Buying a property in France: a step-by-step guide
If you’re buying a property in France for the first time, you’ll likely have questions about how the process works. We’ve put together a step by step guide to help.
Don’t worry if it feels like a lot to take in. We will provide you with a dedicated property consultant to guide you throughout the process. Our consultants undergo extensive training and have all personally experienced buying and selling property in France. They will be with you every step of the way, right up to the moment you receive the keys to your new home.
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You can also download a pdf version to refer back to later.
Key stages in the property buying process
These are the key stages you will go through during your French property purchase, from your offer being accepted and signing the Compromis de Vente, to completing legal checks with the notaire and finalising the Acte de Vente.
Your offer is accepted - initial steps
When your offer is accepted, you may be required to provide proof of funds, such as a bank statement, mortgage simulation, or proof of an ongoing sale. Both you and the vendor will then sign a Letter of Intent (LOI), which formalises the verbal agreement and temporarily reserves the property while the Compromis de Vente (CDV), the preliminary agreement, is prepared.
Your offer is accepted - initial steps
Compromis de Vente & cooling-off period
The Compromis de Vente (CDV) is a legally binding agreement between buyer and seller that outlines the terms of the sale. The notaire or Beaux Villages Immobilier will prepare this contract, incorporating necessary legal documents, including property diagnostic reports. The CDV is typically signed within six weeks of the offer being accepted, either in person, electronically, or via power of attorney if needed. A 10-day cooling-off period follows, during which you can withdraw without penalty. After this, the 10% deposit is due to the notaire, along with an initial payment for administrative costs.
Legal & admin checks by notaire
At this stage the notaire conducts essential legal checks, including verifying the property’s title, performing local authority searches, and ensuring all compliance documents are in place. In rare cases, certain government bodies may have the right to purchase the property instead. Once checks are complete, the final deed (Acte de Vente) is prepared.
Legal & admin checks by notaire
Finalise financial & insurance requirements
Approximately one week before signing the final deed, the notaire provides an exact breakdown of the final payment, which includes the purchase balance and notaire’s fees. Home insurance must be arranged, as proof of coverage is required for the final signing. Assistance is available to ensure everything is in place before completion.
Pre-signing inspection & utility transfers
Before signing the Acte de Vente (ADV), you will have the opportunity to re-inspect the property, ensuring it remains in the expected condition and that all agreed inclusions or exclusions are in place. Your property consultant will assist with meter readings and preparing information for utility transfers. You will also need a French bank account for automatic utility payments.
Pre-signing inspection & utility transfers
Acte de Vente - transfer of ownership
The final step in the purchase process is signing the Acte de Vente (ADV), the official sales contract, which legally transfers ownership of the property. This is usually completed at the notaire’s office, either in person or via power of attorney if you cannot attend. Your property consultant will be available to assist and ensure the process runs smoothly.
Key legal and property terms for buyers
The final act to sign to complete the property purchase.
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