Moving to France: Property traps, renting rules and house-warming parties

Moving to France: Property Traps, Renting Rules and House-Warming Parties

This month's Moving to France newsletter explores key aspects of relocating abroad — from avoiding common property pitfalls to understanding the rules of renting and turning your second home into your primary residence. It also covers how to organize a legal and friendly house-warming party in France.

Our Experience

At The Local, the Anglo-American team lives in France, so everyone has personally experienced the exciting and sometimes nerve-racking journey of moving across borders. The newsletter is created for people who are planning a move, have just arrived, or are still handling administrative tasks. Each month, it provides a set of practical tips to make settling in easier.

Buying Property in France

For many newcomers, relocating to France includes the challenge of buying a home. Even for native speakers, purchasing property can be stressful; doing so in another country introduces added complexity. To help, The Local team created a detailed guide to the French property market, explaining each step of the buying and selling process and highlighting frequent legal and tax traps faced by foreign buyers.

READ ALSO: 7 French property traps that catch out foreign buyers

Opportunities in the Countryside

Those dreaming of a fresh start in the French countryside may benefit from government support programs, particularly if they plan to launch a business as part of their new life.

Author’s Summary

Relocating to France involves both adventure and complexity; knowing the property rules, avoiding legal traps, and seeking proper guidance make the transition smoother.

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The Local The Local — 2025-11-05