Prestige Property Group

French Manoir For Sale

Full Personal Service

Over 20 years experience in the area.

We give Expert Buyers Advice, from Enquiry to Purchase

Entire Market

We offer access to 99.9% of the local property market including off-market options

Free Service

Free advice and property finding service for buyers

Included Extras

Organisation of visits, legal advice, currency guidance, continued support after purchase, and more

Area Guide Contact Us

Soak up the morning sunshine rays whilst enjoying an al fresco breakfast on the terrace of your newly renovated French manoir or manor house nestling deep in the rolling hills of the Dordogne countryside; take a leisurely stroll through the ancient olive groves and trees bursting with ripe oranges and lemons surrounding your 16th Century stone manoir and enjoy the fabulous views of distant hazy mountains and a hint of sparkling blue sea; enjoy a relaxing afternoon messing around in boats on your own private lake before returning to your stylish French manoir for a chilled glass of champagne whilst watching the sun set through the dark green pine trees of the surrounding forest. Mostly located in beautiful locations, there is a wide range of French manoirs for sale throughout France providing investors with a very real opportunity of owning a property that has instant caché whether it is a stylishly renovated 18th Century stone manoir sitting in acres of woodland, a more rustic 16th Century manoir complete with traditional wooden beams and stone floors or a charming modern manor house surrounded by landscaped gardens and rolling green lawns.

A French manoir or manor house was a strongly fortified manor-house, which may include two sets of enclosing walls, drawbridges, and a ground-floor hall or salle basse that was used to receive peasants and commoners. The salle basse was also the location of the manor court, with the steward or lord of the manor’s seating location often marked by the presence of a crédence de justice or wall-cupboard (shelves built into the stone walls to hold documents and books associated with administration of the demesne or droit de justice). The salle haute or upper-hall, reserved for the lord of the manor and where he received his high-ranking guests, was often accessible by an external spiral staircase. It was common to "open" up to the roof trusses, as in similar English homes. This larger and more finely decorated hall was usually located above the ground-floor hall. The lord of the manor and his family's private chambers were often located off of the upper first-floor hall, and invariably had their own fireplace (with finely decorated chimney-piece) and frequently a latrine. In addition to having both lower and upper halls, many French manoirs also had partly fortified gateways, watchtowers, and enclosing walls that were fitted with arrow or gun loops for added protection. These defensive arrangements allowed these French manoirs to be safe from any local uprisings or armed rebellions which often happened during the troubled times of the Hundred Years War and the wars of the Holy League; however it would have been difficult for them to resist a siege undertaken by a regular army equipped with siege engines.

The traditional French manoir is nowadays a very sought-after type of property both as a second home and for holiday rentals and across France there is a healthy supply of French manoirs for sale. The larger properties – those with five bedrooms or more - offer excellent opportunities for holiday rental income with some having been converted into individual apartments or operating as a ‘bed and breakfast’.

There is a wide variety of styles and locations throughout the whole of France and prices range from around 350,000 EUR to over 2m EUR for the very top end of the market. Tucked away between the Pyrenees and the Loire Valley is the beautiful region of the Dordogne. Named after the river that runs through it, the region is home to truffles, foie gras, peppery Bergerac red wine and fabulous hiking and biking scenery. There are French manoirs for sale in the heart of this region overlooking tranquil valleys and secluded woodland. All renovated to a very high standard but retaining original features - some with additional guest accommodation and swimming pools - they offer superb accommodation for families and/or holiday rentals. Moving more south west to Gascony, the region of sunflowers and gently rolling hills, medieval bastide towns and classic French farmhouses, vineyards and typical French country restaurants, all set against the dramatic backdrop of the Pyrénées mountains. The elegant manoirs of Gascony are grand residences usually dating from the 18th and 19th century but designed on a more intimate scale than the Chateaux, often for landowners who lived from agricultural rents. Most are very symmetrical with grand entrances and hallways, sweeping wooden staircases, high ceilings and tall windows with either exterior or interior shutters. Distinctly different – Brittany’s northern border of beautiful jagged coastline and golden sandy beaches gives way to a mysterious, spell-binding land of myths and legends brimming with meandering canals and rivers, romantic chateaux and charming, picturesque towns. Here the manoirs are varied in style; choose a 15th Century renovated stone manoir set in acres of parkland resplendent with its great hall adorned with granite fireplaces, wooden floors and spiral staircases or an elegant 18th Century manoir with its beautiful original entrance hall with wood panelling, original decorative tiled floor and ceiling rose and polished parquet flooring, wood panelling and decorative tiled floors throughout.

