There are numerous costs and charges associated with the purchase of your property in France. These costs can vary depending on the type of property you are buying (off-plan, or re-sale) and by the amount of the loan you obtain from a French bank. Agent's Fees: Generally real estate agents' fees are around 5 percent of the purchase price and will be included in the compromis de vente. Some French mortgage providers will only finance the agency fees if the cost is rolled up into the selling price and not separated out.

Notary Fees: These can vary between around 3 percent for a new build and around 7 percent for a re-sale. You should check with your notary to the exact amount of the notary fees payable. Notary fees are payable on the day of signing the acte authentique and are not financed by the lending bank. Make sure you have budgeted for the correct amount of fees and confirm that your notary has included all land registry fees due.

Bank Arrangement Fee: French banks charge a mortgage arrangement fee of between 700 Euro and 1,200 Euro. This fee includes the cost of a compulsory valuation survey on the property you intend to finance. The bank arrangement fee is usually payable within one month of the mortgage coming into force and will normally be deducted automatically from your French bank account.

Land Registry Fee: If a French loan is used then additional fees and registration costs are payable to the notary for registering the charge against the property at the bureau des hypotheques, which can amount to up to two percent of the amount borrowed. Check with your notary for confirmation of the exact sum. This fee is payable at the same time as the notary fees on the day of signing the acte authentique.

French Bank Account: A French bank will normally charge around 90 Euro a year for running a current account. This service should also include internet access to your account.

FMX French Mortgage Advice: Check with FMX who can advise you early on if any adjustments are necessary to the compromis in order for a French bank to finance the agency fees.