Buying an abandoned house can be an excellent opportunity to purchase real estate at a low price. However, it requires a thorough understanding of the administrative procedures, potential costs, and precautions to take. Here's how to proceed.
1. Where can I find an abandoned house for sale?
Abandoned houses are not always easy to identify, but there are several ways to spot them and buy them at a good price.
Real estate listing websites
Some items in poor condition are sold at low prices on general online marketplaces:
- Leboncoin, SeLoger, Bien'ici, Logic-Immo
- Agencies specializing in atypical real estate (Barnes, Patrice Besse)
Public auctions and judicial sales
When a house is abandoned and seized for debt, it can be put up for sale through:
- Notarial auctions (French Notaries website)
- Auctions by local authorities and the State (Agorastore)
- The regional courts (judicial sales)
Vacant estates and properties without heirs
If a house is abandoned with no known heirs, it reverts to the state after 30 years. You can contact the State Property Office (DIE) to purchase it at a reduced price.
The land registry and the town hall
Some abandoned houses are listed at the town hall or with the land registry. You can:
- Requesting information about a property that has been identified.
- Contact the possible owners or heirs.
- Make an offer to purchase if the property is put up for sale.
2. What are the steps involved in buying an abandoned house?
1. Check the legal status of the house
- Consult the land registry to find out the official owner.
- Check if there are any outstanding debts, mortgages or legal proceedings .
- Ask the town hall if the property is in danger (which may imply renovation obligations).
2. Contact the owner or heirs
If the property still belongs to an owner or heirs, you can contact them and make a direct purchase offer .
3. Purchase via auction or state sale
- If the owner is unknown or if the state has reclaimed the property, it can be put up for public sale .
- You will then need to participate in the auction or make a formal request for acquisition.
3. What budget should be allocated for the purchase and renovation?
Even if an abandoned house is sold at a low price , additional costs must be anticipated:
Average price of an abandoned house for sale
- House in ruins or very dilapidated : €10,000 to €50,000
- House requiring major renovations : €50,000 to €150,000
- Habitable house with minor renovations : €150,000 and up
Cost of the work
- Minor renovation (painting, electricity): €200 to €500/m²
- Complete renovation (roof, insulation, plumbing): €1,000 to €2,500/m²
💡 Example calculation : An abandoned 100 m² house sold for €30,000 , with €1,500/m² of renovation , will cost €180,000 in work , for a total of €210,000 .
Additional costs to expect
- Notary fees (approximately 7-8% of the purchase price )
- Property taxes
- Home insurance required
- Architect's fees and compliance costs if the property is in danger
FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions
1. Is it possible to negotiate the price of an abandoned house?
Yes, especially if the property is in very poor condition. You can offer a lower price, particularly if no other buyers come forward .
2. Are there any financial aids available for renovations?
Yes, in particular:
- ANAH subsidies (up to 50% of the work)
- Zero-interest eco-loan
- Tax credits for energy-efficient renovations
3. Can an abandoned house be squatted in?
Yes, if it remains unoccupied for too long. It is advisable to secure the property quickly after purchase.
Conclusion
Buying an abandoned house for sale can be a profitable and unique opportunity, but you need to be careful and well-informed . By exploring auctions, vacant estates, and local opportunities , you can acquire a house at a reduced price and renovate it to make a sound investment .