French manoirs are special; evoking the traditions and romance of a bygone era yet providing all the convenience and luxury of modern day living, they are becoming increasingly popular as an investment both as a residence and also as holiday rental accommodation. There are French manoirs for sale throughout the whole of France and for the wise investor, these properties can provide an excellent investment opportunity.

1. Signing the Agreement (Compris)

On finding a property you wish to purchase you will need to negotiate the terms, price and conditions of the sale with the owner.

The next step, once you are in agreement, is to sign the preliminary contract (Compromis de Vente). This is a legal document and after ten days will be binding on both parties. Rules change frequently in France and it is best to consult with your notary about when this period starts. Generally the compris will be signed in France with the Agent.

Variants can be included in the compris, for example an Acte (clause) can be added if the name or names to go on the title deed have not been finalised. If a mortgage will be required to purchase the property, the details for this, including the name of the mortgage company, must be on the compris.

2. Paying the Deposit

Generally the deposit will be 10% of the agreed purchase price. This will normally be paid to the notaire. There are exceptions to this, if the agent holds a carte professionelle, is bonded and fully registered then you may pay them, but do not hand over the deposit to anyone else. If for some reason the purchase does not go through, for example, if you write to the notaire and the agent that you do not wish to go continue with the purchase before the contract is binding (within seven days of signing the compris), then your deposit would be repaid. This would also apply if a condition had not been met, or the mayor or S.A.F.E.R. (a government agency that has the right of first purchase on most rural property that comes onto the market in France) could oblige the purchaser to give way. If you decide after the seven days 'cooling off' period that you do not wish to complete the purchase and pull out of the sale you would lose your deposit. If however the vendor pulls out of the sale then you will receive your deposit back plus the same amount from the vendor.

3. On Completion

Generally it will take around two or three months to complete the purchase.

During this time the balance of the purchase money must be paid into the account of the notaire, this must be done well ahead of the completion date. The notaire will prepare the documents, check that the deed of sale (Acte de Vente) is in order and have the legal title ready to be signed over. It is possible to have someone sign on your behalf if you give them power of attorney. An interpreter may be of use at this point if your French is not very good and many Notaires will suggest (or insist) that an interpreter is with you.

IMPORTANT - Disclaimer :
All information provided is believed to be current and provided free of charge. No liability can be accepted for the reliability of the information and statements made as this is obtained from 3rd parties. We always recommend you take legal advice from a fully qualified Lawyer or Notary before buying a property overseas.

144 properties

Search Options

Property type

Max

Charming 4 bedroom stone built home located in Naujan et Postiac, which is a highly sought after village close to Branne. This historical gem, with its first part built in the 1700s and the second......

750,000 EURREF: 249993

In immaculate condition throughout, this beautifully restored 11 bedroom 13th Century priory, is set right in the heart of a sleepy rural village in the Deux Sevres. Ideally situated in a triangl......

741,470 EURREF: 247637

Character 10 bedroom Manor House for sale with countryside view in Villefranche du Perigord, Aquitaine

This fabulous country estate offers many possibilities including revenue potential. It sits in a beautiful part of the Perigord, surrounded by lush green countryside, 40 minutes from Sarlat and an ......

739,500 EURREF: 242605

Beautifully presented 5 bedroom early 20th Century manor house, which is presented in a Napoleon III style, set within 1.7 hectares of wooded parkland and with stunning uninterrupted views over the......

