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When it comes to buying a residential property in France, engaging a reputable chartered surveyor is essential for a successful and informed transaction – not least to ensure you won’t be in for any nasty surprises down the road once the deal’s done.
Buying an overseas property in France is a dream come true for many people seeking an international real estate investment, holiday home aboard, or somewhere beautiful and relaxing to retire to. The captivating charm of Southern France, with its rich history, diverse landscapes, and renowned culture – not to mention its favourable climate, picturesque countryside, and stunning coastal areas – attract those longing for a tranquil retreat or supreme holiday destination. What’s more, the potential for an added income through holiday rentals or long-term leasing further enhances the investment value of an overseas property in France.
As such, it’s crucial you make the right decision on the right property – meaning you should seek expert advice from a reputed property surveying professional with local knowledge.
In this blog post, we provide you with a quick yet insightful guide on how to find and engage a reliable property surveyor in France. The expertise, knowledge, and guidance offered by professional chartered surveyors will help you make an informed decision on your purchase, and ensure the property’s condition, value, and potential issues are thoroughly assessed.
Understanding the Role of a Property Surveyor
Property surveyors play a crucial role in assessing residential properties in France. Their role is to help buyers navigate the complexities of the real estate market and, ultimately, to conduct a thorough assessment of potential property purchases.
When you commission a property survey, you will be provided with a survey report. There are three main types of report you can have conducted – a Level 1 Condition Report, a Level 2 Homebuyer’s Report, and a Level 3 Full Structural Survey.
Read more here: How to Choose the Right Property Survey for You
The Benefits of a Detailed Building Survey Report
A detailed survey report provides a comprehensive assessment of the property. It covers the condition, structural integrity, and potential defects of the property and helps you evaluate the value of the property and its alignment with market prices. Survey findings will also help you understand what repairs may be needed, as well as any long-term maintenance requirements and their potential costs.
In all, survey reports provide hugely valuable insights for buyers – and you should use the information contained within to influence negotiations with sellers. In addition, mortgage valuations conducted by surveyors will be instrumental in securing your financing options for the property.
Finding a Reputable Property Surveyor in France
To find a reliable property surveyor in France, you can utilise online resources, directories, and professional organisations. You can also seek recommendations from real estate professionals, as well as any friends or colleagues who have experience with French property surveys.
When selecting a surveyor, you should thoroughly assess their qualifications, credentials, online reviews, and areas of expertise. Ideally, they should be English speaking, and not only have experience with the French property market, but actually live in France. Many of the hurdles overseas buyers come across when trying to negotiate with sellers and estate agents can be overcome with the right property surveyor on board. An English-speaking surveyor who lives in France will be familiar with local laws and customs, and will likely have many re-existing relationships with notaries and estate agents, which will make the whole process much easier to navigate.
Charles Mackintosh – South of France Property Surveyor
Choosing the right property surveyor involves understanding the different types of property surveys available, contacting potential surveyors and discussing your specific requirements with each of them.
You will need to request sample survey reports from surveyors to evaluate their attention to detail and the clarity of their reports. You should also consider the scope of the survey, as well as its cost and the proposed timeline for completion.
The good news is that if you are looking for a reliable RICS chartered building surveyor in the South of France then you’re in luck – because you’ve already found one.
Charles Mackintosh has over 30 years’ experience living and working in the region. Charles specialises in providing highly regarded English language property surveys and advice for overseas buyers. Get in touch today for more information.