Categories: Moving to France, Provence
In this episode of the Join Us in France Travel Podcast, I chat with Juliana Linssen and her husband Craig about their plan to move from California to France. They are in the middle of the process of buying a home in France, and they share what it’s really like on the ground.
Why France and Why the South
Juliana and Craig explain why France feels like the right fit for them. They are drawn to the lifestyle, the food, and the beauty of everyday life. They want outdoor activities, sunshine, and a slower pace.
They first looked closer to Nice, but quickly realized they preferred the quieter inland areas. We talk about places like Seillans, Fayence, and Montauroux. These perched villages in the arrière-pays offer incredible views and a peaceful atmosphere.
Even if you have no plans for buying a home in France, this part of the episode is a treat. We are talking about some of the most beautiful villages in Provence. It’s easy to see why people fall in love with this area.
What It’s Like Buying a Home in France
Juliana and Craig quickly discovered that buying a home in France is not always straightforward. Inventory can be limited. The same properties appear with multiple agents. And homes don’t always match what buyers expect.
They saw houses with unusual layouts. Small kitchens. Rooms arranged in ways that take getting used to. It’s part of the charm, but also something to be aware of.
At one point, they had an accepted offer. But after further inspection, they uncovered structural issues and had to walk away. It was disappointing, but it also shows why patience and careful checks matter when buying a home in France.
Financing, Timing, and Language
We also talk about financing and timelines. Buying a home in France takes time. There is paperwork. There are delays. You need to plan for that.
Language is another factor. Both Juliana and Craig are learning French. You don’t need to be fluent, but having some French makes everything easier, especially when dealing with agents and notaires.
Life in the Arrière-Pays
Living inland is very different from living on the coast. It’s quieter. You will likely need a car. Shops and services are more spread out.
But in return, you get space, beauty, and a strong sense of community. These villages have markets, local traditions, and a slower rhythm that many people are looking for when they think about buying a home in France.
Why This Episode Matters
I love this conversation because it’s honest. Buying a home in France sounds like a dream, and it can be. But there are also challenges, and it helps to hear from people who are going through it right now.
Juliana and Craig share both the excitement and the reality. That makes this episode especially useful if you are considering making a similar move.
Listen and Subscribe
If you’re dreaming about buying a home in France, this episode will give you a clearer picture of what to expect. And if you just enjoy discovering beautiful parts of France, you’ll love the places we talk about.
Listen to the full episode for all the details. And don’t forget to subscribe to the Join Us in France Travel Podcast on your favorite podcast app. You can also follow along on Spotify or YouTube using the links below.
Table of Contents for this Episode
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Discussed in this Episode
- Nice
- Seillans
- Fayence
- Montauroux
- Cabris
- Saint-Cézaire-sur-Siagne
- Spéracèdes
- Var
- Luberon
- Provence
- Arrière-pays
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TranscriptCategories: Moving to France, Provence