Updated October 2026 · Fraser Bond
International · France
Buying a farm in France
Notairehandles sale
SAFERpre-emption
Costs~7–8% older homes
Visaspost-Brexit
In short: Buying a farm in France follows the French process: an agreed price, a preliminary contract (compromis de vente) with a cooling-off period for buyers, and completion before a notaire. Agricultural land can be subject to pre-emption by SAFER, a regional body that can step in to buy farmland. Purchase costs on older property are typically around 7 to 8% of the price. Since Brexit, UK citizens need a visa to stay more than 90 days in any 180. Fraser Bond is a London agency and does not sell property in France; this guide is to help you buy with confidence, and we can help with your UK property, such as letting your London home while you're away.
How buying works in France
1
Agree a priceNegotiate with the seller or agent.
2
Compromis de venteSign the preliminary contract; buyers usually get a cooling-off period.
3
Searches and SAFERThe notaire carries out checks, including any SAFER pre-emption.
4
FinanceArrange funds or a French mortgage.
5
Acte de venteComplete before the notaire.
| Check | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| SAFER rights | May pre-empt sales of farmland |
| Planning (urbanisme) | What you can build or convert |
| Septic tank | Must meet standards |
| Water and access | Rights and supplies |
| Residency | Visa rules for UK citizens |
Key checks
Purchase budget
Purchase costs–
Total budget (€)–
Purchase costs vary; newer homes have lower fees.
While you're abroad
- Letting and full management of your UK home
- Sales valuations
- Overseas landlord support
- Rent collection
Frequently asked questions
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Can UK citizens buy a farm in France?
Yes. Staying longer than 90 days in 180 needs a visa.
What is SAFER?
A regional body that can pre-empt sales of agricultural land.
Does Fraser Bond sell in France?
No, but we can let and manage your UK home.
Moving abroad and keeping your UK home?
We can let and manage it for you.
Get a rental valuationSpeak to our team
