Top tips for visiting the French Property Exhibition

Exhibitors from the forthcoming French Property Exhibition share their expert knowledge with answers to some of your FAQS…

Did you know that health insurance is a mandatory requirement for most visa applications? The requirements are straightforward: you need comprehensive medical coverage, including both inpatient and outpatient benefits, with at least €30,000 in coverage (€100,000 is advised), repatriation, no excess (even €50 would be rejected) and no medical exclusions. Your policy should also cover the entire duration of your visa.

Even though you can apply for social security after 90 days, you need to prove that you are covered for 12 months to secure your visa or risk denial.

Although it is simple to meet these requirements in theory, you may find that officials are not always eager to read through the insurance documentation. They can dismiss your file or reject your policy based on the ‘wording’ on your insurance certificate. Therefore, make sure to work with a broker or insurer that can guarantee a refund in case of visa rejection so that you don’t have to worry about this aspect of your application.

One final note: you will need to present a copy of an invoice or what they call ‘proof of full payment’ for your policy to confirm that you’ve paid for the entire coverage.

Fabien Pilissier, Fab Insurance Stand 29

BE OPEN IN NEGOTIATIONS:

If you need a mortgage, or if your purchase would depend on carrying out works, make this clear at the outset. The parties to a French contract are obliged to provide all relevant information, and a seller could withdraw if other factors are introduced after an agreement is reached.

CONSIDER A SURVEY:

The pre-contract inspection reports (diagnostics) may tell you about the property, but they are limited. An independent structural survey will cost more, but it may offer more reassurance – particularly as to the overall integrity of the property you are buying.

UNDERSTAND THE DOCUMENTATION:

The first contract is extremely important, do ensure that you understand it fully, and that it suitably reflects all your requirements. Translations can often be generic.

EXPLORE INHERITANCE LAW AND TAX IMPLICATIONS:

This can be very complex, and you should ensure you understand it in full. Every buyer’s personal circumstances will differ, so what may have been suitable for a friend may not work for you. Seek advice from solicitors with an expert knowledge of cross-border inheritance law and tax matters.

Fabienne Atkin, Ashtons Legal incorporating Heslop & Platt Stand 43

• Choose your removal company early on.
• Make a full list of goods to be moved.
• Declutter unwanted goods in advance.
• Start packing goods into boxes as early as possible.
• Think about which goods cannot be transported across international borders.
• Start gathering required customs documents (your removal firm will advise which are required)
• Check that access at collection and delivery addresses is suitable for the removal vehicle.

Ben Franklin, Franklins Removals Stand 51

One of the most important things to bear in mind when buying your property in France is that everything is different!

While it is tempting to say: “It’s not like that back in the UK”, ask yourself instead why it would be. France is a very Edifferent country culturally and administratively, and things are inevitably not going to be the same. With regards to planning permission, consent in France is required for any new-build, extension or other changes, no matter how small it may seem – even for a small garden shed, porch, pool etc, and there can be restrictions on what is possible.

Many people come to us having spoken to friends or neighbours, or indeed the local town hall (mairie) with the idea that consent is not required for their project. But 99% of the time it is, so please take note and listen to professional advice so as not to start off down the wrong track and potentially have problems in the future.

Tom Easdown, French Plans Stand 57

The most important aspect of a move to France is getting the right visa, so you can be secure in knowing that you are growing a sustainable dream that will help you achieve your goals of French residency and possibly naturalisation. You want to begin by selecting the visa that will allow you to pursue your personal and professional goals, and ensure you complete all of the appropriate French admin in a timely fashion so you are set up for success, understand what’s expected of you, and know what you need to do to make France your long-term home. Oh, and learn French!

Allison Grant Lounes, Your Franceformation Stand 59

Don’t forget to subscribe to French Property News magazine to stay up to date with all the latest information and properties to help your purchase run smoothly. Or perhaps you wish to subscribe to our sister publication France Today, packed with lifestyle, culture, cuisine and guides, or both magazines! You will receive a free gift to take home with you on the day for any subscription purchase. Come along and meet the FPN and French Entrée Team at the France Media stand located by the entrance.

Claire Ewins, France Media Group, Stand 71

When embarking on the exciting journey of purchasing a property in France, a survey can be your compass, guiding you through the structural integrity and heritage of your potential new home. As RICS Historic Building Consultants, we understand the unique charm and challenges that come with French properties.

Our surveys are crafted not to unsettle your dreams, but to reassure them. Some estate agents may express concern that a survey could jeopardise a sale. However, our experience in the Tarn and beyond has shown that a thorough survey actually provides peace of mind. It’s an enlightening heads-up, offering a clear picture of any immediate repairs or potential costs down the line. This isn’t just about identifying issues; it’s about understanding the property’s unique story and preparing for its future.

Remember, a survey isn’t a hurdle – it’s a step towards making an informed decision. It ensures that when you receive the keys to your French retreat, you’re not just turning a lock, but unlocking a legacy.

