Clé France

Making an offer is pretty much the 'done thing' in France these days, it did not used to be so and one had to be careful not to offend a French Vendor with a cheeky offer. Current market conditions over the last few years have meant that offers are more readily entertained.

It does depend on the property but our properties are valued by a local agent with the local market in mind so the asking prices are generally pretty accurate in terms of value. We are seeing that offers within 5% to 10% of the asking price (depending on the asking price) are being accepted or the vendors are open for negotiation. Although it is worth pointing out that French vendors do not like the 'start low and edge up' routine that is seen in the UK where you bat back and forth a few thousand here and there, they tend to not like that approach at all.

So how do I decide what to offer? my advice would be to make the offer you genuinely want to pay. If you view a property and you feel that for example, on an asking price of 100k you really wouldn't be comfortable paying more than 85k, then that is the offer you should submit, and if that is refused, you walk away because you don't want to pay any more.

What if I really want it and offer full asking price? If a French estate agent gets a full price offer for a vendor, the vendor is legally obliged to accept it; if they don't the agent can sue them for breach of contract.

The reason this is written into French law is for consumer protection, it stops a vendor trying to get two potential purchasers into a bidding war, which is a good point for buyers to note. Find out more about the Buying Process in France.

Blog submitted by: Sharon at Cle France.

Many people ask us to suggest properties that have income potential or properties suitable for a B&B style venture, we have a lot that fit that purpose, but it is surprising how many people don't start with the location?

It is an old adage but "location, location, location" is never more apt than when you are looking to start a 'host style" business, the B&B may well be in a nice property and you may be the best Host in the world but will people want to visit you in your location? what is there to do? where is there to go?

I know of a great little B&B just a few kilometres from Mont St Michel, so it's a great location. 

Before starting up a B&B it is essential to know the market you will be aiming for.

Property viewing trippers, Business trips, International, Family holidays? Romantic breaks? Hen nights or Stag weekends?

Sleepy village, busy town or coastal?

Are you going basic one-night stopovers or high end?

The location of your B&B, its decor and layout must be geared towards the type of guest you hope to attract.

Do your research, see what else is on offer, what kind of B&B’s are doing well, which are not and check out prices they charge. You don’t want to price yourself out of the market and people don't always look for the cheapest rates so research as much as possible.

What kind of breakfast you serve can be an interesting issue, to you go 'full English' for British tourists who expect a full hot breakfast or do you go for continental or buffet style breakfasts because 'when in Rome'. There is so much to think of but focus in on location and do your research!

This one is in a good location, set in a 'medieval' town slap bang in the middle of lots of things to see an do and a popular "House Hunting" location.

Blog submitted by: Alex at Cle France.

Take a closer look at NBV00783 for only 86,200 euros FAI.

This very attractive STONE BUILT COTTAGE is situated in a RURAL LOCATION and benefits from an ADJOINING BARN that could be converted and also an open fronted hangar that could be used as garaging and/or WORKSHOP.

Ground Floor; Living Room with Fireplace (32m²), Fitted Kitchen (11.7m²), Store Room (3m²).

First Floor; Landing, 2 Bedrooms (11.6m² & 10.5m²), Shower Room with wc (3m²).

Adjoining Property; Room to Renovate (18m²), Open fronted Hangar (66m²).

Outside; Land of 1200m² with 2 small outbuildings.

Having some good contacts always helps in life, so let us help you by sharing our trusted partners.

If it is to do with France: going to, moving to, setting up a business in France... whatever it is we have a contact that can help you.

*NEW PARTNER INTRODUCTION*

Looking for a little extra budget then take a look at our latest Cle France Partner - Tim Durkin of STAG Mortgages and Insurance services may have the borrowing solution for you.

If you are reading this then you are part of Club Cle France and have access to the best in the business, simply visit our partner pages on the site for more information and if you don't find what you need then just ask us to point you in the right direction.

and we will be adding more trusted partners soon. 

Blog submitted by: Alex at Cle France.

Client's Question: Do the French mind having British neighbours?

This is a question which occurs to many people when they start to consider the prospect of a move to France, either to a second home or to a permanent residence. Especially given that in certain areas of France there are a good number of ex-pats, and a few years ago there were stories circulating in the press about them not being particularly welcome.

I lived in France for more than half of my life and for 12 years solid until 2012, and drawing from my personal experience and that of the enormous number of ex-pats I have met, I can say that I have only ever been made to feel welcome amongst my French neighbours. People in rural areas have a real sense of community, and are genuinely interested in the fact that you have chosen their corner of France to make your new home, in fact they take it as a compliment that you have chosen to do so.

Always make an effort to introduce yourself on arrival, and extend an invitation for ‘aperos’ so that you can get to know them. Don’t let your language skills (or lack of!) hold you back. Arm yourself with a dictionary, they will really appreciate your efforts to converse with them in their own language, and the hospitality you have offered. In no time at all you will be exchanging eggs and vegetables and fruit from the garden!

Always attend village events where possible. In each commune there are those who work tirelessly throughout the year to put on fêtes and soirées for the benefit of those living there. These are a great occasion to experience local life as well as an opportunity to meet others living nearby. You will be warmly received.

Blog submitted by: David at Cle France.