9 French Property Myths Busted: What You Need to Know in 2025
Novotel London West
25th-26th January 2025
By Elinor Sheridan
Separate fact from fiction with our comprehensive guide to 10 common misconceptions about buying property in France. Get the real scoop before the French Property Exhibition 2025.
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Buying property in France continues to be a dream for many international buyers. However, misconceptions can still hold potential purchasers back. In this comprehensive article, we'll debunk ten common myths and reveal the truth about purchasing your own piece of French real estate in 2025.
Myth 1: "You need to be fluent in French to buy property"
One of the most persistent myths about buying property in France is that you need to be fluent in French. While speaking the language certainly helps, of course it's not a prerequisite for property ownership. Many estate agents (known as "agents immobiliers" in France) in popular expat areas speak English and are accustomed to dealing with international buyers.
Additionally, it's common practice to hire a bilingual notaire (notary) who can guide you through the legal aspects of the purchase in English. These professionals are legally required to ensure you understand all documents before signing, often providing translations of key contracts.
For day-to-day interactions, basic French phrases can go a long way, and there are numerous resources available for English-speaking property buyers, including online forums, expat groups, and property portals.
Myth 2: "The process is overly complicated for foreigners"
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While it's true that buying property in France involves some unique steps, the process is not inherently more complicated for foreigners than it is for French nationals. In fact, France has some of the most robust property laws in Europe, designed to protect both buyers and sellers.
The purchase process typically involves several stages: making an offer, signing a preliminary contract (compromis de vente), arranging finances, and finally signing the deed of sale (acte de vente). Each step is clearly defined, and your notaire will guide you through the process.
Myth 3: "French property is overpriced"
While certain areas command premium prices, many regions in France offer excellent value for money, especially when compared to property prices in other desirable European locations.
Areas like the Dordogne, Charente, and parts of Brittany continue to offer affordable properties despite their popularity, often at lower prices than comparable homes in many other countries. Rural properties in particular can represent excellent value, with spacious homes and large plots of land available at surprisingly reasonable prices.
It's worth noting that property prices in France tend to be more stable than in some other countries, with slower but steady appreciation in many areas. This can make French property a solid long-term investment.
Myth 4: " All French properties are cheap"
On the other side of the coin, while some areas of France offer more affordable real estate compared to the UK, not all French properties come with a bargain price tag. Popular regions such as Paris and certain parts of Provence can be just as expensive, if not more so, than prime locations in Britain.
While it's true that some areas of France offer remarkably affordable properties, especially in rural regions, this is far from universal. Property prices in France vary dramatically based on location, property type, and condition.
Myth 5: "Renovation projects are a nightmare in France"
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While renovating a property in France does require patience and planning, it's far from the nightmare some people imagine. Many international buyers have successfully restored everything from crumbling chateaux to historic townhouses.
The key to a successful renovation lies in understanding local planning laws and building regulations. In France, these can vary depending on the location and the nature of the property. For instance, properties in historic areas or those classified as historic monuments may have stricter renovation guidelines.
However, France also offers various incentives for renovation work, including tax credits for energy-efficient improvements. Many regions actively encourage the restoration of older properties as part of rural regeneration schemes.
Finding reliable local artisans is crucial for any renovation project. While language barriers can be a challenge, many expats have found success by networking with other international property owners and seeking recommendations.
Myth 6: "It's impossible to get a mortgage as a non-resident"
Contrary to popular belief, obtaining a mortgage in France as a non-resident is entirely possible, although the process may be more stringent than in your home country. French banks are generally willing to lend to foreign buyers, especially those from other EU countries.
To apply for a French mortgage, you'll need to provide detailed financial information, including proof of income, tax returns, and bank statements. Many banks will require that you take out life insurance as part of the mortgage agreement. The exact terms of your mortgage will depend on your financial situation, age, and the property in question.
If you're having difficulty securing a mortgage from a French bank, consider working with an international mortgage broker who specialises in French property purchases. They can often access a wider range of mortgage products and guide you through the application process.
Myth 7: "You'll be hit with huge tax bills"
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While it's true that France has a reputation for high taxes, the reality for property owners is often less severe than rumoured. The French tax system, although complex, offers various deductions and exemptions that can significantly reduce your tax burden.
The two main property taxes in France are taxe foncière (paid by the property owner) and taxe d'habitation (paid by the occupant). The rates for these taxes vary depending on the location and value of the property.
For international buyers, it's worth noting that France has double taxation treaties with many countries, which can prevent you from being taxed twice on the same income.
Moreover, France offers tax incentives for certain types of property investments, such as buying new-build properties for rental purposes or renovating properties in designated areas.
Myth 8: "French property laws heavily favour tenants, making it impossible to evict problem renters"
There's a common misconception that French property laws are so tenant-friendly that landlords are left powerless against problematic renters. While it's true that France has strong tenant protection laws, it's an exaggeration to say that landlords have no recourse against genuine problem tenants.
French law does provide significant rights to tenants, including protection against unfair eviction and rent increases. However, landlords also have rights and can take action against tenants who violate their lease agreements, fail to pay rent, or cause damage to the property.
Key points:
Eviction processes do exist, but they must follow legal procedures and can take time.
Landlords can include protective clauses in rental agreements, such as requiring tenant insurance.
Recent laws have streamlined some processes for landlords, including faster procedures for evicting squatters.
Professional property management companies can help navigate these laws and handle tenant issues.
While being a landlord in France does require understanding local laws and potentially more patience than in some other countries, many foreign property owners successfully rent out their French properties, both for long-term and holiday lets.
Myth 9: "Climate change regulations are making older properties unsellable"
With increasing focus on climate change, some potential buyers worry that new energy efficiency regulations will make older French properties difficult to sell or rent. While it's true that France is implementing stricter energy performance standards, this doesn't mean older properties are becoming obsolete.
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Facts to consider:
The Diagnostic de Performance Énergétique (DPE) is now more important, affecting both sales and rentals.
Properties with the lowest energy ratings (F and G) will face rental restrictions.
However, there are numerous government incentives and tax credits available for energy-efficient renovations.
Many buyers still prefer the charm of older properties and are willing to invest in upgrades.
Improving a property's energy efficiency can increase its value and appeal to future buyers or renters.
Rather than seeing these regulations as a barrier, savvy buyers are viewing them as an opportunity to modernise properties while retaining their classic French charm.
As we've seen, many of the common myths about buying property in France don't hold up to scrutiny in 2025. The process of buying in France is generally straightforward, well-regulated, and accessible to a wide range of international buyers.
The key to a successful property purchase lies in doing your research, seeking professional advice when needed, and approaching the process with an open mind. We encourage you to explore these topics further at the French Property Exhibition 2025, where you'll have the opportunity to speak with experts on all aspects of French property ownership, attend informative seminars, and perhaps even find your perfect French property.
Register for free entry here: The French Property Exhibition 2025 Tickets, Sat 25 & Sun 26 Jan 2025 at 10:00 | Eventbrite