Hi there! My name is Elena, and I’m a personal assistant here on the stunning French Riviera. Over the years, I’ve helped many Brits settle into their dream homes in this sunny corner of France, so I know a thing or two about what’s involved in owning property here. Whether you already own a flat (or “apartment” as the locals call it) or are thinking about investing, let me walk you through some of the key things to know.

Taxes: The French Way of Saying “Bienvenue!”

First off, let’s talk about taxes. France is famous for its bureaucracy, and property ownership comes with a few fiscal obligations:

• Taxe Foncière: This is your annual property ownership tax. It’s based on the rental value of your property and can vary depending on the town.
• Taxe d’Habitation: Until recently, this was paid by the person living in the property (whether owner or tenant). For most people, it’s been phased out, but you might still pay it if you own a second home.
• Income Tax on Rentals: If you rent out your flat, income from that rent must be declared in France, even if you’re a UK tax resident.

What on Earth is a Syndic?

Here’s a term that might be new to you: the syndic de copropriété. This is the management company responsible for the communal areas in your building, like the hallway, lift, and shared garden.

As a property owner, you’re automatically part of the copropriété (co-ownership), and you’ll pay a share of the building’s maintenance costs. These fees can include everything from cleaning services to major repairs. Once a year, you’ll attend a general assembly, where decisions about the building are made. It’s very democratic but can be a bit daunting if your French isn’t up to scratch.

Owning in France vs. the UK

If you’ve owned property in the UK, the French system might feel quite different. For instance:

• Leasehold vs. Freehold: In the UK, you might own your flat but lease the land. In France, you typically own both (though shared ownership of communal spaces can feel a bit like leasehold).
• Notaries, Not Lawyers: In France, property purchases are handled by notaries, who act as impartial legal officers. This can feel unusual if you’re used to hiring your own solicitor.
• Inheritance Rules: France has strict inheritance laws. Even if you make a will, your children (or other relatives) may automatically inherit part of your property.

A Helping Hand Goes a Long Way

Owning property abroad can sometimes feel overwhelming, but it’s all part of the adventure! If you’re wondering about managing your syndic fees, navigating French tax returns, or even finding someone to check on your flat while you’re away, I’d love to help.

Drop me a message anytime if you have questions or just want to chat about life on the French Riviera. Who knows? We might even meet up for a coffee with a sea view!

Looking forward to hearing from you,
Elena