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If you are looking for good value for money, consider looking for property in areas that you haven't previously visited and are not familiar with. Certain areas command premiums only because they are widely known and popular. You can often get an equivalent property in another region for much less.
You should also consider getting to know
area before you buy. Talk to people who have already purchased their home, holiday in area, or even rent for a period and meet neighbours before you finalise your decision. As with any property purchase, your neighbours will be a part of your life once you've bought your new home.
Try to negotiate. Contact a local valuer to get an impartial opinion. This will cost money, but will provide you with a neutral view of properties value, and possibly a stronger bargaining position so may pay for itself many times over.
Most importantly, consider taking independent legal advice, through another notary or a UK based specialist. The vendor instructs notary who acts in sale of property. They are acting in conveyance of title only and not for either side. You would be well advised to appoint a specialist to act specifically in your interest, and finally, just as in UK get property inspected by a qualified buildings surveyor. Unexpected bills could take shine off your dream home very quickly.
Copyright 2005 Oliver Phillips. May be freely reproduced "as-is" for private and commercial use.
Oliver Phillips works for PFS France (http://www.propertyforsalefrance.co.uk/) a business that helps French property owners advertise and sell, and potential buyers find, some of the finest and best cared for traditional French properties available.
