France has higher transaction costs than most of southern Europe but a very stable framework. This guide covers what to budget at purchase, during ownership and on sale. General information only.
This is general information, not tax, legal or financial advice. Rates and rules are summarised as of early 2026, vary by region and property value, and change frequently. Onora does not verify figures or give advice — always confirm with a qualified local adviser before acting. See our disclaimer.
At a glance
| Tax | Indicative basis (early 2026) |
|---|---|
| "Frais de notaire" (resale) | ~7–8% of price (incl. transfer duties) |
| New-build acquisition costs | ~2–3% (VAT already in the price) |
| Annual tax (taxe foncière) | varies by commune; second homes also pay taxe d'habitation |
| Rental income (non-resident) | from 20% (then 30%) + social charges |
| Capital gains | 19% + 17.2% social charges, with taper relief |
| IFI wealth tax | on real-estate net worth above €1.3M |
At purchase
On a resale, the "frais de notaire" — mostly transfer duties collected by the notaire — run to roughly 7–8% of the price. On a new-build from a developer, VAT is already included in the price and acquisition costs are lower, around 2–3%.
During ownership
Taxe foncière is the annual owner's property tax, set locally and rising in many communes. The taxe d'habitation was abolished for primary residences but still applies to second homes — relevant for most international buyers.
Rental income
Non-residents are taxed on French rental income at a minimum rate (20% up to a threshold, then 30%), plus social charges of 17.2% — reduced to 7.5% for individuals affiliated to an EU/EEA social-security system. Furnished-letting (LMNP) regimes can change the picture; take advice.
On sale
Capital gains are taxed at 19% plus 17.2% social charges, but taper relief reduces the taxable gain with holding period — full exemption from income tax after ~22 years and from social charges after ~30 years.
Wealth tax (IFI)
France levies the Impôt sur la Fortune Immobilière on net real-estate assets above €1.3M, on a progressive scale — a genuine consideration for prime purchases.
Residency
France has no "Golden Visa" property route; residency runs through standard long-stay visa and residence-permit channels, assessed separately from any purchase.
In short
- Budget ~7–8% transaction costs on resale; second homes still pay taxe d'habitation.
- Rental income carries income tax plus social charges; capital gains taper to exemption over time.
- IFI wealth tax applies above €1.3M of French real estate.
This is general information, not tax, legal or financial advice. Rates and rules are summarised as of early 2026, vary by region and property value, and change frequently. Onora does not verify figures or give advice — always confirm with a qualified local adviser before acting. See our disclaimer.
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