Wondering how to buy an apartment in Paris as an American (or any other non-French buyer)?
This guide explains the full process, from legal requirements and financing options to choosing the right neighborhood and understanding taxes.
Can Americans Buy Property in Paris?
Is it Legal for US Citizens to Buy in France?
Yes — there are no legal restrictions for Americans or any other non-EU citizens when it comes to buying property in France. Whether you’re looking for a pied-à-terre, a retirement home, or an investment property, you can own real estate in Paris just like a French citizen. That said, the buying process is different from the U.S., so being well-informed is crucial.
Key Advantages for American Buyers
Strong Dollar Exchange Rates
As of 2025, the USD-Euro exchange rate continues to favor American buyers, giving you more purchasing power in the Paris property market. A stronger dollar means that an apartment priced at €1,000,000 costs significantly less in USD than it did just a few years ago.
Paris’ Stable Property Market
Paris real estate market is known for its stability and resilience, even during global economic downturns. Limited housing supply, strict zoning laws, and constant international demand help ensure that property values remain strong over time.
High Rental Demand for Furnished Apartments
If you’re purchasing for investment, furnished long-term rentals are in high demand, particularly among students, expats, and professionals. Paris is a global hub for business, culture, and education — and demand for housing reflects that.
Step-by-Step Guide to Buying an Apartment in Paris as a Foreigner
Step 1 – Define Your Real Estate Goals
Before you begin browsing listings, clarify what kind of property fits your objectives:
- Primary Residence: Planning to move or retire in Paris? You may want a well-located apartment with proximity to schools, shops, and parks. You may want to live in a more residential area that is quiet at night and doesn’t attract a lot of tourists.
- Investment Property: Looking for rental yield? You’ll want to focus on high-demand neighborhoods with rental flexibility: Consider walkable areas with proximity to cultural sites or business districts.
- Second Home / Pied-à-terre: Choose a central, character-rich area that holds long-term value and convenience. Neighborhoods that offer charm, cafés, shops, and proximity to the things you’ll want to see and do while in Paris.
Understanding Property Types in Paris
- Haussmannian: Elegant 19th-century buildings with high ceilings, wood flooring, marble fireplaces, French door windows, and balconies (typically on the second and 5th floors).
- Art Deco and Art Nouveau: Turn of the century buildings with stylised geometric or plant designs incorporated in the design of the building. These are also typically large, elegant buildings with period features, similar to Haussmannian buildings.
- 16, 17th and 18th century buildings typically found in the oldest parts of Paris: These buildings were often built when society was highly divided between working class and nobles. Located in the 4th, 5th and 6th arrondissements of Paris, they often feature very high ceilings of 3 meters or more, stone walls, beams, and historically rated staircases. Elevators are less often available in these types of buildings.
Step 2 – Financing Options for American Buyers
Can Americans Get a Mortgage in France?
Yes, but the process differs from what you might expect in the U.S. French banks do lend to foreign buyers, but they typically require:
- A larger down payment (usually 20–30%, and depending on conditions, may be as high as 50%)
- Proof of regular monthly income, tax returns, and bank statements. Often assets, and commission-based, or variable income is not considered.
- A solid credit history and often a special French life insurance policy that pays off the mortgage in case something happens to you.
French Banks vs. US-Based International Mortgages
- French Banks often offer lower interest rates but have stricter documentation requirements.
- International brokers can connect you with specialist lenders who are familiar with expat clients but may charge higher fees.
💡 Tip: Get pre-approved for financing before making an offer — it will strengthen your position when negotiating, but it is not definitive because loans are not formally committed until a specific property is under contract and the purchase documents have been produced. This means you ultimately might not be granted a loan when you are already under contract.
Step 3 – Finding the Right Property
Where to Search for Properties in Paris?
