Selling a property in France involves a structured legal process. Understanding each stage will help you move forward with confidence and avoid delays.
This guide explains the key steps, from choosing how to market your property through to completion and tax considerations.
Choosing how to sell your property
You can sell your property privately or instruct an estate agent or notaire to act on your behalf. If you choose an agent or notaire, the buyer will usually pay their commission. This must be made clear in the advertised price. The mandate you sign will confirm:
- the agreed sale price (net amount you will receive)
- the agent’s commission
- whether the agent can negotiate or accept offers on your behalf.
Agent fees are typically around 7% of the base price. Before marketing your property, it is sensible to obtain at least three valuations. This will help you set a realistic price and understand what you are likely to receive.
Preparing your property for sale
Before marketing begins, you will need to gather key documents and arrange required reports.
- Seller’s pack
You must provide a seller’s pack containing technical reports for the buyer. These include diagnostics such as energy efficiency and drainage.
- typical cost: around €400
- some reports have limited validity (as short as three months)
- in some cases, agents will allow you to delay full preparation until a buyer is found.
- Title documents
You will also need:
- original title deeds
- property plans
- details of rights of way or restrictions.
If you only hold a short ownership certificate, your notaire can help locate the full title documents.
Accepting an offer
Once a buyer is found, an offer may be signed at the agent’s office. This is often a binding agreement.
The offer will confirm:
- the agreed price (including fees)
- any conditions, such as mortgage approval
- additional requests, for example planning checks for future works.
It is important to understand these conditions before signing. Unlike in England, you cannot easily “test the market”. Depending on the mandate, the agent may be able to commit you to a sale if a buyer offers the full asking price.
When the sale becomes binding
The next stage is the compromis de vente (preliminary contract).
- usually signed by the buyer first, then the seller
- the buyer pays a deposit (typically 10%)
- funds are held securely until completion.
The contract can be signed in the UK and is often completed electronically. You should always take advice before signing to ensure you understand your obligations.
The conveyancing process in France
- Contract signing and cooling-off period
After signing, the buyer has a 10-day cooling-off period. They can withdraw without giving a reason.
Any special conditions (such as mortgage approval) must be satisfied before the sale proceeds.
- Title checks and drafting the transfer deed
The notaire carries out legal checks and prepares the final transfer deed. This stage usually takes around two months, allowing time for searches and verification.
- Setting a completion date
Once ready, the notaire arranges completion. If you cannot attend in person, you can appoint someone under a power of attorney. This is a straightforward process and relatively low cost.
- Completion
Completion takes place when:
- the buyer transfers the full purchase price
- all fees are paid to the notaire.
The notaire then finalises the transfer of ownership.
What you need to provide
To avoid delays, have the following ready:
- proof of identity and address
- title documents (or property details if unavailable)
- utility bills.
- Inventory of fixtures and fittings
- Guarantees or invoices for work carried out
- Planning permissions
- Key holder details
Capital gains tax considerations
If you are a UK resident selling a French property, you may be liable for French capital gains tax (CGT).
Key points
- no CGT if the property is your main residence
- a tax agent is required if the sale price exceeds €150,000
- combined tax and social charges can reach 36.2% of the gain.
Reliefs
- CGT reduces after 6 years of ownership
- no CGT after 22 years
- no social charges after 30 years.
Your taxable gain is calculated by deducting:
- purchase price
- acquisition costs (legal fees, taxes)
- qualifying improvement works (with valid invoices).
If you do not have full records, a flat 15% allowance may apply after five years of ownership. The notaire will usually retain funds until the tax position is confirmed.
How we can help
Selling a property in France involves different rules and expectations from the UK. We will guide you through each stage, working closely with agents, notaires and other parties to keep your transaction on track. We focus on clear advice, practical steps and proactive support, so you always know where you stand. If you are planning to sell your French property, get in touch with our team for straightforward, expert guidance.
