05/18/2026
When nearly every weekend in May folds into a holiday — and the French even have a term for stretching them longer, ‘faire le pont’ — it’s no wonder my Parisian colleagues were somewhere in the Côte d’Azure during my short visit.
In addition to catching my friends and gracious hosts on holiday too, I learned that they were in that familiar expat limbo: renting, seriously considering buying, but pausing at the notaire fees. Which is so understandable— Paris buyers typically pay 7–8% in closing costs on existing properties versus Toronto’s 2–5% and when life remains beautifully open-ended, that upfront cost becomes a more layered conversation. But most of that number isn’t the notaire’s fee — it’s transfer taxes and state registration fees. The notaire is a state-appointed officer guaranteeing clean title, no hidden liens, full legal protection. Less than 10% is their actual cut. It’s less a closing cost and more the price of entry into one of the most buyer-protective property systems in the world.
On that note and importantly: since January 2025, France has banned rental of its lowest energy-rated homes, with stricter thresholds ahead. And these ratings aren’t just about efficiency because they also reveal what’s happening inside the building: ventilation, moisture, mold risk, air quality. As a building biologist, a home’s health and its performance are never separate conversations. This becomes a consideration for both you own growing a family and for a property you may rent out.
Paris has a rental vacancy rate of just 1–2% and well-priced apartments rent within 10–15 days. A thoughtful purchase here becomes a pied-à-terre by design. A foothold that works for you whether you’re in it or not. Some truly Parisian logic. 🥐
If Paris, property, or healthier homes are on your mind, I’m a message away and love to answer your questions.
P.S. Any other realtors relate to the nosey feeling of ending up window shopping beside potential clients (scroll to end)
