Choosing the right plot of land and a good builder is essential. Before buying a piece of land, ask to meet with your notaire or the notaire in charge of the sale. He or she can answer your questions and look into the matter more closely to ensure that you are fully informed before you make a final commitment. Is the land suitable for building? Is it appropriate for your project in terms of zoning restrictions (the height of construction, pre-emptive rights, the colour of your shutters, etc.)? What is its actual value? Are there easements on the property (housing development regulations or specifications, right of passage for neighbours, common ownership of fencing, etc.)? What added expenses are involved in acquiring the property (tax owed to the central government, professional fees, VAT, mortgage)? What is the best way of going about the purchase: joint ownership? an investment partnership? tontine ownership? Then there’s the matter of the builder. Ask your friends and family: you’re bound to know someone who’s used the services of a home builder in the past. There are strict laws governing home construction contracts, but it’s always best to be prudent. There are two types of contracts for the construction of a detached house. The first is a contract with no house plan – you, or an architect, will be responsible for the layout of the home. The second type, in which the house plan is included with the contract, is more common. This is the contract used by most builders, who offer a selection of houses. All you need to do is choose the one you want and pay the builder. But first you should learn more about the process and consider your options. The contract must include certain information that is designed to protect you. You, or your notaire, should check to be sure that this information is included in the contract you sign. Most important, the contract should include a description of the property and a reference to the certificate of title, information on the insurance policy against construction damage, proof of any reimbursement or delivery guarantees made by the builder, consistency issues and technical specifications of the house to be built (miscellaneous connections and networks, interior and exterior fittings), the construction price, payment procedures, the building permit and the timetable for completion. It’s also wise to indicate in the contract whether you need a loan. You can then back out of the contract if your credit application is rejected. In addition, bear in mind that French law provides for a seven-day “cooling-off” period. Once you sign the contract, a copy must be delivered to you in person or by mail for just this purpose. Use this seven-day period to think things over one last time. Thereafter, you will have made a final commitment. Lastly, if the builder offers to sell you the land as well, another type of contract is required, one for the sale of property under construction. If you think this will apply to you, don’t sign the contract before consulting your notaire, since he or she must verify the transaction if it is to be considered valid. And if you have decided to hire a builder to build your house, contact a notaire before making a commitment.