Foreigners can legally buy property in France. Learn how the process works, from legal steps to taxes, loans, and top investment cities.
🇫🇷 Can Foreigners Buy Property in France?
Yes—France allows non-residents and foreigners to purchase real estate without restrictions. You don’t need to be an EU citizen or hold French residency to buy a home or investment property in Paris, Nice, or anywhere else in the country.
However, the process is highly regulated and requires legal and financial preparation.
🛒 What Makes France a Smart Property Investment?
- 📈 Stable real estate market
- 🛡️ Strong buyer protections
- 🧭 Strategic location in Europe
- 💶 Euro-denominated assets
- 🏖️ High lifestyle appeal
In addition, the French market attracts long-term investors looking for value preservation and passive rental income.
📋 Step-by-Step: How to Buy Property in France
1. Search the Market
You can browse listings online, but hiring a property hunter (chasseur immobilier) will give you access to off-market deals and help you navigate local regulations.
2. Make an Offer
Once you find a property, you can make an offer verbally or in writing. If accepted, the seller proceeds with a preliminary contract.
3. Sign the Compromis de Vente
This is the initial sales agreement, signed at the notaire’s office. You’ll pay a 5–10% deposit, and have a 10-day cooling-off period.
4. Final Signature (Acte de Vente)
Roughly 2–3 months later, the final deed is signed. Ownership is transferred once all legal and financial conditions are satisfied.
👉 All real estate transactions must be conducted through a French notaire.
💰 Can Foreigners Get a Mortgage in France?
Yes. Many French banks offer non-resident mortgages, but they have specific conditions:
- Loan-to-Value (LTV) ratio usually 70% max
- Proof of income and assets in your home country
- Life insurance and French bank account often required
Alternatively, many foreign buyers pay in cash to avoid long approval delays.
🛡️ Legal Considerations for Foreign Buyers
- ✅ Use a bilingual notaire
- ✅ Set up an SCI (Société Civile Immobilière) if buying with others
- ✅ Ensure inheritance planning if you have children
- ✅ Hire a tax representative if you’re from a non-EU country
📚 Resources
🎬 Want to See the Process in Action?
📹 Coming Soon: Watch our 2-minute explainer video on buying French property as a non-resident.
📸 Explore our photo gallery of top properties in Paris and the Riviera.
✅ Final Thoughts
Investing in French real estate is not only possible—it’s a smart way to diversify your assets, generate passive income, or secure a European foothold. With the right team behind you, the process can be smooth and transparent.
📩 Ready to Invest in France?
At MoveNest Paris, we specialize in helping international buyers acquire prime property in Paris and beyond.
➡️ Contact us for a free consultation.
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