How buying works in France

The French process is safe and highly regulated, but it surprises buyers used to the UK or US systems. Nothing here is a formality you can skip.

Your offer becomes binding quickly
Unlike England, there is no gazumping. Once your written offer is accepted and the preliminary contract is signed, the seller is committed. There is no equivalent of an English exchange delay.
The compromis de vente
The preliminary contract, signed 2 to 6 weeks after the offer. You pay a deposit of 5 to 10 % into the notaire's escrow account, never to the seller directly.
Your 10-day cooling-off period
As a buyer you have 10 calendar days after receiving the signed contract to withdraw for any reason, with your deposit fully refunded. The seller has no such right.
Conditions and mortgage clause
If you are borrowing, a financing condition protects you: no loan, no sale, deposit returned. French banks do lend to non-residents, typically at lower loan-to-value ratios with a larger deposit.
The notaire's checks
The notaire is a public officer, not your lawyer. They verify title, planning, pre-emption rights, mortgages and co-ownership debts. One notaire can act for both parties; you may appoint your own at no extra cost, as the fee is shared.
Acte de vente and keys
Around two to three months after the compromis. Funds are transferred to the notaire beforehand. You can sign remotely with a power of attorney if you cannot travel — we arrange it regularly.