Buying real estate in France from abroad

That you want Buying a property in France to live there during your stays or to make a rental investment, several opportunities are available to you. THEFrench real estate attracts many expatriates thanks to its stability, its profitability and the possibility of benefiting from a Real estate credit under certain conditions. But how carry out your project remotely? What are the procedures and the constraints? Here's everything you need to know.

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Define your real estate project: main residence, secondary residence or rental investment?

Before buying, ask yourself the question of the use of the property:

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1. Buying a second home

If you are often in France for vacations or for professional reasons, buying a second home can be a great solution. You will thus be able to have a home base while benefiting from a real estate portfolio that is increasing in value.

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2. Investing in rental real estate

A large number of expatriates are opting for furnished rental or naked in order to generate rental income and to optimize their investment. Be careful, however, that some tax systems (Pinel, LMNP) are not accessible to non-residents.

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3. Buying in order to return to France

If you plan on coming back in a few years, Buying a property in France right now can allow you to anticipate your return and secure a home in a constantly changing market.

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Financing and obtaining a mortgage

One of the main challenges for expatriates remains financing. It is important to know the conditions for get a home loan as a non-resident.

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French banks and expatriates

Les French banks are often more careful with real estate investors residing abroad. However, some banks agree to finance expatriates under certain conditions:

• One stable and sufficient income (preferably in euros or in a hard currency)
• One employment contract on a permanent contract, ideally with a company with a link with France
• One Significant personal contribution (generally 20 to 30% of the price of the property)

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Banks that accept expatriates

Not all banks offer Real estate credit to non-residents. It is therefore advisable to use a specialized broker to identify a bank that accepts your profile according to your country of residence and negotiate the best terms.

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The steps to buy a property in France from abroad

Buying remotely requires rigorous organization. Here are the main steps:

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1. Finding the right property

For invest in real estate in France from abroad, it is essential to clearly define your criteria: location, budget, area, rental profitability if it is an investment. Research the market, compare prices and identify attractive areas. If you can't be there, Call to a real estate hunter like MeCaza is an excellent solution to secure your project.

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2. Obtaining financing

Accessing a loan can be more complex for expatriates and residents in France living abroad. You will need to open a bank account in a Banque Française, prepare a solid case and negotiate your local contract. The help of a broker can be invaluable for get a home loan with the best conditions.

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3. Sign the preliminary contract

Once the property is found, a compromise or promise to sell is signed in front of a notary. This is a legal commitment that reserves the property for you. A withdrawal period of 10 days is provided for by law.

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4. Complete the purchase

The purchase is formalized when theauthentic act at the notary. At this stage, the notary ensures the compliance of the transaction and the transfer of funds. Once this step has been validated, the keys can be handed over.

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Taxation and taxes for expatriates

1. Tax on rental income

If you rent your property, rental income are taxed in France. Non-residents are subject to a minimum rate of 20%.

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2. Real estate wealth tax (IFI)

The IFI applies to expatriates with real estate assets in France greater than 1.3 million euros.

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3. Real estate capital gain

In case of resale, the real estate capital gain is taxed at 19%, plus 17.2% social security contributions. Abatements exist depending on the length of detention.

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Why use Mecaza for your real estate purchase in France?

Buying a property remotely can be complex, that's why MeCaza accompanies expatriates at every stage of the process.

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Our services:

• ‍Custom search according to your project ‍
• Visits and property selection adapted to your criteria ‍
• Support in negotiating and securing the purchase ‍
• Key delivery and administrative follow-up

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Conclusion

Don't waste time and contact our Mecaza experts to make your real estate project with complete peace of mind. Talk to an advisor today!

With these tips you have all the keys to carry out your project real estate in France from abroad!

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❓ FAQ

Can you buy a property in France without being there?

Yes, thanks to a notarized power of attorney, you can sign all documents remotely. In addition, professionals like MeCaza can manage visits and the entire procurement process for you.

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Is it possible to invest in real estate in France from abroad without a contribution?

It is rare that a Bank that accepts to finance an expatriate does so without a contribution. Generally, a contribution of 20 to 30% is required.

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What are the additional costs to expect?

Notary fees, which represent around 7 to 8% of the price of the property, as well as bank and insurance fees. In case of furnished rental, it will also be necessary to plan a budget for furniture.

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Can I benefit from aid or fiscal arrangements as a non-resident?

Some devices are reserved for French tax residents. However, the LMNP and LMP statuses remain accessible to expatriates wishing to optimize their taxation.

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