The South of France conjures up many different images for many different people. For some, it’s a glorious getaway in the French Riviera.
For others, it’s the foodie capital of the world. Or its sprawling vineyards, picturesque villages, sun-soaked afternoons, blissful views, or dramatic coastlines. The truth is that the South of France is all of these things and much more besides – where better to purchase a luxury villa?
Nowhere, is the answer.
Before you do, however, it’s essential that you seek out the expertise of a professional South of France property surveyor with experience in villas and properties in the South of France, so you know exactly what you’re buying and what you’ll get for your money.
Here’s why you should have your list of dream villas in the South of France surveyed before buying.
Pre-Purchase Surveys Aren’t the Norm in the South of France
Even though they’re not a legal requirement, hardly anyone buys a home in the UK before organising chartered surveyors to get advice and information about the property.
It’s just the “done thing”. Not so in France, and it’s certainly not part of the official process.
While it’s true that sellers are obliged by law to commission certain specialist reports – known collectively as the Dossier de Diagnostic Technique (DDT)– these only cover things such as lead paint, asbestos, termites and several natural and industrial risks.
If you want reassurance about the structural stability of your villas in the South of France, you’ll need to enlist the services of a property surveyor.
“Subject to Survey” Offers Can’t Be Made
In the UK, common practice is for buyers to make an offer “subject to survey”, which allows for the potential costs of any defects or issues to be considered once the surveyor has performed an inspection.
However, since surveys aren’t the norm in the South of France, “subject to survey” offers aren’t accepted – meaning that you need to have your villas surveyed by a property surveyor before you put in an offer.
So You’re Aware of the Risks and Potential Costs of Remedial Works
Many South of France villas are so extraordinarily beautiful that you can’t help but fall in love instantly.
However, while a property may appear perfect on the outside, it can have any number of serious issues beneath the surface.
You need to be aware of exactly what you’re taking on, and not ploughing your life savings into something you cannot afford to maintain, or which needs a lot of work.
So, You’re Aware of Problems Specific to the Region
While a property survey will inevitably unearth several typical reparations that will need to be made, there are other problems that are specific to certain regions.
Therefore, it’s crucial that you enlist the services of a property surveyor with experience and local knowledge.
For example, earth tremors are not uncommon near the Southern French Alps, and radon gas – a colourless, odourless, radioactive gas – is found in high concentration in certain areas in Massif Central.
Your surveyor will know of any such local risks and will advise accordingly.
Final Thoughts
Think you’ve found your dream villa in the South of France? Charles Mackintosh has decades of experience working in the South of France property market and will give you a true and unbiased valuation of the property before you commit to purchase.
Get in touch with your friendly, knowledgeable, and bilingual South of France property surveyor today for more information.