International Financing

We are French real estate agents and operate under the administration of the French authorities with all relevant implications. As a French real estate agent we are covered by a liability insurance covering as well our escrow account. We consider facilitating the sale of real estate to an international clientele as our primary objective. We have therefore established a homepage, www.compagnie-provencale.com where you will always be able to find a variety of properties at different price levels. We have established cooperation with colleagues in various countries including Denmark, Sweden, UK and the Netherlands.

Practical hints when looking for a property.
Before signature of the final deed vendors are obliged to produce a number of reports on the actual state of the sold property : A report on asbestos (amiante) A report on the presence of lead in old paints in the house/apartment. A report on the presence of termites or other rodents. From November 1st, 2006 an energy audit « certificat énergétique » will also be compulsory. In most municipalities maps now exist, defining natural risk zones. Where these maps exist a report on the risk involved for the sold property is also compulsory. For apartments a measurement of the net habitable area is compulsory (according to the « Loi Carrèz). The buyer, but not the vendor, has the right to cancel the sale contract within a period of 7 days after the signature of both parties. When signing the sale contract or within a short period thereafter an amount of 5 to 10 % of the purchase price is normally paid in to the agent’s or a notary’s escrow account.

Financing :
French banks are becoming more and more aware of the importance of the mortgage market in France and as a result are very keen to lend money and at very attractive rates and terms. Currently as a non-resident you can, for example, obtain a 20-year mortgage for 80% of the property value at between 4 and 5%. Should you wish for help or advice, we have good working relationships with French banks, offering attractive interest rates.