The role of the French Notaire when purchasing an off-plan property

Notaires in France are the legal representatives for conveyancing.

They are the only people currently authorised to handle the legal aspects of the purchase and sale of property in France and to register the title of ownership of your new build property. French Notaires work independently and act on behalf of both the buyer and the vendor.

As a government representative, the Notaire’s role is to ensure that the searches on the land are carried out, the title deed and French mortgage (if applicable) are correctly registered and that the appropriate taxes are collected on behalf of the French government.

The legal procedure for buying off plan property is much simplified in comparison to buying an older property and this is reflected in the low fees charged. (2.5% to 4% of the purchase price). Although it is not necessary for purchasers to appoint an independent party, some buyers choose to instruct, at their own cost, a UK based solicitor. The services of a UK based Notary Public are however required when signing the Deed is by Power of Attorney.

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