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.
Back to Buying
off plan guide
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