Interview with Christine Bacoup-Tidas, J.D., Founder of Tomette Paris®: A Unique Buyer’s Agent in Paris

First published: 28th June 2024 by French Entrée

Can you tell us about your background and how you became a buyer’s agent in Paris?

I am a French-American lawyer, born and raised in Paris. In 1986, I moved to New York where I graduated from college and law school, then worked in-house, specializing in international business and compliance. In 2002, I decided to move back to Paris.

My biggest challenge was the lack of local support to find a home in Paris, while I was still in New York. The buying process from afar was frustrating without someone on the ground to assist with the intricacies. This experience highlighted how much easier it could have been with the right help, even though I spoke French!

I now live in the Latin Quarter with my husband and daughter. My interest in real estate grew from my experiences and frequent queries from international school parents about their apartment search as foreigners. After 25 years of legal practice, I decided to turn my hobby into a business and founded Tomette Paris® (www.tometteparis.com).

What sets Tomette Paris® apart from real estate agencies?

Traditional French real estate agencies are limited to selling properties within their own portfolios, prioritizing the seller’s interests to achieve target sales volume.

In contrast, my service is buyer-focused, ensuring that the buyer’s best interests are fully protected, without any conflicts of interest. Also, as an independent buyer’s agent, I have the freedom to choose from a variety of real estate agencies and off-market properties that match my clients’ criteria. This flexibility is crucial in France, where there is no Multiple Listing Service.

My legal expertise and bicultural background further set Tomette Paris® apart.

How does your legal background benefit your clients?

As a lawyer I am adept at easily anticipating, spotting, and addressing potential issues quickly, ensuring my clients are fully protected and informed throughout the buying process. I offer valuable insights to securing the best possible deals. My expertise ensures that every aspect of the property transaction is handled correctly, which gives my clients peace of mind and an excellent outcome.

What specific services do you offer to your clients?

I provide comprehensive support throughout the entire buying process. This includes guiding clients through every step of the buying process, and a personalized approach to exceed each client’s specific needs and preferences. My services include addressing financing and tax issues, finding the perfect property, hiring interior designers, contractors, and property managers.

How do you build trust with your clients ?

Building trust is crucial because purchasing a property is a significant investment, often involving emotional and financial stakes. I build trust by being transparent, offering honest advice, and acting solely in my clients’ best interests. My goal is to provide a seamless and trustworthy experience, based on mutual respect and honesty.

How do you ensure that the property buying process is easy and pleasant for your clients?

From the initial consultation, I take the time to educate my clients about the unique aspects of the Parisian real estate market and buying process. This involves setting realistic expectations, explaining the legal and administrative requirements, and highlighting the critical differences from other markets. I wrote a Guide to Buying Property for Foreign Buyers and I regularly publish blog articles (tometteparis.com/blog). My sense of humor, positive attitude, and enthusiasm help too!

*Give us an example of a successful search?

I will never forget the joy that my clients expressed when they got the keys to a rare Ile St Louis apartment, with an amazing view, for a fair price!