Property in France is easily available and since there are no laws against individuals selling property, much of the property is sold by residents in the country. You may find advertised property in French classifieds and other magazines and newspapers. Once you have decided on the type of property you want to buy and determining if you have sufficient funds for the same, you may take a mortgage from several national and international institutions. Again you may build or renovate a house and for this you will have to seek permission from the mairie and fill out detailed forms and applications. You will also have to hire a constructor registered in the country. The rental agreement is called the Compromis de Vente and in case of a mortgage, you will have to ensure that the contract contains a clause to that effect. There is a 7 day period for you to change your mind and determine for sure if you want to finalise the deal.

To apply for a mortgage full proof of identity, income, bank statements, loans payments etc. are required. All lending institutions are required by law to ensure that the mortgage applicant is financially able to meet the repayments and all documents to prove your income and financial status must be provided, like bank statements and credit rating. After your financial status has been checked, the valuation of the property will be carried out by the lender and you will have to pay an additional charge for this service. Once your loan has been sanctioned, you are given a 10-day period to contemplate your endeavour before it is finalised. This may extend to up to 30 days, but not before 10-days. The lender will also arrange for a notarie after your loan ahs been sanctioned to determine if the property has any outstanding mortgages taken out on it and then he will draw up the deed of sale. All financial institutions will require a 20% deposit up-front. While taking out a mortgage you should also factor in legal fees and land tax associated with the property.