French notaire reveals the hidden costs of buying a home

For anyone buying a property in France, the notaire’s fee is one of the biggest upfront costs – but it’s also one of the most misunderstood. Many buyers assume it’s simply a legal fee, like those charged by solicitors in the UK, when in reality, it’s a state-regulated...

Chamonix’s new second home rules and what they mean for you 

Chamonix’s latest urban planning reforms have reshaped the landscape for property buyers, limiting new second homes but creating opportunities for those ready to adapt. With a focus on permanent housing and environmental preservation, these changes will influence both...

10 Spanish homes with outdoor space for sale

With sunnier days finally upon us, it’s getting much easier to imagine basking in the Spanish sunshine. Life in Spain is all about the outdoors – and for many buyers, having an outside area is a must-have when searching for their dream home. Whether it’s eating tapas...

From piste to plate: where Michelin-starred dining meets ski resort luxury

Skiing and fine dining have always gone hand in hand in the world’s most exclusive resorts. Nowhere is this truer than in Courchevel, the ski destination that not only offers world-class slopes but also holds the title of the most Michelin-starred ski resort in the...

All the ways French law protects your off-plan ski property purchase

Buying an off-plan property in France offers the opportunity to secure a brand-new home in a desirable location, often at a competitive price. However, as the property does not yet exist at the point of purchase, buyers benefit from specific legal protections designed...

French mortgage rates are falling, but a strong euro threatens your savings

With French mortgage rates dropping and banks competing for buyers, now should be a great time to buy your ski property in the Alps. However, for international buyers, while the mortgage rates in France are falling, the euro has seen its strongest surge in 16 years,...