Success at last.

Having managed to complete the sale of a house we have rented out in England for several years we were finally able to complete our purchase.

The whole process highlighted the difference between the process of property buying and selling in France and England. In France the process is very bureaucratic and strictly controlled, but expensive. In England it is much more laissez faire and cheaper but much more fraught with dangers and stress.

For example, In France, an initial offer when accepted is binding on the seller. When a contract called a 'compromis de vente' is signed in the presence of the Notary who drew up the agreement the contract is binding on both parties (although there is a cooling off period for the purchaser of seven days from the time the 'compromis' is signed thus providing an escape route).
The purchase is completed when the final agreement is signed this can be done with one notary representing both parties and both can be present when the signing is completed.

At this point the notary releases the money to the vendor and the process is completed. No chance of gazumping or better offers being accepted. This final process can take place as soon as possible after the compromis de vente - usually about 6 to 8 weeks.

The charges are high compared with England but the process is more secure. The notary's fees are typically 3% to 5%. Agents charges around 8% but 15% is not unknown. It pays to check what it wil cost you.