Today, France is among the most popular tourist destinations in the world. More than 10,000 people from the UK, Ireland, the Netherlands, the United States, Germany, Belgium, Russia and from other parts of the world are contacting us every year in order to purchase their dream properties in France, whether for a permanent move, investment or holiday home.
Sextant France, part of the Sextant Group, is a fully registered estate agent in France. This is important as all agents in France are highly regulated, inspected & have to provide proof of liability insurance, insurance for clients’ deposits and work to strictly laid down legislation.
Sextant France is part of the Sextant Group, based in London, one of the most widely recognized names on the French Property Market. Selling your property with us guarantees large scale marketing and sales skills that will make sure the property is made visible to both international and French customers.
Selling your French property through us is an easy process. If you are interested in selling your property through us, please send us a message with your contact details by filling in this form:
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Selling your French property involves several key steps to ensure a smooth and successful transaction. Here’s an overview of the process:
1. Engage a Licensed Estate Agent
Partnering with a licensed and registered real estate agent in France is often the first step. They will draft a sales contract (mandat) that outlines the terms of the sale, including the property’s description, agreed-upon price, and brokerage fees. This contract ensures that both parties are clear on the conditions of the sale.
2. Conduct Mandatory Property Surveys
Before listing your property, you’re required to complete diagnotics and an EPC report (DPE in French). These surveys assess energy efficiency, presence of asbestos or lead, and electrical installations. The results must be provided to potential buyers to ensure transparency. We can help you to organise them.
3. Market Your Property
Effective marketing is crucial to attract potential buyers. Your estate agent will typically handle this, utilizing various platforms to showcase your property. High-quality photos, detailed descriptions, and highlighting unique features can significantly enhance your property’s appeal. Additionally, listing your property on popular real estate websites in France and overseas increase visibility.
4. Negotiate Offers and Sign the Preliminary Contract
Once a buyer expresses interest, negotiations will take place to agree on the sale price and terms. After reaching an agreement, both parties sign a preliminary contract, often the Compromis de Vente. This contract outlines the terms of the sale and includes a 10-day cooling-off period for the buyer, during which they can withdraw without penalty.
5. Finalize the Sale
After the cooling-off period and completion of all necessary checks, the final deed of sale (Acte de Vente) is signed in the presence of a notaire. The notaire ensures all legal requirements are met and facilitates the transfer of ownership. Upon signing, the buyer pays the remaining balance, and you hand over the keys to the property.
6. Understand Tax Implications
Be aware of potential tax obligations, such as capital gains tax, which may apply depending on factors like the length of ownership and whether the property was your primary residence. Consulting with a tax professional can provide clarity on your specific situation.
By following these steps and working with experienced professionals such as Sextant’ estate agents, you can navigate the process to sell your French property with confidence and ease.