Advice for Australian Buyers of Property in France

Introduction

This is our Essential Guide for Australian buyers wanting to buy property or invest in real estate in the main cities of France. We have witnessed an increase in interest from Australians looking to buy or invest in property in France. This is mostly due to the high prices in Australia, with the average property in Sydney now a staggering $1,450,000 Australian dollars according to NineNews.

Australia was one of the most expensive markets pre-pandemic, and as it was for most of the world, the property market has unexpectedly boomed during Covid. Property prices have come off the boil in recent months, one of the factors holding prices up is very low stock levels while a majority of borrowers are still enjoying historic low fixed rates.

Following the lack of travel opportunities in recent years, property buyers are more confident about investing in Europe. Moving to France is a lifestyle choice for many expats and finding a city apartment, a stone country house or a B&B / gîte that can become a home and a source of income is the perfect way to begin a new adventure.

Advice for Australian Buyers in France

In Property, Knowledge is Power

When it comes to buying property in France, it’s important to have knowledge. Understanding the process, the market, and the rules and regulations will give you an advantage as a buyer. One way to gain knowledge is by contacting the relevant authorities, such as:

• The Australian embassy in Paris
• The French Embassy in Sydney
• The Honorary Consulate of France in Melbourne

These organizations can provide you with information about visas, property regulations, and any other queries you may have.

Arranging Property Visits in France

When it comes to arranging property visits in France, it’s important to be organized and strategic. Based on our experience with Australian buyers, we have noticed two main categories of buyers:

1. Those wanting a property providing easy access to Paris are house hunting in the Loire, Normandy, and Burgundy.
2. Those seeking guaranteed sunshine in the bottom half of the country, looking in Dordogne, in the Occitanie region, and on the Côte d’Azur or Riviera.

When visiting properties, there are a few things to consider:

1. Condition: Pay attention to the condition of the property. Is it in need of major renovations or is it move-in ready?
2. Land size: Consider the size of the land. Do you want a large garden or prefer something more low-maintenance?
3. Roof and sanitation: Find out about the state of the roof and sanitation systems. These can be expensive to repair or replace if they are in poor condition.

It’s also important to focus on a specific area or region that you believe could be suitable for you and your family. France may be smaller than Australia, but it’s still a large country with different regions offering different lifestyles and amenities. Consider factors such as proximity to airports, schools, universities, and other amenities that are important to you.

Additionally, learning French before you arrive in France can be beneficial. There are many courses, apps, and tools available to help you learn the language. This will not only make the purchasing process smoother but also help you integrate into the local community faster.

Research and Resources

Research is key when buying property in France. Fortunately, there are many resources available to Australian buyers. Websites like https://downunderrealty.com have 20 years’ worth of resources just a click away. They offer services like “Buy à La Carte,” which is ideal for busy individuals looking to work or study in a city or enjoy a metropolitan lifestyle.

Common Queries from Australian Buyers

Here are some common queries we receive from Australian buyers and their corresponding answers:

Q: What are the rules? Do Aussies need a visa to buy French property?
A: People and families have been buying and holidaying in France for decades, so this is not a new trend. The travel rules for Aussies are the same as they are for American and now British travelers.

Q: Do Aussies need a Visa to travel to France?
A: This will depend on the length of your stay and whether you’ll be working or taking a holiday in Europe. If you’re staying for less than 90 days and not earning income, Australian citizens and passport holders do not need a visa. However, if you’re planning to live and work in France, you will require a long-term visa (carte de séjour) unless you hold an EU passport. Contact the local French embassy for more information on visas and requirements.

Q: Are there any pitfalls to look out for?
A: It’s important to fully research the visa and tax implications of buying property in France. If you’re looking to run a business or generate an income, it’s possible to set up a company (SCI). Seek advice from agents and tax advisors to assist with this.

Q: Any tips for Australians who want to buy property in France?
A: Be realistic and have a clear plan. Start with basic forecasts and work out your finances and timeframe. French mortgages can be difficult to obtain, especially for non-EU residents, so it’s important to consider this early on in the process. When visiting properties, plan your visits strategically and aim to visit no more than four properties per day.

Conclusion

Buying property in France can be an exciting adventure for Australian buyers. By being knowledgeable, organized, and strategic, you can make the process smoother and more successful. Take advantage of the resources available and seek advice from relevant authorities and professionals. With careful planning and research, you can find the perfect property in France for your needs and begin your new adventure.