How buying a home in France works

You make a written offer, at or below the asking price. The seller accepts, declines or comes back with a figure. An accepted offer does not yet bind anyone.

The notary drafts the preliminary contract. It sets the price, the planned completion date and the conditions, such as getting a mortgage.

You pay a deposit, often five to ten percent, held by the notary. From then on you have ten days to withdraw at no cost.

The notary checks the title, planning and any pre-emption rights. You finalise your mortgage if you have one.

Signing the acte authentique at the notary makes the house yours, and you leave with the keys. If you cannot be there, a power of attorney does the job.