Know the types of real estate in France

The French real estate market offers a wide variety of properties. Each type or legal situation of the property has advantages and disadvantages that should be understood before making a decision. Refer to the "Market Observatory" section to learn more about the French real estate market.

The different types of residential properties

• Apartment: studio, T2, T3, duplex... Each type of apartment has its own specificities and uses.
• Detached or semi-detached house: more space, a garden, but often more maintenance.
• Atypical properties: lofts, barges, renovated barns, etc.

The specificities of new and old

• New properties: energy advantages, builder's guarantees, reduced notary fees.
• Old properties: charming, central locations, but often more work.

Different legal situations of property

In France, real estate can fall under several distinct legal situations, each governed by specific rules.

• Freehold ownership: the most common form, offering the owner an absolute right to use, enjoy and dispose of the property.
• Co-ownership: concerns buildings divided into lots, where each owner owns a private portion and a share of the common portions.
• Bare ownership: the owner owns the property without being able to enjoy it immediately, while the usufruct allows you to benefit from it without being the full owner of it.
• Emphyteutic leases or joint ownership: specific regimes applicable in certain specific contexts.

Each situation has distinct legal, tax and asset implications that should be understood before any acquisition.

Useful Info Your real estate agent will need to Tell you the exact location of each property on offer, and present you with the constraints and advantages.