Once we have been able to discuss your requirements in detail, we will suggest an inspection trip as no amount of description can do justice to this unspoilt Region. Michael will then be able to show you building plots that are currently available-especially those which match any previously expressed preferences; also, completed villas as well as those in course of construction. It will also be possible to arrange to meet clients for whom we have recently completed projects, if you so wish.
We have found that some of our clients make up their minds on the spot. Others decide after they have returned home, in which case the next step of signing the pre-contract can be dealt with by proxy.

The pre-contract (compromis de vent) is a promise by both sides to sell and buy at the agreed price. (It discourages gazumping!) The Client has to put down approx. 10% of the purchase price as a deposit. This is held by the Notaire, who acts for both the buyer and vendor in France and is equally responsible to each. The Client can still back out, but in that case would lose the deposit.

It usually takes about ten weeks between the Compromis and completion, but during that time we set about helping the Client to decide exactly what sort of Villa they want. We currently use three firms of builders, who are in competition with each other, all of whom are fully covered by French Government insurance requirements. They each have a range of designs you can see on this web site, but are equally willing to amend or adapt any of their of them to suit a client, and as our Clients are usually back home by then, Our Lewes and Lodeve Offices work closely by fax and e-mail to facilitate this process.

Once having settled on a builder and design, we will then get the chosen builder to give a firm quote to build that particular design on that plot- including all connections. This may call for further discussion and amendment, but once settled the builder will then go ahead at no cost to the Client and obtain detailed planning consent. The aim, of course, is that this will come through about the same time as completion of the land purchase.
With regard to the latter, there are a variety of legal formalities which are completed by the Notaire and if it is not possible for the Client to attend the signing, they can arrange for a Procreation (limited power of attorney) to be prepared which authorises the Notaire to complete on their behalf.

Construction itself usually it takes about six months from start to finish. Michael attends all sites in course of construction daily, dealing with any queries and consulting the Client regarding matters of choice. He will advise when the various stages due for payment are reached and supply photographs on a regular basis to show the Client the progress being made.

Payments to the builder are usually paid in stages as your Villa is being built. A general guideline is as follows;

5% Deposit on signature of contract
5% Foundations
12% First Elevation
10% Second Elevation
5% Timberwork
5% Watertight
22% First Fix
11% Flooring
10% Second Fix
14% Completion
1 % delivery

You are welcome, of course, to visit as often as you like. Such is particularly appreciated before construction starts to indicate to the builder exactly how they want the villa orientated on the site, and later to visit the various showrooms with Michael to choose tiles, bathroom fittings and kitchens.
He will also advise on such things as pools, landscaping, and maintenance after completion and will arrange insurance at the appropriate time as well as the all important ten year guarantee on completion.