- Real Estate agencies (agences immobilières), both local and international. Agencies in France do not work from a central database, or collaborate and share commissions with each other. That means you must approach each listing agency separately to see their individual offerings. A buyer’s agent can help simplify the process, saving you time, frustration and often, money.
- Off-market deals (biens off-market) often available through well-connected agents, or on public websites.
- Online listings (Seloger, LeBonCoin), although many good properties never make it online, and sell through interpersonal connections. There is no central database and dozens of websites that list properties in Paris.
Best Arrondissements for American Buyers
Luxury Buyers – 4th, 6th, 7th, 8th Arrondissements
- Think the historic Marais, Saint-Germain-des-Prés, the Eiffel Tower area, and the Golden Triangle — classic Paris at its finest.
Investment Potential – 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th, 12th Arrondissements
- Trendy, dynamic, and attractive for young professionals. Strong rental demand and growth potential.
Charming and More Affordable Pied-a-Terre Areas – 3rd, 5th, 11th, 12th, 14th Arrondissements
- More affordable, and adjacent to the most central, historic (and expensive) parts of Paris. You’ll find charming areas with shops, cafés, tree lined streets, and more spacious apartments for the price. Ideal for long-term living, and property value growth.
Family Friendly Areas – 7th, 15th, 16th, 17th Arrondissements
Located close to prestigious international schools, these areas offer quiet walkable neighborhoods with tree-lined streets, larger apartments, proximity to parks, cafés, and shops.
Step 4 – Understanding the Legal Process
What Documents Do Americans Need to Buy in France?
You’ll need:
- Passport
- Proof of income and employment (or assets)
- Bank statements
- Pre-approval letter if using a mortgage
- Tax returns from the U.S. (and France, if applicable)
The Role of the Notaire in Securing Your Purchase
In France, the notaire is a government-appointed lawyer (with fees set by the government) responsible for:
- Verifying legal status and property title.
- Drafting the Promesse de Vente and Compromis de vente (pre-sale agreement).
- Finalizing the Acte de Vente (deed of sale)
They act as a neutral third party — you can also choose your own notaire for additional oversight with no additional cost since they will split the fee.
Timeline:
- Offer accepted → Promesse signed (3-4 weeks).
- 10 day reflection period.
Financing secured → Final signing (~2-3 months later)
Working with a real estate agent can greatly simplify the buying process in France, especially for Americans unfamiliar with local legal procedures.
Step 5 – Taxes & Fees for American Buyers
What Taxes Do Americans Pay on French Property?
Notary Fees:
- Roughly 7-8% of the purchase price (including taxes and admin fees)
Property Taxes:
- Taxe Foncière (ownership tax): Annual, varies by district. Most people in Paris pay annually between 0.1% and 0.3% of the property’s value for the ownership tax.
- Taxe d’Habitation (residency tax): Only applicable if you live in the property full-time. Together both taxes total less than .5%.
Wealth Tax:
- Applies on properties valued at more than 1.3 million, but the first 800,000 euros of value is exempt:
Capital Gains Tax:
- If you sell the property and make a profit, capital gains tax applies. The rate of tax drops over time and disappears altogether if you own the property 22 years.
- Americans must report to both French and U.S. tax authorities, though double taxation agreements help reduce overlap.
- There is no capital gains tax if it is your primary residence.
- Licensed realtor fees are tax deductible when you sell.
💡 Pro Tip: Work with an international tax advisor familiar with France–U.S. treaties for optimal planning.
Conclusion
Buying an apartment in Paris as an American is absolutely possible and often a smart long-term move — but it requires careful preparation, financing strategy, and legal understanding.
Whether you’re searching for a romantic pied-à-terre, an income-generating rental, or your future home in the City of Light, the opportunities are there — especially when you work with experienced, English-speaking real estate experts.
Ready to find your perfect Parisian apartment?
Our team at Metropolitan Properties Paris is here to help.
As a trusted English-speaking real estate agency in Paris, we specialize in making property ownership easy for expats, investors, and international buyers.
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