The back story 1
In-depth stories behind the list.
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The back story
Buying in Paris: the back story
Haussmann apartments, Left Bank mansions and the notaire: where people buy in Paris, and how buying works in France.

7 of the best · Paris, France
How buying works in France, from the preliminary contract to the notaire, and agencies with Paris offices. We never publish prices.
Our 7 favourites, listed A–Z · Updated October 2026
Browse by type
Three of our favourites from this list, vetted by people who know and love Paris.
In-depth stories behind the list.
The back story
Haussmann apartments, Left Bank mansions and the notaire: where people buy in Paris, and how buying works in France.
Who to talk to, and what to check.
The French government’s guide
The French government’s official guidance on obtaining property and land-registry information.