Costs

More Information

• Property Taxes in France:If you own a second property in France, then there are still two local property taxes payable called the taxe d’habitation and the taxe foncière. Taxe d’habitation  (Residence Tax) is a annual residence tax imposed only on the occupier of a property which is capable of being occupied on 1st January of each year, but not a main residence. Taxe foncière is an annual property ownership tax imposed on the owner, whether or not the property is actually occupied by them, or rented out.
• Telephone Charges: Establishing a phone line in France usually takes 72 hours. If you are moving into an apartment or house where the line has been deactivated, you might have to wait a week or so for a technician to come. Some operators ask for proof of a residence permit (carte de séjour) and a French bank account » before they will establish a line for you. (France Telecom only required a bank account and utility bill.)
• Utility Costs: The French government partially privatised its utility companies, Gaz de France (GDF) and Electricité de France (EDF) in 2005. In July 2007, the market was completely opened to competing suppliers. A comprehensive guide to all the different suppliers you can choose from, as well as your consumer rights, is available in French on the Energie-Info » website.
• Buildings and Contents Insurance: If the purchase involves a mortgage, the lender or notaire will insist that a sufficient level of buildings cover is in place to protect the loan, or they may recommend a French Insurer.  Policies offered by French/European insurers may be cheaper, however cover may be different to your current policy, so check the small print very carefully and ensure that you are covered for the special risks of leaving a property unoccupied for extended periods.
• NB: DPE and other certificates will be renewed for the current year as required by French law during the sale and purchase process.