Guide for international buyers
Buying in France from abroad.
Most of my international buyers come to France once, to see the property they have already chosen. Here is how the rest is done from home, safely.
Contents
Buying a property in another country feels risky. In France, the process is closely framed: a notaire, a public officer, handles the contract and the money, and every step is in writing. With good videos and a reliable agent on site, you can do most of it from where you live.
Choosing without travelling
Every property I sell has its film, its photos and its virtual home staging. Once you have shortlisted, I visit for you and show you the property live on a WhatsApp video call: the light, the noise, the view, the cellar and the roof. I also tell you what a film does not show, such as the street, the parking or works planned next door.
The offer and the compromis
Your offer is made in writing, and an email is enough to start. Once it is accepted, the compromis de vente is prepared and can often be signed electronically. The 10-day cooling-off period starts after you receive the signed contract.
Paying safely
In France, the money for a purchase goes through the notaire: the balance is transferred to the notaire's account, never to the seller or to the agency. Before any transfer, always confirm the bank details by phone with the notaire's office: fraudsters send fake emails with false bank details. The notaire and the agent must also check your identity and the origin of the funds, as required by anti-money-laundering rules, so have your bank statements ready.
Signing without coming
If you cannot travel for the final deed, the notaire prepares a power of attorney, and someone from the notaire's office signs on your behalf. The notaire tells you which form is needed and where to sign it, and in some cases the signing can be organised remotely by video.
After the keys
Insure the home from the day you own it; in an apartment building, liability insurance is compulsory. Transfer the utilities, keep the notaire's documents, and plan for the property tax, due every autumn.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a French bank account to buy?
Not to buy: the funds are transferred to the notaire. For the running costs, a French or euro account is practical.
Can the whole purchase be done remotely?
In many cases, yes: video visits, electronic signature of the compromis and a power of attorney for the deed. Most buyers still come once, to see the property before committing.
How do I know the agency is genuine?
In France, an agency must hold a professional licence (carte professionnelle) and show it on its documents. GRAVELIN IMMO is at 30 rue Bannelier in Dijon: you can call the agency or visit it.
Which languages can we use?
I work in English and French every day. I also speak Hindi, Urdu and Punjabi fluently, Persian (Farsi) very well, and good Greek and Arabic.