How to Choose a Real Estate Agency in France

1. Real Estate Agencies in France: A Fully Regulated Profession

In France, the activity of a real estate agent is strictly regulated by the Hoguet Law. Every authorised agency must hold:

• Professional Transaction Card (Carte Professionnelle Transaction),

• professional liability insurance,

• financial guarantees,

• registration with the Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI).

These requirements ensure that a licensed agency operates in full compliance with the law, under the state supervision, and assumes complete responsibility for the accuracy and integrity of its actions.

For the client, this framework provides security, transparency, and protection at every stage of the transaction.

2. How Clients Choose a Real Estate Agency

In France, buyers are entirely free in their choice: they may contact as many agencies as they wish, or they may work exclusively with a single agency that represents their interests and coordinates the entire process. Both approaches are fully acceptable.

However, many international buyers prefer to collaborate with one selected agency that:

• saves time,

• protects the buyer’s interests,

• provides access to the entire market through the MLS inter-agency network,

• manages the transaction from start to finish, including post-purchase support.

This model is often compared to choosing a family doctor: you select a trusted professional who guides you through everything related to your property.

3. MLS / Inter-Agence: Access the Entire Market Through a Single Agency

The MLS (Multiple Listing Service) is a network for inter-agency cooperation. In France — and particularly on the French Riviera — one of the largest European networks operates under the name MLS Côte d’Azur / Inter-Agence, bringing together more than 600 agencies (information available on mlsfrance.org).

What does this offer to the buyer?

• access to more than 10,000 properties, both exclusive and inter-agency listings,

• visibility over the entire market, rather than listings limited to a single agency,

• unified data standards and accurate, up-to-date pricing,

• elimination of duplicate listings and disorganised search processes.

How does MLS work for the buyer?

If an agency is a member of MLS:

• you work with one dedicated agent,

• the agent accesses the full real estate database,

• the agent organises viewings for any MLS property, even those listed by other agencies,

• the agent coordinate negotiations and all documentation on your behalf.

4. Co-Brokered Transactions and Commissions

The case when two agencies are involved in viewings or a transaction (the buyer’s agency and the seller’s agency):

• The agencies split the commission that is generally paid by the seller,

• The price for the buyer remains unchanged,

• The legal structure of the transaction remains fully transparent,

This is standard practice in France and does not create any additional expenses for the buyer.

5. The Agent as the Buyer’s Representative

A reliable real estate agency in France is far more than someone who simply «opens doors for viewings». A professional agent acts as your dedicated representative, providing comprehensive support throughout the entire process, including:

• Selecting properties that match your criteria from their own database, MLS, and inter-agency agreements,

• Analysing neighbourhoods, construction quality, and property-related expenses,

• Organising all viewings,

• Conducting negotiations on price and terms,

• Preparing purchase offers,

• Coordinating with the notary,

• Managing all stages of the transaction,

• Assisting with the setup of utility accounts (electricity, water, internet, gas),

• Helping open a bank account,

• Arranging property insurance,

• Advising on property registration,

• When needed — providing post-sale property management: maintenance, repairs, seasonal inspections, rental management, and property oversight.

This is why it is essential to rely on a professional who will guide you over the long term and handle all matters related to your property.

6. Key Criteria When Choosing a Real Estate Agency

• Possession of a valid Professional Transaction Card (Carte T),

• Membership in the MLS / Inter-Agence network,

• A clear commitment to acting solely in the client’s best interests,

• Proven experience working with international buyers,

• Availability of post-sale services,

• Clear and transparent commission structure,

• Professional and responsive communication,

• Strong reputation and client recommendations.

Conclusion

Choosing the right agency is a decisive step in purchasing property in France. Buyers are free to work with multiple agencies, but in many cases it is more efficient to rely on a single professional — especially when the agency is part of the MLS network and offers a full range of services.

Such an agent becomes your representative, advisor, and support contact at every stage, from searching for a property and negotiating the terms to completing the transaction and managing the property thereafter. This approach ensures a secure and seamless process, particularly for international clients.