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My experience over many years is that when British buyers think they are getting a bargain they are always buying a problem as well. French sellers prefer to sell to a local French buyer as it is simpler. However if there is a problem which the locals know about they may decide to reduce the price and look for a foreign buyer.

 

Here are a few random examples

 

1. Long running dispute with a neighbour over boundary and allegations fence moved 1 metre into neighbours garden. Seller did not disclose this to buyer and sold knowing litigation imminent. All the locals knew about this bitter dispute.

 

2. Allegations a pool house with guest accomodation built too close to neighbour's property, neighbour asking for it to be demolished.

 

3. No right of way over neighbours land to access car parking spaces.

 

4. Outbuildings constructed without planning permission.

 

5. Villa with views over open countryside but a developer about to apply for planning permission for 500 new houses next to the villa. The whole village knew about this but seller did not mention it to English buyer.

 

6. Wooden floor infected with termites covered up by seller just before sale to hinder inspection.

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frenchtax@da-tax.co.uk

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