France is set to overhaul its inheritance rules in a move that could bring thousands of empty homes – particularly in rural areas – back onto the market. For international buyers, it’s a development worth watching closely.
The new law, as reported in The Connexion, was approved by MPs in early March and currently awaits a Senate vote. It aims to simplify long-standing disputes between heirs that have left many inherited homes locked in legal limbo.
Under the current rules, when multiple heirs inherit a property, they must all agree before it can be sold. If even one party cannot be found or objects, the home remains in a state of indivision successorale – unsellable, unrentable, and often neglected.
The reform would make it easier to move these properties out of legal gridlock. Most notably, it proposes reducing the threshold of agreement required to sell from two-thirds of heirs to just 50%. That means that, in a case where siblings inherit a property equally, just one could move forward with a sale.
The law would also give local authorities and notaires greater powers to mediate disputes, trace missing heirs, and ultimately release more homes onto the open market.
Thousands of properties in hard-to-buy areas may become available
Why does this matter for buyers?
France currently has over 3 million vacant homes, according to the Ecology Ministry, with rural areas and smaller towns seeing the highest concentrations. These are often charming period properties that have sat empty for years, blocked from sale by inheritance disputes.
Should this reform pass, a wave of new listings could appear – especially in regions where demand is high but new construction is restricted.
For international buyers searching for second homes, investment properties, or even permanent residences, this could represent a rare opportunity. More stock may come onto the market, potentially increasing choice and softening competition in tight rural markets.
The inheritance law still needs to pass in the senate
Know the inheritance rules before you buy
If you’re planning to buy in France – or already own property here – it’s also a timely reminder to review your estate planning. French inheritance law is fundamentally different from the UK’s. Children are “reserved heirs” and must receive a share of your estate, while stepchildren face a heavy 60% inheritance tax. Even spouses don’t automatically inherit everything.
However, since 2015, British nationals have been able to sidestep France’s forced heirship rules by electing UK law in their wills, thanks to the EU Succession Regulation (Brussels IV). This allows you to leave your French property to whomever you wish – but only if the right legal wording is in place.
And while the law determines who gets what, the tax still follows French rules. Even non-residents can face French inheritance tax on property located in France. Getting this right often requires advice from a lawyer who understands both UK and French law.
The proposed inheritance reform in France could be a game-changer for rural property markets. If passed, it will make it easier to unlock long-abandoned homes – good news for buyers, sellers, and local communities alike.
Some properties have been tied up in inheritance disputes for decades
For international buyers, it’s also a reminder of the importance of getting the legal and financial details right. Whether you’re buying now or thinking long-term, expert guidance and careful planning can ensure that your French home is not only a dream to own – but straightforward to pass on when the time comes.
Thinking about buying in France – or already own a property? Speak to one of our trusted legal and currency specialists to make sure your plans are protected.
