a shortlist of recommended Notaires as well.

Watch the video for lots of home buying tips, such as making sure your notaire is accustomed to remote signing process if you are going to be out of the country when your house purchase goes through.

Find out about notarial fees, which are defined on a national level, and range, so the price is fair whether you’re buying in a tiny village or the middle of Paris.

Learn how easy it is to buy property in France compared, for example, to British property chains and widespread gazumping.

Find out how to put conditions of purchase in place, or the flexibility of ‘faculté de substitution’.

Be aware of the pitfalls of buying property in France as a foreign company and when to take specialist advice regarding tax implications.

Find out how you’re protected as a buyer if undeclared problems such as termites or asbestos become apparent after you take ownership of the property.

And what French law says when it comes to children and inheritance, particularly after a divorce…

Got questions about moving to France?

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