Why wouldn’t you use a property finder?

Take the long view

Finding the perfect house in France can be an exciting adventure but also an overwhelming task, especially with the country’s diverse regions and significant differences in local property markets. And with so many online listings and a huge number of estate agents to choose from, it is hard to know where to start. But there is another, less stressful and easier way to find your perfect house, much more likely to result in success; you could enlist the help of a chasseur immobilier to do all the hard work for you. Literally translated, a chasseur immobilier is a hunter of property but that sounds better in French than it does in English so let’s stick with property finder.

I may be biased but, arguably, using an expert who understands the local market and is working for you (not for the seller) is the best way to streamline your search, eliminate all the wasted time and find the right property in the best location. Here’s why:

1. Tailored expertise
A property finder specializes in understanding your exact needs, preferences, deal-breakers and budget. We will scour the market for homes that meet your specific criteria, whether you’re looking for a countryside retreat, a village house, or a base for a new life in France. With knowledge of local market trends, nicest local towns and villages, best schools, restaurants, air, road and rail access, we can help you pinpoint the best location for your home and also help you avoid costly mistakes.

2. Access to exclusive properties
Many of the best properties in France are sold before they even hit the market. Property finders often have connections with local sellers, agencies, and networks of contacts that allow us to find houses that you would not find otherwise. This insider advantage is invaluable and means that we can uncover hidden gems that general agents or property listings websites might miss.

3. Save time and effort and let someone else do the legwork
Navigating French bureaucracy, local regulations, and language barriers can be a challenge for foreign buyers. You can leave this all to us; we will handle all the legwork, from the initial search via our contacts and agents to arranging the preliminary viewings and writing up reports to send to you with warts and all photos. Once a short-list is agreed, we will arrange a viewing schedule to suit you and accompany you to all the viewings before negotiating the price and then look after you right through the buying process, hence ensuring that the whole experience is smooth and stress-free. This allows you to focus on finding the house that really feels right for you without getting bogged down in the logistics.

4. Better deals and negotiation
Experienced property finders also have an in-depth knowledge of market values, which gives us an edge in negotiations. We can therefore often secure a better deal on your behalf by knowing what a price should be, how much an agent is charging and when and how to negotiate effectively, hence saving you money in the long run.

5. Start-finish support
From the moment you start searching to the final signing of the Acte de vente (completion) we will be by your side. We will guide you through entire process, recommend trusted professionals when needed and ensure a stress-free and smooth purchase of your new home. We live in the area and are likely to see you in the future so we will do everything we can to ensure that you are happy in your new home.

Using a property finder to search for a house in France is the ultimate way to find the right home for you. Local expertise, access to exclusive properties, and a personalized service makes buying a house in France a pleasure and, at the same time, you are likely to save money, avoid wasting a lot of time and making mistakes. Why wouldn’t you use a property finder in fact?

If you would like some help with your property search in France, please get in touch: nadia@foothillsoffrance.com