Q:What if I want other options from other packages?
A:No problem at all - francepropertyfinder.com can design your package to suit your needs.

Q:How long does the whole process take?
A:Generally the whole process, from first contact to receiving the keys, takes around six months depending on circumstances - this number can decrease or increase depending on the level of service you require.

Q:How many visits will I need in order to buy?
A:You can make no visits at all or as many as you wish. francepropertyfinder.com can deal with the whole process for you, we can send you videos, photographs, use web-cams and video conferencing, as well as e-mailing full reports so you do not even have to leave your home - we can even sign on your behalf!

Q:How much does it cost to sell your property?
A:Nothing at all - all costs are incurred by the buyer.

Q:How much does it actually cost to buy?
A:Obviously, there is the price of the house and then the notaire costs which range from between 6 - 12% of the purchase price. If we can avoid using an immobiliere (Estate Agent), we can make you a saving of some 8 - 12% of the purchase price.

Q:What are the living taxes in France like?
A:Generally very cheap, you will pay both fonciere and habitation tax per year and compared to English prices, are some 40 - 60% cheaper.

Q:How much is car tax and insurance?
A:Car insurance is very competitive and there is no car tax. The reason for this is because most motorways in France are tolled-but don't worry, you can avoid these with no problems at all.

Q:Do I need to speak French?
A:Once you are living in France, you will find the country as a whole learn English at school and therefore speaking English is popular. Rural France, however, can be more challenging compared to the cities, where you are likely to hear many languages. For the buying process, it is highly recommended that if you do not speak French, you hire somebody who does, as all the legal work is in French.

Q:What is a geometre?
A:This is a report that shows the boundaries to your home and land.

Q:What is a fosse septique?
A:In most of rural France, and in some smaller towns, it is likely that there will be no mains sewerage. A fosse septique is generally found in the garden of the property. Many are out of date and need replacing and this can be a large cost to the new owner, so is worth checking prior to buying!

Q: How long will it take to receive a mortgage in France
A: Around 3 months but this can be a shorter or longer time depending on the requirements of the individual.

Q: Can I view my new French bank account on line?
A: Absolutely! A great deal of the larger banks offer this service. As with all bank accounts in France, there is a small charge for the service.

Q: Are my water pipes likely to freeze if I leave my property over the winter?
A: In some of the colder areas of rural France, absolutely. All plumbers advise that you drain your system before leaving for the winter but it must be said that this problem generally occurs due to old pipework and lack of insulation. It would be a wise move to have your water system checked.

Q: Do I need to pay communal charges if I own an apartment in a block?
A: It is more than likely - all apartments in Paris, for instance, have this charge. It can range from 50 euros per year upwards depending on the services offered by the communal group. Services can include cleaning of communal areas, gardening, upkeep and general maintenance of the shared areas.

Q: How do I dispose of my household waste in France?
A: Even in rural France, disposing of waste is taken very seriously. Collections happen regularly and there are many 'refuse collection sites' where you can take all your bottles, papers etc. Make sure when you first visit your local 'decheterie' (refuse collection site), you take identification with you as to where you live.



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