Leasing property in France

Leasing considerations will include:

• Duration of a Lease - A lease contract on an existing property (Bail) is normally offered to the tenant for a period of three years; it is however possible to opt for a one year lease contract.
• Taxe foncière - This is a 'local property tax' that is to be paid annually by the registered property owner. Buyers of newly built property have a 2-year exemption from this tax.
• Taxe d'habitation - This is an 'occupancy tax' paid to the local French tax authorities by the occupant / tenant of the property. In the case of leaseback properties, the 'taxe d'habitation' is paid by the management company.
• Service charges - The owner of the property is liable for the maintenance charges relating to the building and grounds.
• Insurance & utility bills - The building insurance is included in the service charges. The occupier of the property is liable for the contents insurance and the utility bills (water, electricity, gas etc.)