New in the Midi-Life Aude and Languedoc Property News:
Languedoc has the fastest Growing House Prices in France.14th March.
Languedoc-The poorest and most sought after Region in France 8th February
The Forward March of Ryanair Halted?.1st Feb
New in the Midi-Life Aude Property Guide this Week:14th March
Notaires- who are they and what they do.
Compromis du Vente- what it is and things to look out for.

Midi-Life Buyers Guide
We have had so may enquiries for basic information on the how to buy a house that I have decided to condense what I know into a simple guide. See the right hand navigation bar for the links or start with the Finding a house page by clicking here.

House searching in the Aude, Languedoc. The best way to start is right here, at your computer. We have listed a wide range of estate agents in the Aude, Languedoc, an hours surfing around them will give you a taste of what is avalaible at at what prices.Need some expert French speaking advice, click here.
See our Guide about Finding a House. A subscription to the magazine French Property News would also be a good idea. Don't be put off by the website, the magazine is very useful, and the property seaches on the site are also good but at the high end price wise. We provide a superb service helping first time buyers negociate the House Buying Process in the Aude.
Clause Tontine:
A way around French inheritance law or a potential nightmare waiting to happen? An explaination of the pros and cons of this piece of ancient law Read More

Because of the nature of the Languedoc landscape, Pyrenees on one side, Montagne Noir the other, and the Aude's climate and ecology, we are subject to flooding after heavy rainfall in certain area. If you have found the idea house, with a beautiful river at the foot of the garden check out this site to make sure that the river isn't sometimes at the foot of the stairs. Site of the Languedoc Environment Department

Midi-Life Guide to the Aude, Languedoc Property Market.
All you ever wanted to know about the type of properties available in the Aude Department of the Languedoc. Click here
What are Notaires and what do they do?
See the Midi-Life Notaire section

And another thing to watch out for. The other key problem in old houses is termites. In the Aude and throughout the Languedoc by law a seller has to have a professional survey of the property done, in advance of signing the final Acte. Should no report be forthcoming then refuse to sign. If the report indicates the presence of the little horrors then you essentially have three choices, firstly you can back out of the deal with no loss of money-just time. Secondly the price can be adjusted to reflect the cost of the work, get a quote from a respected builder/pest control company depending on the extent of the infestation and damage first. Last but not least the seller can undertake the work and produce proof of completion before the Acte is finally signed and money handed over.

The key thing is to always remember never to sign legal papers on a promise that things will be sorted out later. You may get what you want but should you run into trouble the wheels of French justice turn slowly. It could be a long time till you get redress for a broken word. To save time and money always ensure you understand completely everything you are signing. If you need help hire a translator or property consultant. It's worth it!