Don’t Get Lost in Translation: French Real Estate Terms Explained

Understanding all the real estate terms in France is almost like learning a new language. Whether you’re picturing yourself sipping wine in a chic Parisian apartment, relaxing in a rustic countryside cottage, or basking in the sun at a villa in the South of France, the first real challenge is understanding the terminology. Because, surprise, surprise, the terms can be different depending on each French real estate market‘s peculiarities. 

In Paris, the most common types of residential homes are apartments and condominiums tucked within imposing historic buildings. These multi-story beauties, many from the elegant Haussmannian era, feature high ceilings, big windows, and lovely wrought-iron balconies. Studios and one-bedroom apartments (known as “studios” and “appartements une pièce”) are perfect for singles and young professionals, while two-bedroom and larger apartments (“appartements deux pièces” and beyond) are great for families.

Parisian apartments often come with delightful touches like parquet floors, decorative moldings, and cozy fireplaces. You’ll also find pied-à-terre properties, which are ideal little getaways for frequent visitors to the city. And for those looking for more space and privacy, the elegant townhouses (or “hôtels particuliers”) offer a wonderful, though more exclusive, option.

In the beautiful French countryside, you’ll find a delightful variety of homes. One of the most iconic types is the “mas”, a traditional farmhouse found in Provence, characterized by its rustic stone walls, terracotta roofs, and lavender-filled gardens. Then there’s the “longère”, a long, narrow house common in Brittany and Normandy, typically made of local stone and designed with practicality and cozy living in mind.

You’ll also come across “bastides”, which are elegant country houses in the South of France, often set amidst vineyards and olive groves, exuding a timeless Mediterranean charm. Châteaux are another countryside gem – grand, historical castles or manor houses that offer a taste of aristocratic life, often surrounded by lush parklands.

For those seeking simplicity, “cottages” or “gîtes” provide a cozy, homely atmosphere, perfect for a peaceful retreat. These homes, whether nestled in rolling hills, beside picturesque rivers, or within charming villages, each have their own unique stories and characters, making the French countryside a dream come true for Americans. 

All this can be a bit overwhelming. But fear not, I’ve been through the confusing, often amusing, maze of French real estate lingo, and I’m here to translate the jargon into something we can all understand. 

 

Home Buying Real Estate Terms in France Explained

1. Real Estate Agent (Agent Immobilier): In both the US and France, real estate agents are professionals who help individuals buy, sell, or rent properties. They provide market insights, property evaluations, and negotiation services, earning commissions from the transactions they facilitate. The commission is usually 3- 8% in France and is negotiated beforehand and is paid by the seller upon the successful completion of the sale.
2. Appraisal (Expertise Immobilière): This term refers to the valuation of a property by an expert. In the US, appraisals are often required for mortgage approval, while in France, an "expertise immobilière" serves a similar purpose in validating the property's value for loans and sales.
3. Closing Costs (Emolument d’acte ): Closing costs in the US include various fees such as loan origination, title insurance, and escrow fees. In France, "emolument d’acte" include notary fees, taxes, and administrative costs and are generally higher than in the the US.
4. Down Payment (dépôt de garantie or acompte): Both terms describe the initial deposit payment made by the buyer when purchasing a property. While the required percentage can vary, both US and French buyers typically need to provide a substantial upfront payment. In France, this deposit is paid when the initial sales agreement, known as the "compromis de vente" is signed.
5. Mortgage (un prêt hypothécaire ): Mortgages in both countries involve borrowing money to buy property, secured by the property itself. In both countries, mortgages serve the same purpose, but the application process, terms and interest rates differ.
6. Homeowners Association (HOA) / Syndicat de Copropriété: These organizations manage common areas and enforce rules within a community. In France, the "syndicat de copropriété" functions similarly to an HOA, handling the maintenance, cleanliness, gardening and regulations for shared property spaces.
7. Deed (Les actes de Propriété/les titres de propriété): A deed is a legal document that signifies property ownership. In the US, deeds are recorded at county offices, while in France, "les actes de propriété" is recorded by a notary and filed with the local land registry (Service de la Publicité Foncière). This ensures that the transfer of ownership is officially recorded and publicized. The notary also retains a copy of the deed for future reference.
8. Escrow (Séquestre): Escrow involves a neutral third-party holding funds or documents until all conditions of a transaction are met. In France, "séquestre" arrangements serve the same function, ensuring secure and fair property transactions.
9. Foreclosure (Saisie Immobilière): Foreclosure is the process of taking possession of a property due to the owner's failure to make mortgage payments. In France, "saisie immobilière" is the equivalent process, enforcing property seizure for debt recovery.
10. Title Insurance (Assurance de Titre): Title insurance protects against potential disputes over property ownership. While common in the US, this type of insurance is less prevalent in France, where such legalities are checked by notaries.

