French Property Types

The type of property you buy in France may be similar to the types of properties available at home or may be quite different. Houses, flats and apartments in towns, for example, may be quite similar to what you are used to at home especially if you buy a new build. To a certain extent this depends on where the property will be located and how much you have to spend.

Other current popular French property types include:

Chateaux - there are a lot of chateaux in France and many of them are not the huge castle type mansions that you may imagine. It is, of course, possible to buy a large property here that looks like a stately home but it is also possible to find a chateau that is relatively small (i.e. around the size of a family home). In many cases chateaux here will need renovation and/or repair due to their age.
Farmhouses - properties here can vary in size and condition and will offer a range of local facilities depending on where they are located. Some farmhouses will need complete renovation whilst others will be more or less ready to move in to. Farmhouses often come with a fair bit of land attached.
Gites - Gites were traditionally used as cottages for farm workers and they are a popular option for a holiday home. Some Gites will be fully functional and ready to go whilst others may need some work. Some properties here will be situated on farmland owned by other people and others will be free-standing.
Maison Bourgeoise - these properties were originally designed for wealthy individuals so can appear quite elegant and imposing. They tend to be sized like large family homes (or larger) and generally come with some land attached. Like the chateau a Maison Bourgeoise is often in need of renovation or repair.
Villas and apartments - many French seaside resorts will have a range of villas and apartments if you want to live/stay near the coast. Many of these will be new builds but it is also possible to find more traditional older options here.