Selling a property in France: what you need to know
Selling a property in France involves a structured legal process. Understanding each stage will help you move forward with confidence
French Law
French property
Clear, practical legal advice to help you buy property in France smoothly, securely and without unnecessary stress.
110+
years of service
26+
experienced partners
400+
advisers and growing
Buying property in France made straightforward
Thinking about buying property in France?
For many of our clients, buying a house in France is a life-long dream. Whether you are planning a permanent move, a holiday home or an investment, the process can feel unfamiliar and complex. The French legal system is very different from that in England and Wales. Contracts, timelines and obligations all work differently.
With Tees, we will ensure there are no misunderstandings which can lead to costly issues. We help you understand what is happening at every stage. We explain your options clearly and guide you through the legal process so you can move with confidence.
"I just wanted to thank you for all your help in the purchase of our apartment. You and your team have made the process much more straight forward and knowing we had your knowledge and expertise behind us, has made our property purchase journey in France so much less stressful."
Do you need a French avocat?
A French Avocat provides legal expertise within the French system and works alongside your UK advisers. This is particularly important when dealing with:
- purchase contracts and conditional clauses
- ownership structures and tax considerations
- inheritance rules and succession planning
- cross-border legal issues.
You should also bare in mind that you might need to make a French will – our experts can advise if that is the case.
Our French avocat Hervé Blatry speaks both French and English fluently and has many years’ experience helping clients navigate the French legal system.
Why legal advice matters when buying in France
You may already be working with an estate agent or a notaire in France. However, it is important to understand that their role is not the same as having your own independent legal adviser. We act for you. That means:
protecting your interests throughout the transaction
explaining French legal documents in plain English
identifying risks before you commit
making sure deadlines and obligations are met
Even if you speak French fluently, legal terminology and procedures can still be difficult to navigate. Having specialist advice ensures nothing is missed.
Our expertise
We have been advising clients on buying and selling property in France for over 20 years. During that time, we have worked on a wide range of transactions, from holiday homes to high-value investments.
We take a straightforward and proactive approach when helping you purchase property in Francy. From your first enquiry through to completion, we focus on making the process as smooth as possible.
Our support includes:
reviewing and explaining purchase contracts
advising on the French buying process and timelines
liaising with notaires, agents and other parties
identifying and managing legal risks
advising on ownership structures and tax implications
supporting with French wills and succession planning.
We will tell you what needs to happen next and keep things moving.
Our experience in French property
Key people
Get in touch
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Tees Law does not provide Legal Aid. You can find more information here about Legal Aid and eligibility requirements.
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What our clients say
★★★★★
“It’s a great comfort knowing I could depend on the professionalism, expertise and deft touch of Mr Blatry”
★★★★★
“After contacting and speaking with several French Notaires and Interborder Solicitors, I have recently spoken with the lovely Lauren Mars at Tees who was able to clearly answer all queries on the matter and was very helpful.”
★★★★★
“Sarah Walker was exceptional in helping us with wills in France and UK. She listens brilliantly, responds appropriately, and gave clear and simple principles to work to.”
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