1. Why buy a place in France?
Buying a French home is a major financial decision, so its important to be clear about your objectives. Are you looking to make an investment, or do you plan to relocate and work, set up a business, or even retire? If your purchase is a holiday home, will you make long weekend trips, or lengthier stays? Answering these questions will help identify the type of property best suited to your needs, and its ideal location.
2. Where to buy your French home
Obviously were big fans of the Languedoc, but France has 21 other regions too! France is a huge country boasting a wide variety of landscapes, several climatic zones and numerous micro-climates; narrowing down your search area is key, and clarifying your criteria will help. Joe Laredos The Best Places to Buy a Home in France (published by Survival Books, 11.95, www.survivalbooks.net) is a good starting point. Note that plural on Places there are so many great spots in which to look, so keep a sense of perspective: you cant visit them all. Why not try the Languedoc for starters?
3. The location of your French property
Its been said a hundred times, but its worth...