Comparing Property Types in France vs US

1. Single-Family Home (Maison Individuelle): In the US and France, a single-family home is a detached residential structure with several bedrooms meant for one family. It stands alone without sharing walls with other homes, though styles and sizes can vary greatly between the two countries.
2. Apartment (Appartement): An apartment in both countries refers to a unit within a multi-family building. Apartments are common in urban areas and come in various sizes, from studios to multiple-bedroom units. Apartments are on one level and in high apartment blocks there are elevators to the different floors. Parking is usually underground or on the street.
3. Duplex (Duplex): A duplex is a building divided into two separate living units. Both countries use the same term. These properties often feature similar layouts, offering two households separate living spaces with private entrances within one structure.
4. Townhouse (Maison de Ville): A townhouse, known as "maison de ville" in France, is a multi-story home that shares walls with adjacent properties. These are typically found in urban areas and offer accommodation for a single family or a blend of communal living with private amenities.
5. Condominium (Condo) / Copropriété: Condominiums, or "copropriétés" in France, are individually owned units within a larger building or complex with shared common areas. Ownership structures and communal responsibilities are similar in both countries.
6. Pied-à-terre (Pied-à-terre): A pied-à-terre is a small secondary residence, usually located in a city, used for occasional stays or just during the working week instead of commuting. While more commonly referenced in France, the concept is known in the US as well, often for business or leisure travelers.
7. Loft (Loft): Lofts are large, open spaces usually converted in commercial buildings, characterized by high ceilings and an industrial aesthetic. This type of property is popular in both the US and France for its unique style and spacious feel.
8. Villa (Villa): A villa is a luxurious, often spacious detached house, usually found in affluent or vacation areas. Villas are known for their comfort and amenities which often include private pools or jacuzzis, outside dining areas and summer kitchens, making them desirable in both the US and France.
9. Studio (Studio): A studio is a small apartment with a single main room that serves as the living area, bedroom, and kitchen – but usually a separate bathroom. Studios are popular among singles and students in both countries due to their affordability and compact design.

Terms Describing Property Size and Layout in France

1. Bedroom (Chambre): Bedrooms in both the US and France serve the same purpose as sleeping quarters. Terms like "master bedroom" (chambre principale) and "guest room" (chambre d'amis) are commonly used to specify the type of bedroom. If the bedroom has a private ensuite bathroom in France this is described as " la chambre avec salle de bain attenante" – unusual in older French properties.
2. Living Room (Salon): The living room, or "salon" in France, is where daily activities and entertaining guests occur. It's a central part of the home in both cultures, often featuring comfortable seating and entertainment options.
3. Kitchen (Cuisine): Kitchens are where food is prepared and cooked. In both the US and France, kitchens can range from compact spaces to large, fully-equipped rooms with a dining area, depending on the home's size and layout.
4. Bathroom (Salle de Bains): Bathrooms, known as "salles de bains" in France, include a bath or shower, sink, and often a toilet. Some homes may have separate rooms for the toilet, known as "WC" in France.
5. Dining Room (Salle à Manger): The dining room, or "salle à manger," is where meals are eaten. In both countries, this room can be formal or informal, depending on the home's style and the family's preferences.
6. Attic (Grenier): An attic, or "grenier" in France, is a space directly below the roof used for storage or as extra living space when converted. It's common in both countries- especially in older homes.
7. Basement (Sous-sol): Basements, known as "sous-sols" in France, are lower levels of a building used for storage, as a utility room for washing machines and driers, or as additional living space. Basements can be fully finished or left as utility areas. In France, many older houses also have a ‘cave’ meaning cellar – to store a selection of wines.
8. Floor (Level) / Étage: The floors of a building are referred to as "étages" in France. The ground floor is "rez-de-chaussée" in France, and subsequent floors are numbered similarly to the US system. In France, apartment numbers begin with the floor number e.g 302 is the second apartment on the third floor.
9. Balcony (Balcon): A balcony, or "balcon," is an outdoor platform extending from a building, typically accessible from the salon in the unit by large sliding glass doors. Balconies are common in both countries, especially in urban settings.
10. Terrace (Terrasse): A terrace, or "terrasse," is a larger outdoor space, often found on rooftops or ground levels. Terraces are used for relaxation and entertainment in both the US and France, providing a connection to the outdoors and in France they are usually decorated with plenty of live plants and comfortable chairs.

