Step-by-Step Guide to Buying as a Foreigner

Here’s a simplified roadmap for international buyers:

1 – Find the right property:

Using an agency makes it easier to identify listings that truly match your needs.

2 – Make an offer:

When you’ve found “the one,” you’ll submit a purchase offer—sometimes slightly above asking to secure the deal in a competitive market.

3 – Sign the preliminary contract:

This agreement (the compromis de vente) formalizes the sale. It typically includes a deposit of 5–10% of the price.

4 – Finalize at the notary’s office:

The notary oversees the legal aspects and ensures the sale is properly recorded and secure.