The convenience of an estate agent who speaks your language and is close by can sometimes make the choice of a home-based professional look attractive. While there are doubtless estate agents outside of France who are very competent in handling French affairs, this is not a viable substitute for having "your man on the ground". In addition a quick check will show that the prices of properties offered by overseas agents are considerably more expensive than similar properties on the French market. Similarly you will only in general find up-market property on offer overseas.
First choose your region
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The first difficult decision is choosing the region where they would like to buy. Holidays are usually the opportunity to explore and compare candidate areas. Don't hesitate to call in on the local house agents and ask what is available and at what price. Even with minimal French you can get the answers to some basic questions (prepare written questions in advance). For a "between holidays" approach check out some of the estate agent sites that we link to. |
Find a helpful, English speaking estate agent
When the region is chosen, then chose with care your estate agent. Unless your French is reasonable you should look for an agent who can communicate with you in English (or your native language) (both written and oral). Leave him your wish-list and let him search the area for you. If you indicate what is non-negociable in your wish-list and what is simply a preference this can help him provide you with an interesting list of places to visit on your next trip.
Although quite a lot of French property is sold "particulier à particulier" without the intervention of an estate agent, this is not really recommended for a foreign buyer unless you feel at ease in French and already have some experience of buying property in France.
The notaire
When you find your dream house your estate agent will recommend a notaire (French equivalent of a soliciter without whom the transaction cannot take place) with whom he works frequently. If you have difficulty finding a friendly estate agent, a notaire in the region can act as your search agent. The advantage is that he will have your exclusive interest at heart (whereas an Estate agent acts for the seller). The disadvantage, however, is that this will be a fee paying service.