How Do Our Property Finding Services Work?

Buying property in France is a dream for many — and it’s easy to see why. The scenery, the lifestyle, the food and wine, the architecture — it’s all incredibly appealing.

A house here in south-west France can be a European family base for residents of the Middle East or the US. Or, it can be a bolthole for British and fellow Europeans to holiday in, or a place to retire to.

But the process of purchasing French property can feel a little less charming when you're navigating legal steps, language barriers and unfamiliar systems.

That’s where I come in.

As a bilingual property finder, I am not an estate agent and work exclusively for YOU. I help international buyers find the right property, guiding them through the entire process from the first viewing to handing over the keys. Think of me as your local eyes, ears and advocate!

So here is how the property finding & buying process goes….step-by-step

Step 1: Setting out your criteria based on:

- We'll talk about the type of property that suits your lifestyle and investment goals

- The area you would like to be in – beach, countryside, town..

- Your timeline and budget

Step 2: Property Search and Shortlist

Once I've pulled all your criteria together and had a first consultation with you, I'll create a list of properties that match your needs.

This is where I add considerable value as I save you time and money trying to decipher French estate agent listings and then only to find that the location is wrong.

French estate agents do not list the exact location, so I save you time by checking out the locations for you. I do the legwork and only present carefully-selected properties that match your criteria.

I set up visits for you, usually over the course on a day.

Step 3: Making an offer

When you find the property you love (and you will know when it’s the right one!), I will submit an offer on your behalf, which is signed by both vendor and buyer. This is not legally-binding,but it does ensure that no-one can come in with a higher offer. In France, it is not customary to go above the asking price.

I then negotiate on your behalf if there is a counter-offer and ensure everything is done properly in your best interest.

Step 4: Signing the compromis de vente

There are two sales agreements in France and the Compromis De Vente is the first and most important, unknown to many. It outlines the agreed price, any conditions of sale (like a mortgage), outlines the administrative details that must be completed before the second deed and gives a target completion date.

It also gives you a get-out period of 10 days reflection when you can withdraw without penalty.

I will translate the main clauses of this deal so you know what you are signing. I will also act as your proxy if you are unable to be present for the signing. You don’t need to be at either signing as I can do this for you, again saving you time and extra expense.

Step 5: Navigating the Legal Side

I have worked with a notary firm for over 22 years now and have a very good relationship with them, so I shall deal with every step as the formalities are achieved.

During this time I can also help with:

- Mortgage brokers or banks

- Architects and builders (if there are significant works to be done on the property)

- Currency exchange specialists

- Insurance (as the house must be insured on completion of sale)

- All utilities and internet as well as deliveries (if necessary)

Basically my role is to add value to the whole process and make sure that everything runs smoothly and nothing is lost in translation.

Step 6: Final Signing and Getting the Keys

The ‘acte de vente’ takes place with the notary and is now done electronically once all the legal checks have been accomplished, usually 3 to 4 months later.

You can be present and I advise that you are, as the French are quite sensitive when it comes to selling property and they like to meet the next owners. But equally, if this is impossible, I can oversee this for you.

It is also an opportunity to get some contacts from the vendor for contractors they might have used for pool and garden maintenance. So you can find a cleaner or an odd job man – all very useful addresses to have!

Bonus: Aftercare and Settling In!

My job doesn’t stop there. I can oversee deliveries, project manage works on your property by connecting you with the best tradesmen (all tried and tested personally) and provide pool companies, gardeners and cleaners as required.

Whatever your plans are, I’m here to help you settle in confidently

My Final Thoughts

Buying property in any foreign country is never an easy task and France is no exception but with the right guidance, it is absolutely worth having a slice of this beautiful part of South-West France. My job is to remove the stress, protect your interests and make sure the process is as enjoyable as the final outcome.

So if I have sold it to you, let’s talk! I’d love to help you find your dream property so do get in touch!

More on Properties and Projects

Read more about the various projects and properties that Julia has worked on in SW France.