The offer
Keep in mind that the French market is quite fast paced. Once you have found the property of your dreams, do not delay: you may not be the only client who is interested!
At that stage of the buying process, you should make an offer, usually in writing. If your offer is accepted by the vendor, you sign a 'Compromis de Vente' which is a written contract of sale agreement. It legally binds together the seller and the purchaser. Although they may vary slightly in their form, each “Compromis de Vente” should clarify: details of both purchaser and seller, details of the property and details of the purchase (price, fees related).
You may also require some clauses to be inserted into the “Compromis de Vente” which are called “clauses suspensives”. Theses clauses allow you to withdraw from the purchase if for example you are refused a request for outline planning permission or if you are turned down for a French mortgage.
Since the contract is signed by both parties, the property is taken off the market. By the law, the vendor is not allowed to accept a higher offer from another party.
You then have a 7-day cooling off period, in which you can withdraw from the buying process without giving any penalty.
