Boundaries - Check the boundaries, any dependent buildings, walls and land and ask about public rights of way. It’s also worth asking if there are any conditions attached to outside areas such as woodland as there is sometimes a legal requirement to maintain these.
Local Amenities - Ask the same questions as you would be asking back home; how far is the nearest airport or ferry terminal or train station? With TGV fast train? What public transport is there and how often does it run? What local shops and amenities are there? Is there a taxi or Uber cab service?
Drainage - Is the property connected to the sewage system? Does it have a clean supply and an up to date septic tank?
Gas, Electricity and Internet - What main services are linked to the property? This will have an impact on your running costs. For example, you should ask how the house is heated, some holiday homes only have electric heating or a fireplace. If you require reliable internet then ask if the property has quality broadband or better optic fibre which is more and more common in France.
Property Taxes - There are two types, the tax d’habitation which is means tested and the tax fonciere (land tax). They are paid annually at the beginning of the year and settled on a pro-rata basis on completion. Learn more about taxes.
Sun - Most buyers move to France in the hope of escaping the climate so make sure the property benefits from lots of sunshine. Find out what way the house is facing and in hilly areas check that you’re not in a dip or a shady slope that misses the best of sun.
Top Buyers' Tip
DISCUSS YOUR OFFER with our agent, they may have spoken to the owner about their circumstances.
