Paris Life

Basic Sales Process Details

If you decide to purchase property in France, you will first want to determine the amount of money you can borrow. You can do this by either visiting one or more banks that lend to Non-Residents,… Read more

Need to know: Obtaining Finance

HOW MUCH CAN I AFFORD? This will depend upon several factors: How much you are able to borrow; The period over which you intend to repay your mortgage; Your existing mortgage, loans and other commitments.… Read more

Need to know: Property Financing and Purchase Glossary

When buying a property in France, it’s useful to know a few key words in the local language. agent immobilier estate agent acompte deposit acte authentique de vente deed of sale apport personnel down payment… Read more

French Real Estate Glossary

ANCIEN: older building APPARTEMENT: apartment ASCENSEUR: elevator/lift ASSEMBLÉE DES COPROPRIÉTAIRES: general meeting of owners BALCON: balcony BUANDERIE: laundry room BONNE DISTRIBUTION: well laid-out floor plan BOX: parking BUREAU: study/office CARACTÈRE: character, something unusual… CARRELAGE: ceramic… Read more

Need to know: Financing in France

The answer is a straightforward yes, and no strings attached. This is so true that foreign real estate companies buy French real estate every time the market plunges. The second question that comes up is… Read more

Need to know: La Loi Alur

As of 27 March 2014, the Alur Law has been passed by the French government. Below is a summary of the changes to the legislation that may affect building and home owners. Charges: For lease… Read more

Mortgage application – documents required by a French bank

It can be quite hard to understand the cautious approach of French banks and their completely different attitude to borrowing and lending than in other countries. When applying for a mortgage, here are the documents… Read more

Chinatown(s) in Paris

Image: Passion Leica Where to go if you wanting to discover Paris’ most Asian-influenced areas – restaurants and shops to fill your stomachs and pantries with the best of the East. Nouveau Chinatown: The 3rd;… Read more

Vee Hair

Words: Jill Pope Images: Hotze Eisma You would think, in a city teeming with immaculately groomed people, that good hair salons would be easy to find in Paris. Why is it then, that if I… Read more

Paris Life