The French buying process, step by step
Buying in France follows its own logic: an offer, a compromis de vente, a cooling-off period, a mortgage condition, then the deed signed at the notaire. For an overseas buyer, knowing the order removes the stress and protects your financing. Here is how it unfolds.
General information. This is not an offer of credit or personalised advice, and no rate is guaranteed. Yann Nachtrieb, registered mortgage broker (COBSP) and insurance broker (COA), and financial investment adviser (CIF), ORIAS no. 26009903.
The main steps, in order
It starts with a written offer that the seller accepts. Then comes the compromis de vente (or promesse), usually signed at an agent’s or a notaire’s office: it binds both parties and fixes the price. The buyer then has a 10-day cooling-off period to withdraw, with no reason and no penalty.
The compromis normally includes a mortgage condition (condition suspensive de prêt): if your loan is not obtained within the agreed time, the sale is cancelled and your deposit returned. Finally, a few months later, the final deed (acte authentique) is signed at the notaire: you pay the price and costs, and become the owner.
Where the financing is decided
The key moment for an overseas buyer is the mortgage condition. Between the compromis and the deed, you have to build the file, obtain bank offers and accept the best, within the deadline written into the compromis. That window is short, especially remotely and in another language. Preparing the financing beforehand, before you even sign the compromis, changes everything.
My job as a broker is to hold that timeline: securing your borrowing capacity before the offer, then getting the loan approved on time.
The journey at a glance
| Step | What happens |
|---|---|
| Offer | Written proposal, accepted by the seller |
| Compromis de vente | Both parties commit, price fixed |
| Cooling-off period | 10 days for the buyer |
| Mortgage condition | Sale falls through if the loan is refused |
| Final deed (notaire) | Signing, payment, handover of keys |
General, indicative outline. The precise deadlines and clauses are in your compromis. Confirm with your notaire.
Frequently asked questions
What if I don’t get my mortgage?
If the compromis includes a mortgage condition and the loan is refused within the agreed time, the sale is cancelled and your deposit is returned. It is an essential protection, not to be skipped.
How long between the compromis and the deed?
Often two to three months, sometimes more. That is the window to finalise the financing, which is why it pays to have prepared the file before signing the compromis.
Do I need to be in France to sign?
Not necessarily. Signing can be done by power of attorney, and much of the process is handled remotely. The notaire will explain the options for your situation.
Ready to start buying?
Book a free 45-minute call, in English. We secure your financing before the offer, so the mortgage condition is never a risk.