Buying property in France
Buying a property in France should be a straightforward process and can often be a good investment. However, if you don't speak the language, there could be pitfalls ahead as you can't be sure what all those clauses in the various deeds are actually stating. The stereotype of the foreigner abroad has arisen for a reason! This is where French Legal Translation can help.
I can provide:
- A French into English legal translation of any deeds to help you to protect your interests in the property throughout the purchase process and your ownership. For example, a translation of the deeds may inform you if the property is subject to any easements or rights of pre-emption (similar to a compulsory purchase in the UK). It should be remembered that signing the "compromise de vente" or preliminary contract can often be binding after a seven day "cooling off" period.
- A French into English legal translation of any surveys so that you know if there are any termites or other wood-boring insects in your property or if any asbestos has been used in its construction.
- A French into English legal translation of any leases so that you can be sure of your obligations towards your tenants and their obligations towards you, the landlord.
- A French into English legal translation of any powers of attorney if you are unable to go to the country to sign any legal documents.
- A French into English legal translation of any wills - as your house in France will be subject to French law and inheritance law in France differs from inheritance law in the UK.
In short, I can help you to ensure that the purchase of your dream home doesn't turn into a nightmare.
I recently translated a "compromis de vente" for a client who was planning to move to France, selling her house in the UK. She soon changed her mind when I translated the French document into English for her, informing her that there was a tenant in the French property.
Please contact me for a free, no-obligation quote.