Relocating to France
Our château is a wonderful holiday home throughout the year, although equally useful to those considering a permanent home in France. We sit at the heart of an area rightly popular with many from the UK, who are looking for a property of their own.
Normandy has always offered a welcome to those from Britain, historic and cultural ties go back a long way. If you are looking for a home in France we certainly recommend the region. Language and practical barriers are often lower than elsewhere, many local agents have English speaking staff, services you might need from the UK are used to the area, solicitors, removals companies, even your bank may have reasonable ties.
A Few Suggestions
Finding the right property is the core task and we would encourage you to look round, not jump in at the first opportunity. It's easy to fall in love with a French idyll, yet there are often more close by, possibly at a better price. Neither should the cost of restoration work be ignored, however ideal the property is in principle. A typical run down property can cost as much to renovate as to buy.
Local estate agents are invariably helpful and used to the needs of British buyer. You could for example contact Claire Halford of Property in Charente, a mine of information with a partner in Normandy. There is however an alternative to consider, with many homes still in the hands of local notaires. They may not have the control over property sales they once did but have modernised, as you can see on this website of notaire properties. There is also a local notaire in many towns, where you can browse through a book listing properties for sale, a little more effort but often valuable.
Whilst they tend to be trustworthy, we would advise you to consult a UK solicitor, to at least validate essential documents and information. In the same vein, use a reputable removals company when you do move. Finding one with experience of moving to France will be an asset, such as the Surrey international removals company close to us, or one nearer you with an established international service. You can find a good choice through the British Association of Removers database.
If you are moving to France, we wish you the very best and hope you find the home you dream of. We certainly did and enjoy offering our guests the use of our château, for a holiday to remember, or as a base for you to search out your own unique corner of France. If we can be of help, please get in touch.
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