I'm thinking of moving to Brittany, but I don't speak French and need help. Any suggestions ?

Question

I want to buy a house in Brittany, but I'm worried about dealing with the bureaucracy when I can't speak French.

Answer 1

Some people I know used Verrall associates in Kent who have bi-lingual finder/negotiator/consultants in Brittany, who arranged everything, picked them up from the ferry, took them on a house finding tour, found them their dream home, even arranged for local tradesman to quote for some alterations they wanted, sorted out a school for the children, got them registered with a doctor and dentist, and made an appointment to open an account at a bank in the nearest town.

They really took all the stress out of getting settled, I wish I had found a company like that when I came to France who could do everything A to Z.

I think the web address is http://www.wehelpyoumovetobrittany.co.uk

Hope it helps!

Answer 2

Option 1

Learn french using free resources

http://youtube.com/watch?v=tYO5aw4wPHE

Option 2

Get a translator. Offer $x money.

Once in brittany go to a local university and ask an english professor for: a: them to help you, b: a very competent student c: some professional organization they recommend..

Answer 3

I can try to explain to you.  I'm french, but I live in Paris and not in Brittany, and I don't know very well the best places to buy a house. I know better Normandy. But if you want some precise informations, I can find some friends in Brittany.

Anyway, I can already tell you that when you buy a house or a flat in France, you are obliged to sign a contract made by a "notaire" and it will cost you about 13% I think.

I think first you have to know where you want to buy : near the sea ? In a little village or in a town ? a place to sail ?...It depends also on how much money you have, if you want to buy a new house or an old one, the size of course.......

Maybe, the best would be to spend one week in different places and to stay 1 or 2 days in different places. So you can  choose the place you prefer and then ask in a estate agency ?

All the agencies will go with you to visit some houses and they will help you for all the papers.