US customers | Ab Home

Buying a French Property as an American: Everything You Need to Know

Welcome to Perles de Bossey — a rare collection of contemporary homes nestled in the French Alps, just 15 minutes from Geneva.

Created with care and intention, these residences embody European beauty, stability, and a harmonious way of living.

For our American clients drawn to the charm of Europe and the serenity of alpine life, owning a home in France is more accessible than you might imagine.

This guide will gently walk you through each step of the process and answer all your questions — so you can feel fully informed and at ease as you begin your journey toward a home in Perles de Bossey.

Can Americans Buy Property in France?

Yes. There are no restrictions for U.S. citizens buying property in France. You can:

- Buy in your own name or through a company (LLC, SCI)

- Use it as a second home, rental property, or primary residence

- Own it fully and permanently (freehold)

Step-by-Step: Buying a Home in France

1. Reservation – You reserve the property and pay a deposit (5-10%) to the notaire

2. Legal checks – The notaire performs due diligence (permits, boundaries, ownership)

3. Preliminary contract – You sign the "Compromis de Vente" (binding contract)

4. Final signing – Within 2–3 months, you sign the "Acte de Vente" and take full ownership

Documents You Will Need

- Valid passport

- Proof of address (utility bill or ID)

- Proof of funds (bank letter or statement)

- Source of funds declaration (anti-money laundering compliance)

Do I Need a Visa to Buy Property?

No. You don’t need a visa or French residency to purchase property.

- You can visit France for up to 90 days under the Schengen visa waiver

- To stay longer, apply for a long-stay visa later (VLS-TS)

- Owning a property helps if you later seek residency

More info: https://france-visas.gouv.fr

Property Taxes, Fees & Financing

- Notaire fees: 7-8% of the property price (includes registration tax)

- Annual property tax: ~€1,000 to €2,000 depending on property

- Income tax: If rented out, income is taxable (France-US tax treaty applies)

- Wealth tax (IFI): Applies if net French real estate > €1.3M

Can I Get a Mortgage in France?

Yes, Americans can apply for French mortgages. Conditions:

- Up to 70% loan-to-value

- Requires income documentation & credit history

- We work with bilingual mortgage brokers who can assist you

Why Buy Through ABHOME?

- Local expertise with international experience

- English-speaking team

- Partnerships with notaires, banks, and tax advisors

- Full transparency and security throughout the purchase process

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I live in the home year-round?

A: Yes, and if you want to stay more than 90 days, you can apply for a long-stay visa.

Q: Is the property freehold?

A: Yes, you fully own it and can pass it on or resell it freely.

Q: Can I rent it out?

A: Yes. Seasonal and long-term rentals are allowed.

Q: Will I pay double taxes?

A: No. The France-U.S. tax treaty prevents double taxation.

Q: Will the transaction be in English?

A: Contracts are in French by law, but we provide full translations and English-speaking support.

Start Your French Property Journey

We make international buying stress-free.

- Download our U.S. Buyer’s Guide

- Schedule a private video consultation

- Chat with our English-speaking team

Your Alpine dream awaits.

ABHOME | Luxury Property Specialists on the French-Swiss Border

Brochure. Perles de Bossey