If you’re reading this, there’s a good chance you’re either dreaming about a life in France or you’ve already started browsing property listings and wondering, “Could we really do this?”
I’ve met many people at exactly that stage.
Over the years at La Grue Gites, I’ve welcomed guests who arrived for a holiday, others who came specifically to explore the area, and quite a few who quietly admitted halfway through their stay that they were thinking about buying a home here in the Charente. Some went on to buy, some decided it wasn’t quite right for them — and honestly, both outcomes are equally valuable.
House hunting in the Charente is not just about finding the right property. It’s about understanding the area, the rhythm of life, and whether this way of living truly suits you. This article is here to help you know what to expect before you start.
The First Thing to Understand: France Is Different
One of the most important things I gently explain to guests is that house hunting in France is very different from the UK.
The pace is slower.
The process is more methodical.
And patience really is essential.
That isn’t a bad thing — but it can come as a surprise if you’re expecting quick viewings, fast decisions, and immediate answers. In France, things take the time they take. Once you accept that, the whole experience becomes far more enjoyable.
Why the Charente Appeals to So Many Buyers
People are often drawn to the Charente because it feels real. It hasn’t been overdeveloped or overwhelmed by tourism, yet it offers everything you need for everyday life.
Many of our house-hunting guests love that:
- Towns like Aigre feel more like thriving villages than cities
- There are weekly markets, local shops, doctors, pharmacies, cafés, and schools
- Property prices remain sensible compared to many other regions
- Angoulême is close enough for larger shopping trips, hospitals, and transport
- The countryside is beautiful without feeling remote
It’s a region where people tend to live properly, not just holiday.
Why Staying Locally Before Buying Is So Important
I can’t stress this enough: staying locally before you buy is one of the best decisions you can make.
Online listings are helpful, but they don’t tell you:
- How a village feels on a winter morning
- How far amenities really are
- What the roads are like day to day
- Whether the area suits your lifestyle year-round
This is why many estate agents recommend their house-hunting clients stay with us. Our gîtes are comfortable outside the main season, properly heated, and set up for longer stays — ideal when you want to explore without pressure.
I’ve seen guests arrive convinced they wanted one village, only to discover another nearby suited them far better once they’d spent time here.
Timing Matters More Than You Might Think
Another thing to consider is when you come to house hunt.
Spring and winter are often ideal:
- There’s less competition for viewings
- You see properties as they really are
- You experience everyday life, not just summer France
- Long-stay accommodation is more flexible and affordable
Winter in the Charente is often much milder than people expect, and it gives a very honest picture of what living here is like.
Common Questions Guests Ask Me Early On
Before they even start viewings, many guests ask things like:
- How long does it usually take to buy?
- Do we need to rush to open a French bank account?
- Can we bring our dog if we stay longer?
- Should we ship our furniture over?
- Is the paperwork difficult if you don’t speak French?
These are all very normal questions — and they’re much easier to answer when you’re here, settled, and not trying to make big decisions from afar.
My Honest Advice Before You Begin
If I could give just one piece of advice, it would be this:
Don’t rush. Give yourself time to experience the area properly.
House hunting in the Charente should feel exciting, not stressful. Staying somewhere comfortable, having local support, and being able to ask questions as they arise makes an enormous difference.
Some guests decide the Charente is absolutely right for them. Others realise they want something slightly different — and that clarity is just as valuable.
Thinking About Taking the First Step?
If you’re considering house hunting in the Charente, I always recommend starting with a stay. Come and explore, ask questions, visit markets, talk to locals, and see how it feels living here rather than just visiting.
I’m always happy to chat, offer guidance, or point you in the right direction — whether you’re at the very beginning of the process or already part way through.
👉 If you’d like to talk things through or plan a stay, feel free to get in touch with me via La Grue Gites.
Sometimes, a simple conversation is the best place to start.