Yes. France has no restrictions on non-resident foreign property purchases. You will need a French tax number (numéro SPI) and must complete the sale in front of a notaire public. Most international buyers complete the transaction without setting foot in France until the keys are handed over.
Notaire fees are approximately 7–8% of the purchase price for existing properties (mostly transfer taxes paid to the State, plus a smaller notaire fee). New-build properties carry lower fees of around 2–3%. These figures are indicative — the notaire issues a precise estimate before signing the compromis de vente.
Yes. Several French banks (BNP Paribas, Crédit Agricole, HSBC France) lend to non-residents on Côte d'Azur properties, typically up to 70–80% LTV with terms of 15–25 years. Approval requires proof of income, existing-debt declarations, and life insurance. Allow 8–12 weeks from offer to fund release. We can introduce specialist mortgage brokers who handle international files daily.
Typically 3–4 months. After an accepted offer, the compromis de vente is signed (binding both parties) and a 10% deposit is held in escrow. There is then a 10-day cooling-off period for the buyer, followed by 8–12 weeks while the notaire completes title checks, mortgage approval and tax searches. Completion (acte authentique) transfers ownership and keys.
Not for the first round. We provide guided video tours, drone footage and live virtual viewings via WhatsApp or Zoom for shortlisted properties. Most international buyers travel for one focused 2–3 day visit once a shortlist of 4–6 properties is agreed. Our team coordinates the entire visit, including airport pickup from Nice (NCE).