4th July 2009
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Your French Holiday Home

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Welcome to FrenchEntrée's Maison Secondaire zone. When it comes to dreaming, having a holiday home in France is at the top of the list. If you're thinking of taking the plunge or have already done so, this zone is here to help.
Do you need to open a French bank account? Here's why it is probably a good idea and how to go about it.
For advice on connecting to water, electricity, gas plus the internet and TV in France, see utilities
You will need French holiday home insurance, whether your property is just for you or you plan to rent it out.
A swimming pool is a must? Then make sure you know about the French pool safety laws.
We also have tips on how to rent out your French holiday home.
And if you're in need of inspiration take a look at our real lives.

A Gîte in France

Stone House
Everything you need to know about starting, running and marketing a gîte in France.

Where to Shop in France

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Looking for DIY materials, furniture and accessories? Here's
where to look

Renovation & Decoration in France

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Renovating your second home in France? For a comprehensive guide to everything from hiring an artisan to planning laws and techniques, see Renovation & Decoration

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Maison Secondaire

Buying and enjoying your French holiday home

Whether you're planning to buy a second home in France or already have one, our Maison Secondaire zone is packed with advice, useful tips and real life stories.

If you're still undecided where to buy your second home, then why not take a look at FrenchEntrée's guide to the regions of France

Once you've made a decision on where you would like to buy in France, see what's available at our extensive Property database

For information on how to get to France by plane, ferry, rail and car see Travel & Transport

+++++ PRACTICAL DETAILS +++++

Help and advice with organising the essentials at your second home in France

Your own holiday home for less than €35,000

IRM Super MercureMobile home parks can be found across all regions of France, and homes can set you back anywhere between €13,000 and €35,000 depending on type, location and park schemes. Here we introduce you to some of the companies offering mobile homes in France. more...

Beginner's Guide to Buying French Property

French Farmhouse This Guide has been written to give you a general step-by-step overview of the property buying process. It includes information about estate agents, the notaire, contracts, clauses, surveys, mortgages and much more. more...

Tax liability on French holiday home rental income

David FranksMany owners like to let out their second homes in France when they are not using them. But what are the tax implications for this? David Franks, Chief Executive of Blevins Franks, explains...more...

How to Set-Up a Website for Your French Holiday Home

Template based websites can look greatIt’s an easy decision to harness the power of the Internet to market your French holiday home, but don’t underestimate the importance of effective presentation and promotion of your website. Here, we provide some guidance on getting started with your site and how to get potential customers to view your carefully crafted pages. more...

Now is the time to grab a bargain holiday home in France

BK Bluebird Seville 2009One way to save on the amount you spend on your family holidays each year would be to invest in a holiday home of your own, thereby not only providing you and your family with years of relaxing holidays but also enabling you to stay in a home-from-home environment that you can tailor to suit your individual needs.more...

The FrenchEntrée guide to searching for property in France

Looking for property in FranceMany of the same house-hunting rules apply to those buying a second home in France as to those looking to move permanently - especially as many holiday home owners go on to become residents. Here the FrenchEntrée team offers practical advice about how to decide what to buy and where – and how to go about looking for itmore...

Buying a holiday home in France ...?

house in FranceA holiday home in France is a great idea but like all good things, it takes some planning and a little effort to make it work. Here are a few practical tips to help you get the most out of your maison secondaire more...

Property taxes in France

house euro moneyTaxe foncière, taxe d’habitation...the taxes you will need to pay on your second home in France more...

French holiday home insurance

house accidentIf you don't plan to live in your second home for much of the year it's important that your insurance takes this into account. And if you want to let it, you will need insurance for that too...more...

Opening a French bank account

.Having a French bank account will make buying and looking after your second home much easier. Here's how to go about opening a bank account in Francemore...

Electricity, water and telephone...

telephone illustrationAs with your full-time home, your second home will need to be connected up to all the utilities, and perhaps the internet and TV more...

Pool security in France - it's the law

swimming pool picFor many people, a second home in France is not complete without a swimming pool. Pool security, however, is a legal must in France. There are four government approved methods - here is an explanation of the pros and cons of fencing, alarms, covers and abris.more...

Long Term Rental Tips - Getting the most from your property

Buy before you rent in franceIf you’re letting your property out in France you might want to consider longer-term lets, especially over the long dark winter months. Ross Husband of RentaplaceinFrance.com offers his advice on how to make the most of your letting potential more...

+++++ REAL LIVES +++++

Thinking of buying a second home in France? Be inspired by those who have already done it

'I was only coming to take a look....'

Jims house thumb One February Jim came to France just to see what kind of properties were available. Back in the UK he and his wife had decided he would only look not buy. But did that happen? Heck, no...
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'Building our own French holiday home - from 1,400 km away!'

Quelle Vue! For most people buying a house that already has four walls and a garden is complicated enough. But not Angela Bennett. She and her family decided to build their own... more

'Before I knew it I had phoned an estate agent!'

It's mine!One moment Julie Adair was eating her lunch at her desk. The next she was looking at her deam home in France... more...
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Stop septic tank smells!
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Property Management – est 2002
LBVPeople you can trust to look after your property when you’re not around. Exceptional service at competitive prices. The one stop shop solution for second home owners in France.
Website Design for Gites and B&Bs - Free Trial
Simplicity WebsitesSimplicity Websites offer a website creation service specifically for guest and rental accommodation in France. There's a no obligation two-month free trial on offer. Get your French property online today!
New Telephone Service
One Bill LogoOne Bill allows you to buy all of your telecom needs from a single provider at the lowest prices. All with full customer service in English.
Swimming pools at affordable prices
Shaped PoolWe have been selling and installing pools in France for over 17 years. Let us give you a free quotation for your pool project.
Is your house insured?
French Holiday HomesPeace of mind when your French holiday home is left unoccupied or holiday let. Comprehensive French house insurance policies in English. - Get a quote
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Regions of France Property Buyers Guides

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