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Buying property without being physically present is possible… but beware of the “traps.” Many expatriates or foreign investors today successfully complete their real estate projects in France remotely thanks to digital tools and representation mandates.
However, this approach requires particular vigilance to avoid some common mistakes.
Looking for tailored support for your real estate project in Paris? Get in touch with us today.
Real estate ads are designed to attract, not to reveal everything. Without a physical visit, it’s crucial to have a personalized video tour to understand the property’s reality: noise levels, overlooking neighbors, actual condition of materials, brightness, etc.
At Fairway, we provide tailor-made video tours (according to your requests), which you can watch at any time.
When buying remotely, buyers often focus on the “inside” of the apartment, but the environment is just as important. Poorly managed co-ownership, upcoming building works, or an unappealing neighborhood can ruin a good investment.
Reviewing general assembly minutes, auditing charges, and studying the area are essential checks to be performed by your trusted advisor.
From abroad, banking procedures can take longer—opening an account, preparing a mortgage file, providing translations, and handling powers of attorney.
Good to know: French banks often require a higher down payment from non-residents (20–40%).
Even if everything looks smooth, don’t overlook legal due diligence: easements, zoning regulations, mandatory inspections, charges, or existing tenants (if an investment).
Best practice: Work with a notary familiar with remote transactions, closely collaborating with your agent.
This is likely the riskiest mistake: not having a single, responsive, committed point of contact to coordinate all stakeholders (seller, notary, banker, surveyor, etc.).
At Fairway Luxury Real Estate, each client has a dedicated personal advisor, with customized support—even across your time zone. Video calls, WhatsApp, email—we stay available throughout the process.
- Relying only on online listings without a personalized video tour
- Forgetting to analyze the co-ownership and neighborhood
- Poorly anticipating financing and banking delays
- Skipping legal verifications
- Going it alone without a trusted point of contact
Buying remotely is possible, but you must avoid rushing, overlooking legal details, underestimating financing hurdles, or proceeding without structured support. With an experienced partner, you turn risks into peace of mind and efficiency.
Our specialty is assisting expatriates and non-residents with their real estate projects in France, with a human and rigorous approach:
- Video tours tailored to your criteria
- Banking and notarial coordination
- On-the-ground presence in Paris with 100% remote accessibility
- A single expert contact dedicated to the Paris market
- Extended availability, including evenings/weekends depending on your time zone
A recent example
A couple based in Toronto bought a pied-à-terre in Paris’s 6th district. We managed everything: visits, offer, in-person pre-visit before signing the preliminary contract, financing, and final signing remotely. Today, the property is rented out while they await their return planned for 2032.
Remote property purchase can be simple, fast, and effective—provided you’re well supported. Don’t let distance become a source of stress or mistakes: surround yourself with trusted professionals who can handle every detail for you.
Do you have a property purchase project in France from abroad?
Contact us for a first personalized consultation or write to us at bonjour@fairwayluxuryrealestate.com.
1. Can you buy property in France without coming in person?
Yes, every step can be managed remotely. However, at Fairway, our clients always visit the property before the final signature. Everything is organized so this single trip is centralized and efficient.
2. How to secure financing from abroad?
Banks usually require a 20–40% down payment. A complete, well-prepared, and translated file can speed up approval.
3. What legal guarantees are essential?
Inspections, zoning, easements, co-ownership documents, charge compliance… all must be reviewed by your notary and agent.
4. What tools make remote buying easier?
Video tours, electronic signatures, notarial power of attorney, video calls, and online document platforms.
5. Why work with Fairway Luxury Real Estate?
Because we specialize in supporting expatriates, with a single advisor and an organization designed around your constraints.
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