Matt Noble, MKN Surveyors, Stand 5

The strict 90/180 regulation continues to make life difficult for non-EU visitors to France, particularly those who own a home there and would like to spend an extended period enjoying it, and we’re often asked if it’s possible to get around the 90-day rule.

Our tip is to think about applying for a six-month short-stay visa. It’s the easiest visa to acquire and offers a lot of flexibility. You can apply up to three months before you intend to travel (it’s always a good idea to get in early in case the consulate gets busy). The validity of the visa starts on the date you nominated on your application.

It has other advantages, too. Unlike long-stay visas, you don’t have to show proof of health insurance when you apply. Your current GHIC is all you need. And if you want to do a bit of travelling during your six months in France, no problem! You can come and go as you please, as long as you leave at the end of the designated period.

So instead of fretting over the online calculator to work out how many precious days you have left, you can just sit back and enjoy six stress-free months in la belle France.

Richard Hammond, French Connections HCB, Stand 31

A leading firm of accountants recently reported that business failures were at the highest level for some time. It is commonplace to pay for a move in advance, particularly on an international level, so if you are moving to France, it makes sense to only obtain quotes from companies who can offer an ‘advanced payment guarantee’ for worldwide moving.

All members of the British Association of Removers Specialist Overseas Group offer this, as well as some members of the national group within BAR. Unfortunately, removal companies do fail. It would be much worse them going into liquidation having taken your money, or worse still, having taken your money and your goods, so why take the risk. Make sure you only ask companies to quote who offer a worldwide APG.

Customers of BAR member companies also benefit from knowing BAR members have to adhere to a code of practice, are annually inspected and financially vetted.

Rob Bartup, GB Liners Stand 53

The two Charentes and southern Vendée are multifaceted departments that surprise us with the diversity of the landscapes and architectural styles. The property on offer is diverse, ranging from mansions, castles and Charentais stone houses of the Saintonge to wine estates in the hills of Cognac. Discover typical villas on the coast of Royan with Belle Epoque, 1950s and ultra-modern architecture, and lovely la Rochelle half- timbered townhouses as well as beach homes in Ile de Ré or La Tranche-sur-Mer. Each year, the Atlantic Coast and the region’s enjoyable lifestyle and optimal climate attract numerous newcomers won over by the ‘surf and turf’ harmony. Our agencies in Saintes, Royan and La Rochelle cover the entire territory of Charente-Maritime and Charente, from the south of Vendée to the edges of Dordogne.

Pauline Bruneau, Coldwell Banker L’immobilière Internationale Stand 49

If you’re having your own home built in France, how do you decide between a single or two-storey house? Each has its advantages, depending on the plot size, your lifestyle, age and family situation. If you have a family and your plot is not very large, then a two-storey house has a smaller footprint but won’t deprive you of space as the extra storey doubles the floor area. Perhaps you’d like a large house in an H, L or U shape? If you have the space to build it, go ahead! With a young family, building on the same level offers advantages – no falls down the stairs and easier supervision of your children. If your tribe is old enough to be more independent, you could opt for a two-storey house, which will offer additional possibilities in terms of size. If you have reduced mobility or are building for your retirement, choose a bungalow.

Maisons Omega- Lot-et-Garonne, Stand 7

Choosing an international school for your children has many advantages. In addition to helping them settle into their new life in France, Globeducate schools ensure that students develop skills and abilities beyond the purely academic. They learn how to play their part in shaping the future; how to tackle the unprecedented social, economic and environmental challenges that are reshaping our global communities.

Véronique Martinet, Globe Educate, Stand 37

Choosing a ski property close to the beautiful Lake Geneva has many advantages for UK buyers including ease of access from the UK by air, road or rail; competitive price and property quality; ideal for summer and winter use; plus many of the local French population speak English.

Howard Watts, Lake & Alps Properties Stand 25

If you’re househunting in southwest France, why not consider one of the medieval bastide towns of Lot-et- Garonne, founded by both the French and the English at a time when land was at stake between both countries.

Despite the turbulence through the centuries, these beautiful and historic towns contain well preserved ancient architectural elements with stone and timber buildings. They usually have an arcaded central square, where you’ll find a bustling weekly market. Property in this area has been in demand with British buyers for over 20 years, especially with its proximity to Bergerac airport. Character properties are typically sought after, like traditional stone farmhouses, but we also see a high demand for village properties with amenities within a short walk.

Samm Khourry, Richard Immobilier, Stand 45

Meet these and other exhibitors at the French Property Exhibition on 27-28 January, at Novotel London West.

For more information and to register for free tickets

visit frenchpropertyexhibition.com

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French Property News is the go-to title for anyone considering a French property purchase, either now or in the future. Packed full of expert advice from property professionals including estate agents, lawyers and tax advisors, it is the ultimate househunter’s guide to the French property market.