Selling a Provençal Country House (Bastide) Between Private Individuals 🏡

Selling a Bastide in Provence Between Individuals: A Complete Guide

The Provençal bastide , typical of the South of France, is a sought-after property for its charm, history, and exceptional setting. These characterful houses, often surrounded by gardens and farmland, offer a unique lifestyle, blending tradition and modernity. If you have a bastide in Provence for sale and wish to sell it privately, here is a detailed guide to help you make the sale a success.

What is a Bastide in Provence? 🏡

A bastide is a large country house, usually located in the rural areas of Provence, often surrounded by farmland. These properties are famous for their traditional architecture, combining exposed stone, red-tiled roofs, and spacious interiors. Bastides are houses that have stood the test of time while retaining their authentic charm.

In Provence, bastides are idyllic places to live, offering an atmosphere of serenity, often nestled in magnificent natural landscapes, between lavender fields, vineyards, and hills. Selling a bastide privately allows for a more personal transaction experience, while avoiding agency fees.

Why sell a Provençal country house (Bastide) privately? 🤝

1. Save on agency fees 💰

One of the advantages of selling directly between individuals is reducing agency fees , which can amount to 5 to 7% of the sale price. Selling on your own allows you to keep a larger portion of the sale price.

2. Total control of the transaction 🔑

By choosing to sell your bastide directly, you retain complete control over the process. This includes managing viewings, negotiations, and legal aspects, allowing you to tailor the sale to your specific needs.

3. Confidentiality 🕵️

Selling privately guarantees confidentiality , often sought after for prestigious properties such as country houses. This allows you to limit the exposure of your property while controlling the information shared.

The Challenges of Selling a Bastide in Provence Between Private Individuals ⚠️

1. Estimated selling price 🏷️

Estimating the value of a bastide in Provence can be a challenge. The value of this type of property depends on several criteria: the surface area, the general condition, the location, but also elements such as the history of the property and the quality of its amenities.

• Real estate expertise : To avoid undervaluing or overvaluing the property, it is often advisable to consult a real estate expert or a notary specializing in character properties.

2. Sale preparation and presentation 💡

Selling a bastide requires careful presentation. You must prepare the property for viewings, which includes:

• Repairing minor imperfections : Repainting, repairing broken tiles, maintaining outdoor spaces.
• Highlighting the assets : The garden, the swimming pool, the spacious interiors, or even the breathtaking view.

3. Managing negotiations and visits 🏠

Buyers of bastides are often demanding. You will therefore need to manage negotiations and answer all technical questions concerning the property, its maintenance, and its potential. It is important not to rush during negotiations and to be open while remaining firm on the price.

4. Legal and tax aspects 📜

Selling a bastide involves legal and administrative procedures that must be followed. This includes drafting a preliminary sales agreement, carrying out technical surveys, and complying with local land ownership laws.

Steps to Selling a Bastide in Provence Between Individuals 🔑

1. Property evaluation 💼

The evaluation is the first crucial step in setting a realistic and attractive price. To do this:

• Consult a real estate expert : Although it is a sale between private individuals, a real estate expert can help you determine a fair price based on the local market.
• Compare with similar properties : Analyze recent sales of similar bastides in Provence to get an idea of ​​the value of your property.

2. Preparing the property for sale 🛠️

Before putting your bastide up for sale, make sure it is ready for viewings:

• Maintain outdoor spaces : Mow the lawn, weed the paths, and take care of the gardens.
• Carry out minor renovation work : Repaint windows, repair roofs, etc.
• Highlight the assets : If your country house has a swimming pool, a large plot of land or an exceptional view, showcase these features.

3. Create an attractive ad ✍️

The advertisement for the sale of your bastide is essential to attract buyers. Write a and captivating description :

• Highlight the location : Indicate the proximity to typical villages, local markets, tourist attractions and the surrounding nature.
• Highlight the architectural features : Talk about the fine materials, exposed stone, high ceilings, etc.
• Use professional photos : Beautiful images are crucial to showcasing your property in the best possible light.

4. Organize visits and answer questions 🏡

Once the listing is published, you will begin receiving viewing requests. During these viewings:

• Be welcoming and informative : Buyers will appreciate it if you answer their questions about the history of the bastide, its construction, and its maintenance.
• Highlight the living environment : If your country house is close to picturesque landscapes or vineyards, do not hesitate to show off the surroundings.

5. Negotiate the price 💬

Negotiations can be a delicate process, especially with well-informed potential buyers. Here are a few tips:

• Know your minimum price : Be prepared to negotiate, but know how far you can go without jeopardizing the sale.
• Remain flexible : If you have room to maneuver, be open to discussions.
• Don't rush : Take your time to negotiate and don't give in too quickly.

6. Finalizing the sale 📑

Once you have found a buyer and an agreement has been reached, it's time to finalize the sale. This includes:

• Drafting the preliminary sales agreement : This step may require the assistance of a notary or a specialist lawyer.
• Technical assessments : Before signing the deed of sale, all mandatory assessments must be carried out (lead, asbestos, termites, energy performance, etc.).

Practical Tips for a Successful Sale 💡

• Consult a notary : Although it is a sale between private individuals, it is advisable to work with a notary for the drafting of legal documents and the securing of the transaction.
• Pay attention to detail : Buyers of bastides are often demanding people. Make sure that every detail of your property is well-maintained.
• Prepare for the virtual tour : More and more buyers prefer virtual tours before visiting in person. Make sure your listing includes high-quality photos and videos.

Conclusion 🎯

Selling a Provençal country house (bastide) privately can be a rewarding experience, but it requires careful preparation and effective management of the process. By properly assessing your property, preparing it for sale, and being flexible during negotiations, you can maximize your chances of success. The key lies in showcasing the property effectively and professionally managing each step, even without using an agency.

Read also: Publish Your Luxury Property Listing: Criteria and Procedure for Owners