Having a plan and sticking to it

Ever heard of that classic saying: “Man plans, god laughs”?

Well either Tanya and her husband are a remarkable exception to that rule. Maybe having a plan does make a difference. Their story shows how having a plan and executing on it can make the jump across to France so much easier.

It is hard not to admire their laser focus on learning how to run a new business as quickly as possible. They made mixing with the locals an absolute priority. I believe both of these points have paid dividends over time. Hopefully you can take inspiration too.

Finding your dream home in France: Key considerations and expert advice

  • When buying a house in France, it’s important to consider the area and not just the house itself.
  • The Southwestern region of France is just under the size of England, so it’s crucial to explore the area and know where you want to live.
  • Take a holiday in the region to get a feel for the people, nearby towns, and the area’s accessibility.
  • It’s important to know if the area is open all year round or only during tourist season, especially if you plan to live there full-time.
  • Instead of going property hunting right away, find one or two areas that you like and explore them first.
  • Visit real estate agents and get a feel for the area before deciding on a property.
  • Consider the location of the property and what kind of environment you want around you, such as being close to shops or having a rural setting with a garden.
  • Think about the upkeep and maintenance costs of the property, especially if you’re not there to do it yourself.
  • If you want a holiday home that’s low maintenance and easy to lock up and leave, consider a smaller property with a courtyard or outdoor space.
  • Be realistic about how often friends and family will visit and consider the costs of owning a larger property for infrequent use.
  • Life is busy, so consider how often you’ll actually use the property before buying.
  • Don’t be too restrictive in your search, a wild card may surprise you and fit better than what you had in mind.
  • Find a good agent who will ask you probing questions and really listen to what you want and how you plan to use the property.

Navigating property matters in France: Why professional advice is key

  • It’s important to seek advice from experienced professionals in the field when it comes to property matters in France.
  • Listening to advice from inexperienced sources such as friends or people in bars is often where it all goes wrong.
  • The rules and protocols for property matters have become more strict in France, and it’s crucial to follow the necessary procedures such as applying for planning and obtaining proper documentation.
  • Lack of planning and documentation can cause issues when trying to sell a property with extensions or conversions.
  • Seeking professional advice before making any changes to a property is crucial to avoid legal issues.
  • It’s important to choose an experienced agent with a legal background to ensure accurate information and advice.
  • Researching the necessary information beforehand can help clients know what to ask agents and make informed decisions.

Tanya and Limousin Property on having a plan and sticking to it

Introducing Tanya Bright, a seasoned property expert based in the Limousin region of France. Since 2005, Tanya has been helping people from all over the world find their dream home in this stunning corner of France. With a highly focused approach on the expat market, Tanya’s business, Limousin Property Agents, provides a comprehensive range of services, including property search, negotiation, and purchase support. Tanya has a wealth of experience and knowledge of the local property market, making her the go-to person for anyone looking to buy property in the region. Contact Tanya today at [email protected] or visit her website by clicking here to find out more about how she can help you.

Thinking about moving to France?

Whether you’re planning to move or you’re already living in France, listen to real life stories on our Just Jump podcast or read our useful blog posts to make your relocation a success!

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Alexandra Lhomond Small
Written by
Alexandra Lhomond Small
Marketing Manager · Ibanista

Originally from the south of France, Alexandra brings first-hand experience of expat life on both sides of the Channel. She leads content strategy at Ibanista, helping expats navigate their move with clarity and confidence.

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