Buying property in France isn’t just a financial decision. It’s a lifestyle choice.
Adrian Leeds has spent decades helping Americans make France their home. From Paris to Nice, Adrian explains why France feels so different from the US, not just culturally, but structurally, and why those differences matter when choosing where and how to live. If you’re considering relocating, retiring, or buying a home in France, this interview will help you think beyond the transaction and into the lifestyle.
In this episode, we cover France vs USA on:
– Cost of living (internet/phone, homeowner insurance, property taxes)
– Healthcare and day-to-day quality of life
– Buying property in France without the MLS system
– Why renovations often cost more than Americans expect
– Paris: a stable market? myths vs reality
– Nice: sunshine, lifestyle, and why it’s become a favorite
Chapters
00:00 – Why Move to France NOW?
02:03 – High Quality of Life for Half the Cost
04:45 – Finding French Property (No MLS in France)
06:37 – Property Market Stability & Low Carrying Costs
09:22 – Buyer Protections: Asking Price & 10-Day Cooling Off
11:29 – Renovations: Budgets, Mistakes, & Timelines
13:28 – Red Flags to Check When Renovating
15:39 – Nice vs Paris: Lifestyle, Prices, Vibes
18:00 – Are People From Nice Actually Nice?
20:07 – Quickfire Q&A and You’re Not Ready for Paris
23:12 – Contact Info: Property Hunter in France
Adrian’s website: https://AdrianLeeds.com/
#frenchrealestate #costofliving #livinginfrance

8 Comments
Bubbly character… Another great vlog Fabien 👏👏👏
First time understanding about painting.
Fabian, keep up these pod casts! It's always informational as it is entertaining! Adrian is an amazing source of information. I hope I can find a property with a garden in Nice. That's the dream in the next couple of years!
Sent few emails and messages about purchasing in France, never heard back,
The one big issue to me for Nice is the climate, it is just too hot for me.
Driving in Paris was quite interesting back in the 80s. It has improved significantly since then. Back then, lines on the road and signs were at most suggestions.
Love her when she is selling property in France…Fab
I always enjoyed her! Definitely would reach out to her if I'm relocating to France…