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With the advent of the web it is now possible to view a vast array of French properties all over the web and go direct to the agency. You probably will not save a great deal of money as the agency normally pays the commission to the introductory agent, however, in this case the agency will not normally negotiate on the agency fee if they are paying out large commissions. The problem is that over the past few years agents offering to sell you a French house have appeared on every street corner and often hundreds of tempting properties are shown on the web. You see them, make a reservation, but then find that when you arrive to visit the property of your dreams, it was sold long ago. You have to get real in the French Property Market and go and see for yourself. An idyllic stone cottage with potted geraniums, shady terrace and within walking distance of your croissant and baguette will rarely have time to be loaded on the web page before it is sold. So who do you buy from? Agence Immobilière This is a professional estate agency and has to have a Carte Professionnelle issued by the Prefecture. In order to obtain the CP the owner, principal or Gerant of the agency must have professional qualifications! It is possible to mix and match, for example, several years experience in an estate agency or other administrative position (normally 10 years) can be combined with qualifications, however, the formal qualifications that are necessary to secure a CP have to be obtained by diploma or professional experience or both. For members of the European Union, in general, one has to have proof of a three year university education with a degree and two years of experience. The professional title can also be obtained two years after the baccalaureate with a diploma in law, economics and commerce. Suitability In order to meet certain ethical criteria. The following people can not become French estate agents: • People who
have been imprisoned by the French court.
Commercial Agents They sell, negotiate and usually work under the umbrella of an Agence Immobilière or Notaire. They can have an office but cannot display properties in the window as they are not estate agents. Notaire The Notaire is principally a government tax collector not just estate agent. Buying directly through a Notaire will not necessarily save you money as he/she will put their own negotiation fees on the sale. If you buy through an Agence Immobilière or if the seller has a mandate or authorization to sell the property, the Notaire should not normally put negociation fees on top. This is for the agency. If however you engage the agency to search for a property on your behalf i.e.” Mandat de Recherche” then it is quite possible your final fees will include some negotiation fees. Advertising Agency Always ensure they send you to an Agence Immobilière or commercial agent. Always ask whether or not their fees are included in the Agency Fees or on top. The long established reputable agencies provide a good service in order to connect you with a network of professionals in France and will never ask you for their commission directly. Private Sale This is ok but remember you will have to do all of the paperwork and ask the right questions. Do not forget to ask the private buyer to provide you with a valuation from a notaire or agent. I have known some cases where a property has been advertised privately for almost twice the market value. Del Boy If you wish
to go down this route then good luck. When you meet the guy or girl outside
the bar always ask for identification and if they have a commercial agent's
card. Never pay cash up front or at all and always pay the deposit and
balance to the notaire. At the end of the day good luck and from BRETON
HOMES we hope you find your dream however and wherever your search takes
you.
BRETON HOMES
S.A.R.L.
Helping you
to find your home in Brittany. French & English spoken.
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