Navigating the French rental market can be daunting — whether you’re renting an apartment or a house. Twelve years ago, when I decided to make the leap to France, I learned the hard way how to navigate the rental market.
Understanding the French Rental Contract
The rental contract is a critical document, and understanding it is crucial. If you know someone who can read French legal documents, ask for their help. I was fortunate because my son, who has experience with French paperwork from his time working with a bank in the Peace Corps in Cameroon, helped me. Always ensure your agent speaks English to avoid any miscommunication.
Handling French Rental Agency Fees
Be prepared for the charges from the rental agency. I was taken aback by the “honorarium” fees, which were more than a month’s rent. This fee is customary and is paid by both the owner and the renter. When I expressed my surprise, my agent explained that this is standard practice in France. To help reduce costs, my agent moved the closing date, which slightly alleviated the financial burden. Not every agent knows all the angles.
Importance of a Thorough Rental Inspection in France
An inspection before moving in is essential. Every nook and cranny must be checked, and any issues noted on the inspection document. Since I wasn’t in France at the time, a friend did the inspection for me. Unfortunately, a small crack at the bottom of the toilet wasn’t noted, leading to a leak six months later. When I contacted the rental agency, they discovered I needed a new toilet. Because the crack wasn’t documented during the inspection, I had to foot the bill.
Tips for Americans Renting in France
Renting in France comes with its own set of challenges, but with a knowledgeable real estate agent and thorough preparation, the process can be manageable.
Your Trusted Guide to Renting in France
Finding the perfect home in France doesn’t have to be stressful. That’s why I am introducing Pierre Guillery to you. He is a seasoned property finder who understands the ins and outs of the French real estate market. As a licensed broker, he’s registered, authorized, and insured, so you know you’re in good hands. Many of my English-speaking friends have benefited from Pierre’s knowledge as a licensed broker and his help.
Do you have a specific question about real estate in France? Let us know. Feel free to drop any questions in the comments or send them directly to me. We’re here to help make your dream of living in France a reality.
Looking forward to hearing from you!
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2 Responses
We are retired seniors (75+) who would like to find a long term rental in the Sere/Montpellier/Clermont-Ferrand area. We would need either ground floor or building with an elevator. We will not have a car, so need to be on good transportation and walking to services. We will have two dogs with us. Can this be found? Our budget is 1200-1500 US$.
I spoke with my friend Pierre and he feels certain there are apartments that will suit your needs.I encourage you to contact him for his help. He can assist with your search, make calls, help you with the required documents, and all the details. Most important, he speaks English. (Assuming you might be like me!) I wish I had someone like Pierre around when I was looking for my apartment. It would have saved me a great deal of stress. You can email him at pierre@frenchproperty.coach. His information is on my website. Best of luck and keep me posted.