Top Mistakes Expats Make When Buying a Home in France (and How to Avoid Them)

Buying a home in France is a dream for many Expats — whether it’s a sunny holiday escape, a rustic retreat in the countryside, or a full-time move for a fresh start. But having helped many expats through the process, I’ve seen how easy it is to fall into some common traps.

Here are some of the top mistakes buyers make — and how to avoid them with a bit of local insight and smart planning.

1. Choosing Somewhere Too Rural

The idea of total peace and quiet is very appealing — until you realise the nearest shop is a 30-minute drive, and there’s no bakery run on Sunday morning. Isolation can be a real challenge, especially if you’re used to easy access to everyday essentials.

Tip: Visit at different times of year and map out how far it really is to shops, hospitals, social life, or even a cup of coffee.

2. Only Visiting in Summer

Properties — and villages — can feel completely different in winter. That sunny courtyard and lively local market may vanish once the tourists do. In colder months, some homes become damp, dark, or expensive to heat, and villages can feel very empty.

Tip: Try to visit in the off-season, or hire a local (like me!) to view the property on your behalf and give you an honest, real-world view.

3. Not Researching the Area Properly

Falling in love with a house is easy. But don’t forget — you’re buying the area too. Some buyers end up in villages where they don’t speak the language, feel out of place, or miss things they didn’t realise they’d need, like schools, community, or services.

Tip: I can help you research the feel of an area, check out local amenities, and even look into schools or community life if you’re moving with children.

4. Taking on Too Much Land

That sprawling garden or plot of land may look dreamy in photos — but maintaining it is another story. In spring, for example, the grass grows fast in southwest France and usually needs mowing once a week. If you're not here full-time, it can quickly get out of control.

Tip: Be realistic about what you’ll actually use — and what you’ll need to pay someone to manage if you’re away.

5. Underestimating Renovation Costs

Even the most charming home might need new windows, heating, electrics, or a new roof — and those costs add up fast. Add in planning permissions, French admin, and delays, and your renovation project can quickly spiral.

Tip: I can arrange for trusted local builders to view properties with you or quote on work in advance, so you know what you're really getting into.

6. Forgetting Ongoing Maintenance Costs

Many people focus on the sale price but forget about the ongoing upkeep — especially for second homes. There’s the garden, pool, cleaning, repairs, taxes, and seasonal preparation. If you’re not based in France full-time, it all adds up.

Tip: Set a realistic budget for maintenance and consider a local support service — I offer help with property care, keyholding, and trusted local trades so your home is looked after when you’re not here.

7. Taking on Too Much After Retirement

Some buyers want the full fairytale: a big house, land, animals, maybe a vineyard! But the reality can be physically and financially demanding — especially in retirement. What starts as exciting can quickly become exhausting.

Tip: Think about how you’ll feel managing the property in 5 or 10 years. Choose something that suits your lifestyle and energy levels long-term.

8. Not Having an Independent Eye

Estate agents — especially the good ones — work hard to help you find the right property. But their job is ultimately to represent the sale. Having someone independent, who’s there purely to represent your interests, can be invaluable.

You might need honest feedback about the feel of the area, a second opinion on layout or light, or simply someone who isn’t emotionally invested in the purchase to help spot practical issues.

.Tip: With my Property Finder service, I work solely for you. I help research listings, view on your behalf, take photos and videos, check out the area, and give honest feedback.

Final Thoughts…

A French home can absolutely be the dream — but it’s even better when it’s the right dream. By doing your research, thinking practically, and getting some local support, you’ll save time, money, and a whole lot of stress.

✨ If you’d like help researching your perfect French property — or want someone to visit on your behalf — I’d love to help. I’m here to make sure your move goes smoothly from the very start.