Frequently Asked Questions
Is the appraisal of my property free?
Yes. We offer a free, no-obligation appraisal.
It includes:
An on-site visit to assess the condition of the property, its strengths, weaknesses, and geographical location.
In addition to the appraisal itself, our agency will provide personalized advice to optimize the sale of your property.
Can I sell my property even if it is still rented?
Yes, an owner can legally sell an apartment under lease, but certain conditions must be met.
- The owner can choose to give notice to the tenant to sell the property vacant, or sell it with the tenant in place.
- Note that selling an apartment with a tenant does not automatically terminate the rental contract.
Our agency will advise you on the best strategy according to your situation.
When is the right time to sell?
There is no “perfect moment,” but rather an opportune time, which depends on your project and market conditions.
Our agency analyzes local trends and advises you on the most favorable period to optimize your sale.
What is the process for buying real estate in France as a foreigner?
Prepare your real estate project as a non-resident:
- Determine your budget and financing options
- Visit properties and make an offer
- Prepare your financing file
- Sign a preliminary sales agreement (compromise or promise to sell)
- If necessary, obtain a mortgage
- Sign the deed of sale with a notary
- Receive the keys: you officially become the owner.
We assist international buyers at every step: administrative procedures, opening a bank account, coordination with the notary, for a smooth and secure purchase.
Are there additional or hidden costs when buying in France?
There are no “hidden” fees, but certain costs are added to the purchase price. Buyers should anticipate various additional fees often unknown:
- Notary fees, transfer taxes, bank guarantees, administrative fees…
- These costs can represent up to 10% of the total transaction amount.
- Also consider renovations, co-ownership charges, and possible compliance upgrades.
Our agency explains these elements from the start, so you know exactly what to expect: no unpleasant surprises.
What are property taxes on the French Riviera?
On the French Riviera, as elsewhere in France, owners must pay two main taxes:
- Property tax: payable annually, amount varies depending on the municipality and property characteristics.
- Tourist tax: abolished for primary residences, but may still apply to secondary homes.
Our agency will inform you precisely of the amounts applicable to your property.
What documents are required to rent a property?
To complete a rental application, tenants generally need to provide:
- Identification document
- Last three pay slips or proof of income
- Latest tax notice
- Proof of residence
- Employment contract or employer certificate
- For a guarantor: the same documents as the tenant
- Depending on the situation (expatriate, etc.), other documents may be requested
Our agency assists you in preparing a clear and compliant rental file.
Why sell through Hermitage Riviera?
Selling with Hermitage Riviera means choosing an agency with extensive experience in the French Riviera market.
- We provide a free appraisal based on recent sales of comparable properties, considering the current market.
- We develop a tailored marketing plan with monthly reports detailing inquiries, visits, and client feedback.
- We strive to achieve the agreed sale price.
- We use a professional photographer to optimize the property presentation.
- Photographs are used to create marketing materials: brochures, ads, and online content.
With Hermitage Riviera, you benefit from a safer sale at the best price, thanks to our recognized expertise.
What services do you offer?
Our agency supports you at every stage of your real estate project, with a full range of services:
- Sale and rental of properties
- Free and confidential property appraisal
- Property enhancement (professional photos, premium listings)
- Targeted marketing and distribution to qualified clients
- Handling administrative, legal, and notarial procedures
- Search for properties matching your criteria
- Management of administrative and legal formalities
We leverage our expertise in the French Riviera market to provide a smooth, professional, and personalized experience.
How much are agency fees for selling?
Our fees are transparent and defined in advance:
- Sale of an apartment or villa: 5 to 6% including VAT of the sale price
- Sale of land: 10% including VAT of the sale price
These fees cover all our services: appraisal, evaluation, marketing, visits, administrative procedures, and support until notarized signing.
How much are agency fees for rentals?
Our fees vary depending on the type of rental:
- Seasonal rental — 25% including VAT
- Primary residence — €13/m² shared by owner and tenant
- Annual rental (secondary residence) — 12% including VAT of annual rent shared by landlord and tenant
- Property management — 12% including VAT of annual rent charged to landlord
Fees are the responsibility of the seller or landlord, unless otherwise specified in the mandate.
How long does it take to sell my property?
On average, a property sells in 3 to 6 months on the French Riviera, depending on price, location, and market demand.
A well-priced, well-presented, and well-located property generally sells faster.
Our agency advises on the best strategy to reduce time to sale.
What are the selling timelines for luxury real estate?
The selling timeline for luxury properties varies. On average: 3 to 9 months.
Steps:
- Preparation and marketing (1 to 3 months)
- Finding buyers (3 to 6 months)
- Negotiation and preliminary checks (1 to 3 months)
- Finalization with the notary (3 to 4 months)
Our agency adopts a personalized strategy to optimize visibility and reduce timelines while maintaining confidentiality.
How do you determine the value of a luxury property?
We combine professional analysis, market knowledge, and assessment of rare features unique to exceptional properties.
Beyond essential criteria (location, size, rooms), unique equipment and assets impact luxury property value: terrace, garden, pool, design, fine materials, technology, etc.
- Location: a key factor.
- Rarity of features in the region increases value.
- Analysis of recent comparable luxury properties.
- Local market trends and demand level.
- Precise location: neighborhood, exposure, accessibility, privacy.
- High-end amenities and finishes.
- View and environment: sea, tranquility, no overlooking.
- Volumes: area, terraces, pool, ceiling height.
- Exclusivity, history, renovation or extension potential.
How is my property appraisal conducted?
Property evaluation requires a tailored approach.
- We assess the address, view, architecture, exposure, areas, and comparable properties visited.
- We analyze the local market and sales over the last 18 months.
- We consider the precise location: neighborhood, orientation, accessibility, privacy.
- We evaluate the environment: open or sea view, tranquility, proximity to beaches and the port.
Each property is studied individually to provide a reliable and market-consistent appraisal for luxury real estate.
How do you promote your properties?
We apply a comprehensive strategy for maximum visibility in France and internationally:
- Distribution on national and international portals
- Network of clients and partners
- Presentation to our database of qualified buyers
- High-end marketing tools: photos, videos, virtual tours, brochures
- Social media campaigns
- Professional photography and polished presentation
- Collaboration with international real estate partners
We adapt our strategy to ensure effective promotion under the best conditions.
Do you assist with inheritance or donation procedures?
Yes. We assist in the sale or transfer of property acquired through inheritance or donation.
- Coordination with the notary
- Verification of required documents
- Property appraisal
- Strategic advice tailored to the family and legal situation
- Support until the signing of the authentic deed
Our role is to simplify the process and guide you smoothly.