Housing in France
Finding housing is one of the biggest challenges for new arrivals, particularly in Paris. Understanding the system is crucial.
Rental Market Overview
Paris challenges:
- Demand exceeds supply by 60%+
- Available listings dropped 60% in 5 years
- Competition is fierce—be ready to decide quickly
- Scams exist—never pay before viewing
Rest of France: Much easier market with more availability and lower prices.
The Garant System
Almost all landlords require a "garant" (guarantor):
Requirements for garant:
- French tax resident
- Earning at least 3x the monthly rent
- Signs legal commitment to cover unpaid rent
If you don't have a French garant:
| Service | Type | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visale | Government | Free | For under-30s, new employees, students |
| Garantme | Private | ~3.5% annual rent | Anyone eligible |
| Smartgarant | Private | Similar to Garantme | Alternative option |
| Offer more deposit | Negotiation | 3-6 months | Some landlords accept |
Typical Costs
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Security deposit | 1-2 months rent |
| Agency fee | 1 month rent (if used) |
| First month rent | In advance |
| Home insurance | €100-300/year (mandatory) |
| Moving in total | 3-4 months rent upfront |
Where to Search
Major platforms:
- SeLoger.com
- Leboncoin.fr (like Craigslist, beware scams)
- PAP.fr (private ads, no agency fee)
- Bien'ici
- Facebook groups (Appartement à louer Paris, etc.)
Tips:
- Set alerts for new listings
- Respond immediately (within hours)
- Prepare complete "dossier" (application file) in advance
Application Dossier
Standard documents for rental applications:
- ID (passport/visa)
- Last 3 payslips or proof of income
- Employment contract or proof of status
- Last 3 bank statements
- Previous landlord reference
- Tax returns (avis d'imposition)
- Garant documentation
Lease Terms
Standard lease: 3 years for unfurnished (bail nu), 1 year for furnished (bail meublé)
Furnished advantages for expats:
- Shorter commitment
- Easier to find without long French history
- Often includes utilities
- Slightly higher rent but all-inclusive
Can Foreigners Buy Property?
Yes, with no restrictions. Non-EU citizens can freely purchase property in France. However:
- Does NOT grant residence rights
- Must have French bank account for mortgage
- Notaire fees 7-8% of purchase price
- Capital gains tax applies on sale
Pro Tips
- •Prepare complete dossier before searching—you'll need to move fast
- •Use Visale (free) or Garantme if you lack French guarantor
- •Furnished rentals are easier for expats with 1-year leases
- •Never send money before viewing property in person
- •Home insurance (assurance habitation) is mandatory for all tenants
Have questions about housing in France?