France-Specific Real Estate Terms and Their US Equivalent

1. Compromis de Vente (Purchase Agreement): The "compromis de vente" is a legally binding preliminary sales agreement similar to a purchase agreement in the US. Both documents outline the terms and conditions of the sale and bind both parties to the transaction. If a buyer pulls out of the deal, they forfeit their deposit.
2. Promesse de Vente (Option to Purchase): The "promesse de vente" is a unilateral promise to sell, similar to an option to purchase in the US. It primarily binds the seller to the agreed terms, allowing the buyer a specific period to complete the purchase.
3. Diagnostic de Performance Énergétique (DPE) / Energy Performance Certificate: The DPE is required in France to rate a property's energy efficiency, similar to energy performance certificates in the US, which provide information on energy consumption and efficiency. In France, the energy efficiency ratings range from A- G, with  B-C being achievable in new properties. Older properties have much lower ratings and in this case, ‘D’ is considered workable.
4. Loi Carrez (No Direct Equivalent): The "Loi Carrez" requires accurate measurement of the living area in properties sold in co-ownership. While the US does not have a direct equivalent, similar transparency is often provided through detailed property descriptions and floor plans. In France, "dimensions de la pièce" or simply "dimensions" are typically measured in meters (m) for the length, width, and height. These measurements are typically given in square meters (m²) for the total floor area of a property and individual rooms
5. Taxe Foncière (Property Tax): The "taxe foncière" is an annual property tax paid by property owners, based on the rental value of the property and local tax rates.
6. Taxe d'Habitation (No Direct Equivalent): The "taxe d'habitation" is a residence tax paid by occupants,In France  the tax is levied on  both house owners and renters. The tax funds local services such as garbage collection, street lighting and recreational facilities. The amount of tax is based on the theoretical rental value of the property. Taxe d'habitation is currently being phased out in France.  While the US does not have a direct equivalent, it is similar to local taxes that residents pay based on property value and amenities.
7. Viager (Life Estate): The "viager" is a real estate transaction where the buyer pays the seller a lump sum and regular payments until the seller's death. This concept is similar to a life estate in the US, where property rights are retained until death, though payment structures differ.
8. Permis de Construire (Building Permit): The "permis de construire" is a building permit required for new construction or major modifications, similar to building permits in the US that ensure compliance with local planning and zoning regulations.
9. Garantie Décennale (Builder Warranty): The "garantie décennale" provides a ten-year warranty on structural integrity, similar to long-term builder warranties in the US that cover against major defects and structural issues.
10. Syndic de Copropriété (Property Manager): The "syndic de copropriété" manages common areas and administrative tasks in a condominium. The role is akin to property managers in the US who handle maintenance and administration for HOA communities.
11. Mise en Copropriété (Condominium Conversion): "Mise en copropriété" is the process of converting a building into individual ownership units, similar to condominium conversions in the US that involve legal and administrative steps to establish separate property units.
12. Assemblée Générale (Annual HOA Meeting): The "assemblée générale" is the annual general meeting of condominium co-owners, similar to annual HOA meetings in the US where members discuss and vote on management and maintenance issues.
13. Charges de Copropriété  (HOA Dues):"Charges de copropriété" are the annual charges for the upkeep of common areas, similar to HOA dues in the US. These fees cover a wide range of services, from cleaning and maintenance to utilities in shared spaces.
14. Cahier des Charges (CC&Rs): The "cahier des charges" outlines the rules and regulations for a condominium or housing development, similar to the CC&Rs in US HOAs that govern the use and maintenance of properties within a community.

