How to buy property in France
A practical guide for buyers (including foreigners): step-by-step process, purchase costs, annual taxes, financing and quirks in France. Informational, verified August 2026 — not legal advice.
Can foreigners buy?
No restrictions on foreign buyers.
The process, step by step
- 1Written offer (offre d'achat)
- 2Compromis de vente + 5–10% deposit
- 310-day legal cooling-off (buyer only!)
- 4The notary runs checks (2–3 months)
- 5Acte authentique + payment
Purchase costs (on top of the price)
| “Frais de notaire” (taxes+fee, resale) | ~7–8% |
| New builds | ~2–3% |
Annual taxes: Taxe foncière (varies widely, hundreds–thousands €/yr); taxe d'habitation only on second homes.
💶 What it costs to buy a €200,000 home in France
What it really costs you, with taxes, notary and registry included — estimated from the country's rules, before you talk to a notary.
| Resident | Non-resident / second home | |
|---|---|---|
| “Frais de notaire” (taxes + fee) | €14,000 – €16,000 | €14,000 – €16,000 |
| Estimated final price | €214,000 – €216,000 | €214,000 – €216,000 |
Indicative estimate from the country's public rules; rates differ by region and by your situation. Not tax advice.
Financing as a non-resident
French banks lend EU non-residents 70–80% typically; life insurance is de facto mandatory.
Quirks that surprise buyers
- ⚠️ The 10-day withdrawal right is the buyer's ONLY — use it for checks
- ⚠️ The process is slow (3–4 months) but very safe
- ⚠️ Technical diagnostics (DPE etc.) come from the seller — ask early
Frequently asked questions
- Can I buy property in France as a foreigner?
- No restrictions on foreign buyers.
- What costs and taxes do I pay when buying in France?
- “Frais de notaire” (taxes+fee, resale): ~7–8%; New builds: ~2–3%. Taxe foncière (varies widely, hundreds–thousands €/yr); taxe d'habitation only on second homes.
- Can I get a mortgage in France as a non-resident?
- French banks lend EU non-residents 70–80% typically; life insurance is de facto mandatory.