BUYING PROPERTY IN FRANCE AS A FOREIGNER: STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE

Avenir Real Estate
May 14
2 min read

The French Riviera attracts many international buyers each year, drawn by its climate, lifestyle, and high-end real estate opportunities. Whether you're a non-resident, an expat, or an investor, purchasing a property in France is entirely possible. Here are the key steps to ensure a smooth and secure acquisition.

1. Define Your Project and Goals

Start by answering a few key questions:

Is this a second home, rental investment, or future primary residence?
What is your total budget (including notary fees, taxes, renovation, furniture)?
Will you buy as an individual, through a company, or a French SCI?

👉 At Avenir Real Estate, we help clarify your goals and target properties that match your vision.

2. Property Search

Thanks to our deep knowledge of the local market (Nice, Villefranche, Cap Ferrat, Cannes, etc.), we offer personalized property selections and organize in-person or remote viewings.

Good to know:

You don’t need to be a French resident to buy.
Purchasing via a foreign company is possible under certain conditions.

3. Legal Check and Financing

Once you've found a property:

Legal checks: title deeds, diagnostics, property rules, easements.
Financing: some French banks lend to non-residents. You can also purchase with cash or via crypto, legally.

💡 Avenir Real Estate can connect you with reliable legal, banking, and crypto-friendly partners.

4. Signing the Preliminary Sale Agreement

This document legally binds both parties. It can be signed remotely via power of attorney or electronic signature. A deposit of 5–10% is usually required.

5. Waiting Period and Final Sale

After 2–3 months, the final deed is signed at the notary’s office. The notaire ensures the legality of the transaction. You officially become the property owner.