The Terms to Learn When Renting in France

1. Lease Agreement (contrat de location or contrat de bail): A lease agreement, or "contrat de bail" in France, is a contract that outlines the rental terms between the tenant and the landlord. It includes details such as the rent amount, duration, and tenant responsibilities, similar to lease agreements in the US.
2. Security Deposit (Dépôt de Garantie): Both in the US and France, a security deposit is required to cover potential damages while renting. Known as "dépôt de garantie" in France, this deposit is usually equivalent to one or two months' rent and is refundable if no damages occur.
3. Rent (Loyer): Rent, called "loyer" in France, is the monthly payment made by the tenant to the landlord. The amount and payment frequency are similar in both countries, covering the cost of occupying the property.
4. Notice Period (Préavis): The notice period, or "préavis," is the time a tenant must give before ending the lease. In both countries, this period typically ranges from one to three months, depending on the lease terms and local regulations.
5. Furnished Apartment (Appartement Meublé): Furnished apartments, or "appartements meublés," include essential furniture, white goods and appliances. These rentals often come with shorter lease terms and slightly higher rent in both the US and France.
6. Unfurnished Apartment (Appartement Non-Meublé): Unfurnished apartments, known as "appartements non-meublés," do not include furniture. They are common in both countries and usually have longer lease terms compared to furnished units.
7. Rent Control (Encadrement des Loyers): Rent control measures, called "encadrement des loyers" in France, regulate rent increases to ensure affordability. These measures exist in certain cities in both the US and France to protect tenants from excessive rent hikes.
8. Tenant (Locataire): A tenant, or "locataire," is the person renting the property. Tenants in both countries have similar rights and responsibilities, including paying rent on time and maintaining the property's condition.
9. Landlord (Propriétaire / Bailleur): The landlord, referred to as "propriétaire" or "bailleur" in France, is the property owner who rents out the unit. Landlords have similar duties in both countries, such as maintaining the property and respecting tenant rights.
10. Subletting (Sous-location): Subletting, known as "sous-location," is when a tenant rents out the property to another person. This practice usually requires the landlord's approval in both the US and France to ensure compliance with the lease terms.
11. Guarantor (Garant): A guarantor, or "garant," is a person who guarantees the tenant's lease obligations, similar to a cosigner in the US. In France, the guarantor often needs to meet specific income criteria to qualify.
12. Utility Bills (factures de services): Utility bills cover additional costs for services like water, electricity, and gas ("factures d'électricité, d'eau, et de gaz"). These charges may be included in the rent or billed separately in both countries.
13. Move-In Inspection (État des Lieux d'Entrée): A move-in inspection, or "état des lieux d'entrée," documents the property's condition before the tenant moves in. This practice helps avoid disputes over damages when the tenant leaves and is standard in both the US and France.
14. Move-Out Inspection (État des Lieux de Sortie): The move-out inspection, or "état des lieux de sortie," checks the property's condition when the tenant leaves. It ensures any damages beyond normal wear and tear are noted and potentially deducted from the security deposit.
15. Rental Insurance (Assurance Habitation): Rental insurance, known as "assurance habitation," covers property damage, the tenant's personal property and liability. Some policies also cover legal protection to cover legal fees if a dispute with the landlord should arise. In France, assurance habitation is mandatory for tenants, providing coverage similar to renters insurance in the US.

You may also be interested to find out how much it costs to rent in France or how to rent an apartment in Paris.