What are the steps in a French purchase?

An offer, then a compromis de vente signed before a notaire, a ten-day cooling-off period for the buyer, and completion by acte authentique roughly two to three months later.

What costs sit on top of the price?

Notaire's fees and transfer duties on an existing property, agency commission where it is buyer-side, plus annual taxe foncière and, above the threshold, the IFI wealth tax on property.

What should I check before offering?

The diagnostics pack, the urbanism certificate, any co-ownership minutes and charges, and — near the sea — the coastal risk and Loi Littoral constraints on the parcel.

Client guideOctober 15, 2024

Investing in Prestige Real Estate: What First Buyers Should Know

4 min read

Overview

The process, the costs and the checks that matter when buying a high-end property on the Côte d'Azur for the first time.

Michelin-Starred Dining

The renowned Mirazur in Menton, awarded three Michelin stars, offers a unique menu inspired by its picturesque setting between the sea and the mountains. The restaurant boasts a garden where many of its fresh ingredients are cultivated, providing a true farm-to-table experience.

Restaurant table laid for four beside a bay window overlooking the sea and the marina — (fig 01.)

La Vague d'Or – Cheval Blanc Saint-Tropez

Nestled under the pines and overlooking the dazzling Gulf of Saint-Tropez, La Vague d'Or offers an incredible sensory journey. Michelin-starred chef Arnaud Donckele excels in his craft, preparing refined dishes that emphasize local produce, from fish and shellfish to garden vegetables, in a symphony of flavors and textures.

Luxury Bistros

For a blend of traditional and modern, Le Chantecler in Nice provides a luxurious dining experience with a touch of historical elegance, celebrated for its refined approach to Provençal and Mediterranean dishes.

Hidden Gems

Le Figuier de Saint-Esprit in Antibes by chef Christian Morisset offers a charming setting within medieval walls, serving meticulously prepared dishes that highlight the best of local produce.

Innovative Cuisine

Delve into the bold and creative flavors at Jan in Nice, where South African chef Jan Hendrik blends French culinary traditions with international flair, creating memorable meals that reflect the Riviera's cosmopolitan atmosphere.

Fine-dining plate of thin red slices in a cream sauce, scattered with caviar pearls — (fig 02.)

These exquisite dining spots not only showcase the Mediterranean lifestyle but also highlight the creativity and diversity of the French Riviera's culinary scene. Whether seeking a classic gourmet meal or an innovative gastronomic experience, the Riviera caters to all tastes with its range of upscale restaurants.

Journal

Winter on the Riviera: Quiet Escapes for the Off-Season Owner

Client guideJanuary 9, 2025