Buying in France? Here’s How to Navigate Currency Fluctuations with Confidence

If you’re in the middle of buying a property in France, you’re probably feeling a mix of excitement and nerves. It’s a big step—and one that involves a lot of moving parts. Among the legal paperwork, planning trips, and dreaming about your new home, there’s one factor that often goes without the necessary attention, which actually has one of the impact on your budget: the exchange rate.

Right now, the GBP/EUR rate is sitting around 1.154 (09/09/2025), which is considerably lower than the highs we saw earlier this year. Back in February, the rate peaked at 1.2120, meaning the pound had much stronger buying power. If you’re transferring funds now, you might find that your euros are costing you more than expected.

Why This Matters for Your Property Budget

Currency markets can be unpredictable. Over the past few months, we’ve seen the pound lose ground against the euro due to a mix of global economic shifts, interest rate changes, and political developments. These fluctuations can happen quickly—and they can affect how much your property ends up costing in pounds.

For example, a €250,000 property would have cost you £206,300 at February’s rate. At today’s rate, that same property costs £216,500—a difference of over £10,000. That’s a significant change, especially when you’re already managing other costs like legal fees, renovations, or travel.

Support That Makes a Difference

This is where working with a currency specialist can really help. Rather than trying to time the market on your own, you’ll have someone in your corner who understands the landscape and can guide you through your options.

At Moneycorp, for example, you’ll be supported by a dedicated account manager who will:

· Keep an eye on the market for you

· Help you understand how rate changes could affect your budget

· Offer tools to protect your funds from further volatility

It’s not just about getting a good rate—it’s about feeling confident and informed throughout the process.

Tools to Help You Stay in Control

Here are a few ways a currency specialist can help you manage your exposure:

· Forward Contracts Lock in today’s rate for a future payment. This gives you peace of mind, knowing exactly how much your property will cost in pounds—even if the market shifts before completion. (A deposit may be required to secure a forward rate)

· Market Orders Set a target rate and automatically buy when the market hits it. You can also set a lower limit to protect against further drops. This is great if you have a bit of flexibility and want to make the most of any improvements.

· Spot Contracts Exchange funds at the current rate for immediate transfers—ideal for deposits or urgent payments.

· Rate Alerts Get notified when your preferred rate is reached, so you can act quickly and make informed decisions.

It’s Never Too Early to Plan Ahead

Whether you’re just starting your property journey or already preparing for completion, it’s worth speaking to a currency specialist early on. They’ll help you:

· Set a realistic and protected budget

· Avoid last-minute surprises

· Make the most of favourable movements

· Stay informed every step of the way

Buying a home abroad is a big milestone, and having the right support can make the experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Even in a less favourable market, you’re not powerless. With the right guidance and tools, you can take control of your currency exchange and protect your budget. If you’re buying in France and want to explore your options, now’s a great time to reach out to a specialist and start the conversation.

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