Selling from abroad
You have inherited a property in France: what now?
A parent's house in Burgundy, and you live far away. Here are the steps, in order, without pressure.
Contents
Inheriting a property abroad brings grief, paperwork and decisions at the same time. In France, the notaire guides the succession. Here is what happens, and what you will have to decide.
The notaire handles the succession
The family chooses a notaire, often the one of the deceased. The notaire identifies the heirs, lists the assets, prepares the inheritance tax return and the deed that makes the heirs owners of the property.
The deadlines
The inheritance must be declared within six months when the death occurs in mainland France, and within twelve months when it occurs abroad. Inheritance tax depends on the family link. Inheritance rules.
The heirs must agree
Until the succession is settled, the heirs own the property together. To sell, they usually sign together; if one of them blocks, French law offers solutions through the notaire and the court. Talking early avoids most conflicts.
Keep, let or sell
An empty house costs money every year: taxes, insurance, heating, upkeep. Before deciding, I give the heirs a complimentary valuation of the property, so everyone discusses the same figure. Selling an inherited house (in French).
From abroad
The heirs can sign by power of attorney, and I take care of the house on site: visits, surveys, emptying it if needed. Selling from abroad. 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.
Frequently asked questions
How long do heirs have to declare an inheritance in France?
Six months when the death occurs in mainland France, twelve months when it occurs abroad.
Can we sell before the succession is settled?
The sale can be prepared, but the notaire must first establish who owns the property.
What if one heir does not want to sell?
Discuss it first; if needed, French law offers solutions through the notaire and the court.
Can you value the house for all the heirs?
Yes, a complimentary written valuation, so that everyone discusses the same figure.