Useful Information

Foreign Currency Exchange Calculator

The exchange rates displayed above should only be used as a guide. For live market rates please call 0800 783 4313 or +44 (0) 20 7989 0000 for a no obligation quote. This facility is powered by Foreign Currency Exchange Ltd., a specialist currency provider who can save you time, money and protect your funds against currency fluctuation.

Useful Information

View All Our Properties on Google Maps

All of French Property Connect’s properties are now featured on Google Maps. On the sidebar on each page of this website you will see a small version of the map. Click on the link ‘View French Property Connect Properties for Sale in Poitou Charentes’ and a larger map will appear, with all the full features of Google Maps including views of street maps and satellite images, the ability to zoom into the area and route planners to get detailed instructions on how to get to the property. You can also save this map to your own maps, really useful if you’re planning a househunting trip in the region. All of our properties have their own reference number (for instance FPC01, FPC02, etc), so if you’re interested in any of the properties or would like to view a couple of them then please contact us on 0033 (0)6 66 74 43 49  quoting the properties by reference numbers you would like to view. We hope this will be a helpful addition to finding your dream home in the Poitou-Charentes region of France.

Useful Information

What You Need to Know About Renovating Properties in France

Renovation Projects  – More and more people are looking into buying properties in France that are in need of renovating, as there are a lot of bargains to be had.  However its always a good idea to check before you make any offers that the work required doesn’t exceed you budget, and of course you need to consider all the relevant documentation required. 

Planning Permission – Always check for planning permission before committing to any French house for sale, a Certificat d’Urbanisme CU details the permission allowed to individual homes.  You should verify this document and regulations at the local town hall before you part with any money.

 Planning Process – For minor building work, you shouldn’t need to apply for planning permission, but to be on the safe side always check before any modifications are made with the Town Hall. In some cases however you will need to apply for a building permit, the Town Hall will pass the information to the local planning office, and then make the final approval after.  Depending on the information given and details of building work required the process can take up to 2 to 3 months to complete.  If however your project exceeds building of 170 square metres then you must use a qualified architect to forward your plans.

Renovating Listed Properties – Renovating listed French properties is not an easy or straightforward process. First of all you must have an inspection and environmental declaration describing how it would affect the local area.  There are rules of the use of using local building materials for historic homes, and also specific standards, which tradesmen must adhere to.

Renovation costs – Labour costs can be very high depending on building required for example roofing, and masonry, so its always best to get at least 3 different quotes (un devis) and by French law you can ask for a time clause to be included into a contract which binds the builder a price for completion period (prix global).

Useful Information

Foreign Currency Exchange Rates, Good Advice Saves You Money

When you are looking to buy property abroad, one of the most commonly overlooked factors is the current exchange rates. This can have a huge impact on the overall cost of your property. By using a specialist currency broker for your transfers you can save both time and money.

For more information and frequently asked questions about foreign currency exchange then see our fuller article in the tag  ’Useful Information’ plus use our currency exchange calculator. http://www.frenchpropertyconnect.com/useful-information/foreign-currency-exchange/