Buying a farm in France: AVS-Europe has its own real estate agency in France, AVS-France . This agency offers a consistently attractive selection of dairy and beef farms. There is also ample supply of sheep and goat farms in France. The selection of arable farms is limited.
AVS-France employees are familiar with the complex laws and regulations in France. They closely monitor developments in the French land market.
AVS-France can help you find and purchase the right property. Keep in mind that preparing an offer and the purchase contract requires knowledge and experience. Knowledge of the French system is also essential for signing the deed of sale, arranging leases and premium rights, and for starting up after the farm has been acquired.
Business advice
Just like in the Netherlands, in France, when purchasing an agricultural business, financing must be arranged. French banks will finance a portion of the acquisition price if necessary. The remaining portion must come from your own contribution or private financing. AVS-France is familiar with the process and can work with you to assess your options.
When purchasing a farm in France, developing a sound business plan and obtaining the necessary permits are crucial for securing suitable bank financing. AVS-France can advise you and arrange this for you.
AVS-France has expertise in French tax law and, in consultation with a French accountant, also advises on choosing the right business structure. This can prevent or limit future tax claims.
AVS-France also offers support in starting your new business. Long-term support for your French business can also be provided upon consultation.
Emigration guidance
Entrepreneurs wishing to establish themselves in France are supported from the very beginning by an emigration advisor. The advisor assesses your needs and provides information about your options in France. They will review suitable offers in France, arrange contact with AVS-France, and arrange any viewings.
Emigration expert Leo Dorresteijn is familiar with both Dutch and French agriculture. He is the point of contact for anyone with questions about opportunities in France. AVS-France staff in France will then provide guidance on establishing and starting your business.
You can reach Mr. Leo Dorresteijn on telephone number 00 31 622 54 44 84 .
Or by e-mail: dorresteijn@avs-europe.nl
Status ‘Young Farmer’
In addition to space, climate and social position, the low land price in particular makes France an attractive country for farmers who no longer see an opportunity to farm in the Netherlands.
If you take the step to settle in France, you’ll have a significant advantage if you can obtain “Young Farmer” status. This gives you preferential treatment in land allocations by the land bank and a start-up bonus of up to €30,000. Extras are also available for “Young Farmer” farmers in the allocation of milk delivery rights and premium rights. The French government is making starting out as a young farmer attractive in this way. Both French and non-French young farmers can obtain this status.
Of course, there are requirements for obtaining this status. For example, you must be under forty years old and have completed agricultural training. Besides diplomas, your agricultural work experience is also taken into account. Sometimes an additional internship or refresher course is required to obtain the status. Another requirement is that you must not have previously owned a business in France or another EU country. Of course, you can also opt out of the “Young Farmer” status. It is merely a benefit, not a requirement, for purchasing an agricultural business in France. An emigration expert can assess your eligibility for this status and can also advise you on improving your position.
Have diplomas assessed
In order to use your diplomas in France, they must be ‘internationally recognised’.
The EU has made it possible to compare the value of diplomas. Institutions have been designated for each country to evaluate diplomas. For the Netherlands, Nuffic and Colo have been designated (see also www.nuffic.nl and www.colo.nl). The institutions have chosen English as the working language. A certified translator must then translate the English into French.
The evaluation of diplomas is a personal matter. You can only request it yourself. It is the responsibility of the person wishing to settle in France.
Of course, the emigration expert can help with obtaining information, forms and the correct translation.
