Finding a home in France. Buying an apartment or villa in France

When buying a home in France you must firstly give thought to what type of property you want and in which area. Would you rather go for a villa in France or an apartment? France has many wonderful properties to choose from but you must find them first.

Where to begin hunting for a villa in France

The simplest and most obvious place to start looking for a home in France is the Internet. Web research will allow you to read up on several factors which will help you make your decision on the right apartment or villa in France such as:

• Local amenities nearby the apartment in France
• Comparative prices of other villas in France

UK and French-based agents

Reputable agents can assist you in your search for a home in France by;

• Arranging flights and viewing of French homes for sale
• Providing information on French real estate and viewing times
• Organise accommodation for the duration of an inspection visit

Agents based in France offer the same services although you may feel more comfortable dealing with a UK firm initially. Many companies now offer joint services with bases in both countries.

Buying a home in France - UK exhibitions/events

The past few years have seen the number of exhibitions highlighting homes in France for sale grow rapidly across the UK. These shows can help you find an apartment or villa in France and attract thousands of potential buyers in many locations across the country. Information on when and where they are to be held can be accessed through Overseas Homes Direct.

Services to help you find a home in France

“Homefinder” services can help you locate a villa or apartment in France by arranging a number of viewings for you. They have access to the latest apartments and villas in France to come onto the market and can save you a great deal of time and effort.

Of course, they do not offer their services altruistically and will typically charge a registration fee or percentage of the property cost, or both. That said, using such a service could still save you money in the hunt for the right home in France.

Viewing an apartment in France – travelling to inspect property

However you choose to find your villa in France you will eventually have to head over to inspect the properties you have short listed. You should find out as much as possible about each villa and apartment in France that interests you although schedules are not as comprehensive as in the UK.

Buying a home in France is a massive step. Visit the area at least twice, and at two different times of year, and do as much research as you can, before beginning your search. It is of vital importance to take your time and ensure the villa in France you purchase is the right one for you.