How to buy an apartment in Paris? A complete guide for international buyers

5/12/2025

Buying an apartment in Paris

Investing in Paris real estate is a dream for many people, whether for a second home or a permanent move. However, the process in France is quite different from other countries, such as the United States, particularly in terms of legal formalities, financing or costs attached to the purchase. This guide walks you through everything you need to know to successfully purchase a property in the City of Light.

1. Can a foreigner buy property in France?

Yes! There are no restrictions on foreigners buying property in France. You do not need to be a resident or have a special visa. However, the process involves several legal steps that may feel unfamiliar compared to those in other countries. Also, opening a French bank account is recommended to allow payment via direct debit for utilities.

2. The buying process in France: step by step

Unlike in the US, where real estate agents handle most of the transaction, in France, Notaires (government-appointed legal professionals) oversee the process, ensure that transactions are legally binding, and are responsible for their official registration.

To learn more about French Notaires: https://www.service-public.fr/particuliers/vosdroits/F2164?lang=en

Here is a general overview of the steps to buy an apartment in Paris:

Find a property – Work with a property hunter (chasseur immobilier) who specializes in helping international buyers. In France, real estate agencies typically represent sellers, leaving buyers without representation. This is why we highly recommend having a dedicated search agent to assist you throughout the process. To learn more about our home finding services, click here.
Make an offer – Once you find a property, you submit a written offer (offre d’achat).
Sign the preliminary contract – If the seller accepts, you sign a Promesse de vente (preliminary sales agreement) and pay a 10% deposit. You then have a 10-day cooling-off period to change your mind.
Mortgage & Financing (if needed) – If you are financing the purchase, the mortgage approval process typically takes a few weeks.
Final signing with the Notaire – Usually, the Acte de Vente (final deed of sale) is completed within two to three months after the signing of the Promesse. You officially become the owner. In the absence of a loan, and if possible, this timeframe can be reduced by mutual agreement between both parties.
If you cannot attend the meetings with the notaire, a Power of Attorney (PoA) can be drafted. If the financing condition precedent is waived, a handwritten note must be included in the PoA.
You can also read our article Flat buying process in Paris.

3. What are the costs of buying property in Paris?

In France, the advertised price does not include closing costs, which generally consist of the following:

Notaire fees & taxes: 7-8% of the purchase price.
Real estate agent fees: Often included in the listing price but can vary.
Mortgage fees: If you finance, expect extra costs like bank fees, mortgage insurance and taxes and fees attached to the mortgage deed.
Prorated amounts: At the time of the closing, it is standard practice to reimburse the seller for the portion of the land tax corresponding to the remainder of the year, the co-ownership charges for the remainder of the quarter, and potentially any co-ownership maintenance funds paid by the seller.

4. Can a non-French resident get a mortgage in France?

Yes, but getting a mortgage for foreigners in France can be more complex due to financial regulations. Some international banks in France offer mortgages to foreign buyers, but they often require:
✔ A significant down payment
✔ Proof of income and assets
✔ A lower debt-to-income ratio than in the United States.

5. French property taxes & ongoing costs

Owning a property in France comes with recurring taxes:

Taxe foncière (land tax) – Paid annually by the owner.
Taxe d’habitation (residence tax) – Paid annually by the occupants (for secondary residence).
Rental Income Tax – As an example, for US resident, if you rent out your property, you would declare income in both France and the US due to tax treaties.

For more information, click here

A tax expert familiar with international regulations can help optimize your tax situation.

6. Should you hire a property manager?

If you plan to use the property occasionally, need assistance liaising with French administrations, or are too busy to handle administrative tasks and maintenance issues, hiring a property management service is a smart move.

For more information on our services, click here

From a US perspective: Key cultural & legal differences to keep in mind

🇫🇷 Real estate listings are not centralized – Unlike Zillow in the US, listings in France are spread across different agencies. Working with a buyer’s agent or property hunter can help.

🇫🇷 The buying process takes longer – Expect at least 2-3 months from offer to final purchase.

🇫🇷 Buyer protections are strong:

- Buyer benefits from a 10-day withdrawal period after signing the preliminary contract (Promesse).

- The Promesse is subject to several standard condition precedents, including the waiver of any preemption rights and the removal of any encumbrances on the Property.

- The deposit is remitted to the Vendor’s notaire’s escrow account.

Conclusion

Buying property in Paris as a foreigner is entirely possible with the right preparation and guidance. Understanding French laws, financing options, and cultural differences will help you navigate it smoothly.

Need help finding your dream Parisian home?

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