Tips
on finding a property
If you have decided on an area of France, and are keen to buy, obviously
finding the right property is going to be your biggest challenge. You will know
what you are looking for, but snapping up the first thing you see that closely
matches, might well be the wrong move. When in France take your time and don’t
rush into a decision whilst stood in front of the house, make the decision to
look at as many houses as possible. Even if you come back to the one you saw
first, you will have a better idea of prices and will be more confident when
making an offer.
Conversely don’t look forever and see house after house being snapped up by
others, be thorough with your research and know what you are after. This will
help you sort out the homes that fit your requirements from those that are
close, or are a ‘maybe’, or are a ‘what if’… you know what I mean. And if you
have found a property that fits the bill act quickly and decisively, because by
the time you return to France there is a good chance that it will have gone.
Naturally the area you have picked you will know and hopefully you have got the
finances in place that will take some of the pressure off, but there are other
considerations. Many people buy a place that needs some work, be clear exactly
what that might involve, and if you would not attempt to do it in the UK it
isn’t going to be any easier in France. Be sure of the budget you have for any
renovation work, there are plenty of properties with half finished extensions
that come back on to the market.
The French system for buying a home is well established, don’t try and change
it, it is much better to understand it and work with it. Also if you enjoy
cycling and walking for example, make sure leisure facilities are close by or
if you enjoy travelling, that a train station or autoroute can be easily
accessed. And if it is your first home in France don’t be so far off the beaten
track you are impossible to find, it will be hard on you but also difficult to
sell such a property in the future.
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