What’s a market order and how can it help you buy your home in France?

Exchange rates stop for nobody, and these movements can be drastic and unpredictable, especially around major global events. In 2025, the GBP/EUR rate has been influenced by a mix of geopolitical tensions, shifting fiscal policies, and central bank decisions across Europe the US and the UK.

Earlier this year, the euro rose sharply after the European Union announced a €500 billion defence spending plan. At the same time, the British pound weakened due to disappointing UK economic data and growing expectations that the Bank of England might cut interest rates. These developments have created significant volatility in the GBP/EUR exchange rate.

Back in late February, £1 was worth around €1.212. By late April, the rate had dropped to around €1.1450. For someone looking to buy a property in France with a €250,000 budget, that shift could mean needing over £12,00 more—a significant impact on your purchasing power.

This kind of volatility, within the typical time period of a property purchase, can pose a real risk to your budget. But it can also present opportunities—if the rate moves in your favour. The key is being ready to act quickly.

How Can You Be Ready?

If you haven’t already, it’s wise to speak with a foreign exchange specialist like Moneycorp and open an account early in your property search. There’s no cost or obligation, but it gives you access to expert guidance and tools to monitor the market and manage your budget effectively.

Once you’ve found a property and signed the initial contract, you can plan how to manage your currency exposure until completion, often a process that takes several months. Some clients choose to lock in the exchange rate with a forward contract, while others prefer to target a better rate using a market order.

What Should I Know About Market Orders?

• A market order allows you to set a target exchange rate above the current market rate. If that rate is reached, your order is automatically fulfilled.
• This means you can take advantage of short-lived rate movements—even if they happen outside office hours.
• However, once the order is fulfilled, it’s locked in. If the rate improves further, you won’t benefit from the additional gain.
• You can also combine a market order with a stop-limit order, which protects you from the rate falling below a certain level—ideal for buyers who want both opportunity and security.

In today’s fast-moving market, staying informed and prepared is more important than ever. Whether you’re buying a holiday home or relocating permanently, managing your currency exposure could save you thousands—and give you peace of mind.

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