How to Rent a Home in France

Navigating the process of renting a home in France for the first time can feel overwhelming. Numerous questions might arise: Should I consult a lawyer? Are appliances typically included in rentals? How can I discover quality rental properties? Which neighborhoods will best suit my needs? These are just the tip of the iceberg. Dive in for answers to these pressing questions and gain insights from our members who've made France their home.

"Relocating to a new country can be an exciting yet challenging experience, and one of the first tasks you'll face is finding a place to live. If you're planning to move to France, understanding the rental market is crucial. This guide will provide you with essential information about renting an apartment in France, from finding a property to understanding the legal requirements and costs involved.

How do you find a rental property in France?

There are several ways to find rental properties in France. Online property portals such as Seloger, Pap, and Leboncoin are popular and offer a wide range of listings. Local newspapers and real estate agencies are also good sources. If you're moving for work, your employer may provide assistance or even have company apartments available for rent.

Does France have an MLS type system?

France does not have a Multiple Listing Service (MLS) like in the United States. Instead, each real estate agency maintains its own listings. However, some online portals aggregate listings from multiple agencies, providing a similar function to an MLS.

Do brokers have licenses and how do I know if they are licensed?

Yes, real estate agents in France must be licensed. They should hold a "carte professionnelle" issued by the local Chamber of Commerce. You can ask to see this card to verify their credentials. Additionally, they should have professional liability insurance and a financial guarantee.

Should I buy or rent in France?

This decision depends on your personal circumstances, such as how long you plan to stay in France and your financial situation. Renting is often a good option for expats as it offers flexibility and less financial commitment. However, if you plan to stay long-term, buying could be a good investment.

Is it difficult to find rentals in France?

Finding a rental in France can be competitive, especially in popular cities like Paris. It's advisable to start your search well in advance and be prepared to act quickly when you find a suitable property. Having all your documents ready can also speed up the process.

What documents are required when renting an apartment in France?

When renting an apartment in France, you'll typically need to provide proof of income (such as pay slips or tax returns), proof of identity, and a bank reference. If you're a student or don't have a French income, you may need a guarantor. Some landlords may also ask for a letter from your employer or a character reference.

Do I need a lawyer when renting an apartment in France?

While it's not mandatory to have a lawyer when renting an apartment in France, it can be helpful, especially if you're not fluent in French. A lawyer can review the lease agreement and ensure you understand all the terms. The cost can vary, but expect to pay around €100-€200 per hour.

How long is the typical lease for?

The standard lease term in France is three years, but it can be broken earlier with proper notice. For furnished rentals, the minimum lease term is one year. Short-term rentals are also available, especially in tourist areas.

Do I have to pay a deposit when renting in France?

Yes, a security deposit is typically required when renting in France. For unfurnished apartments, the deposit is usually equivalent to one month's rent. For furnished apartments, it can be up to two months' rent.

What other upfront costs are there when renting?

Other upfront costs can include the first month's rent, agency fees (if you use a real estate agent), and possibly a guarantor's fee. You may also need to pay for a home insurance policy, which is mandatory in France.

Are utilities included in the rent?

Whether utilities are included in the rent can vary. In some cases, they may be included, but often they are not. If utilities are not included, you'll need to set them up and pay for them yourself. The cost can vary depending on the size of the apartment and your usage, but expect to pay around €100-€200 per month for electricity, gas, and water.

Are furnished or unfurnished rentals more popular in France?

Both furnished and unfurnished rentals are common in France. Furnished apartments typically include basic furniture, a refrigerator, and a stove. Unfurnished apartments may not include any appliances, not even a refrigerator or stove. The choice between furnished and unfurnished depends on your personal needs and budget," said one expat living in France.

Expats Talk about What Type of Housing They Live In

"Three storey town house with no garden - enables us to travel by car around Europe with no home-worries," said one expat living in Eymet.

Expats Talk about How they Found their Home

"My husband asked his new collegues about the neighborhoods. One of his collegues (from HR) helped us find our home, we did a lot ourselves and my father, who lives here already, helped us too," commented an expat living in Dijon.

"Our first place was determined because it was close to my work in Geneva, Switzerland but on the French side of the border. Colleagues at work told us it was less expensive to live in France. When I retired we moved to the Orleans area to be close to Paris without living in Paris (too much traffic, noise, polution typical of any big city in the world). We found this house to rent on a French real estate website which was large (for France), in a quiet neighborhood and close to shopping and other services. The added benefit is that our neighbors are all very, very nice and welcoming," said an expat in Orleans.

"I had an inside contact, so it was somewhat easy. If you aren't so lucky, I recommend a couple of websites: www.seloger.net and www.seloger.com and www.logic-immo.com. Local classified sections can be helpful, too. Var Matin and Nice Matin newspapers, etc," remarked one expat who made the move to Saint Raphael.

"One way to find a place to live in France is to search online and compare different listings. You can search websites like Immobilier.fr and SeLoger.com to find property listings. Additionally, you can search for a French real estate agent who can help you find a property in your desired area. You can also look for online forums where people post about their experiences in France, as well as ask for advice from locals. Another way to find a place to live is to reach out to contacts in France; people you know can provide tips on the best places to look for rental properties. Once you have narrowed down your choices, you can contact the landlords to see if you can view the property before deciding if it's the right place for you," explained one expat living in France.