735,000 EURREF: 247950

Beautifully nestled amongst the hills, woods, steep valleys and pastures of the Segala region, this unique and traditional stone built farmstead, has been beautifully transformed into a spacious an......

730,000 EURREF: 249210

15 bedroom Castle for sale with countryside view with Income Potential in Penne d'Agenais, Aquitaine

Excellent character property offering flexible accommodation with a variety of uses for income generation, with almost 5 acres of land in a delightful rural setting. This superb property could g......

776,595 EURREF: 241751

4 bedroom Manor House for sale with countryside and panoramic views in Penne d'Agenais, Aquitaine

In an exceptional setting, nestled amongst 9 hectares of lush landscape, this superb property includes the main stone house built on 3 levels, which has been beautifully finished and is equipped wi......

742,000 EURREF: 242044

Spacious manoire set in 24 acres of land and offering outbuildings and development potential, just 15 minutes from Mont de Marsan. The property includes: Main house Ground Floor: 2 large recep......

695,000 EURREF: 251076

Situated in a quiet setting within a spacious plot of over 6,000m2, yet just a short drive to Bordeaux, this charming property was built in 1850 and classified as a "Maison de maitre". In excellen......

691,500 EURREF: 250354

Spacious 13 bedroom Manor House for sale with countryside view in Montaigu de Quercy, Midi-Pyrenees

Magnificent, grand and spacious 13 bedroom stone built manor house, with a vast total living area of 665m2, set within a large plot of 18,660m2, located in a quiet setting in Montaigu de Quercy. B......

689,000 EURREF: 235073

7 bedroom Chateau for sale with countryside view in Jonzac, Poitou-Charentes

Enchanting 6 bedroom French chateau with guest house, approached via stone pillars and iron gates along a tree lined drive, full of charm and character and within easy reach of the thriving spa to......

689,000 EURREF: 243254

Superb and totally restored 7 bedroom manor house, with its origins dating from 1930s, ideal as a large family home or as it is, being run as a chambre d'hotes business, but future owners may need ......

689,000 EURREF: 246905

Elegant 12th Century 10 Bedroom Chateau with guest house, annexe and numerous outbuildings to be renovated; a unique business opportunity. Just a short drive from the market town of Orthez, this m......

675,000 EURREF: 251466

Fabulous development opportunity with this 20 acre estate, with a main residence full of original character, though this 19th century property needs some work to bring it back to life and exploit i......

638,300 EURREF: 247801

Renovated 5 bedroom Manor House for sale in Nontron, Aquitaine

Highly desirable historic property with swimming pool and Medieval origins set in a tiny hamlet in the Dordogne Perigord National Park. The oldest part of the chateau, dating from the 13th centur......

636,000 EURREF: 243527

Superb and spacious maison-de-maitre dating back to the 19th century, with extensive living space of about 530m2 which has been beautifully converted into a spacious 3-bedroom apartment for the own......

599,000 EURREF: 251461

Character 10 bedroom Manor House for sale with countryside view in Ruffec, Poitou-Charentes

Full of character and charm, this substantial and uniquely positioned 10 mbedroom manor house, is ideally situated right in the heart of Ruffec, just a short walk from the market, shops, bars and r......

598,900 EURREF: 240145

Magnificent 6 bedroom house, which is ideally set a charming village within walking distance of numerous amenities. Tastefully and beautifully renovated by its current owner, this elegant residen......

595,000 EURREF: 249315

11 bedroom Manor House for sale with panoramic view with Income Potential in Vernet les Bains, Languedoc-Roussillon

Beautifully renovated 4 storey, 11 bedroom 'Maison de Maitre' set in beautiful landscaped gardens with pool, while enjoying panoramic countryside views from its ideal location near all amenities in......

630,000 EURREF: 245438

A most attractive character property dating back to the 17th Century with extensive and versatile accommodation and 2 acres of land. Main house: Approached through stately double gates, this fabu......

561,800 EURREF: 250417

Beautifully renovated stone Manor house with 2 gites, surrounded by 4 hectares of glorious land with gardens, tennis court, outbuildings and pool, while enjoying far reaching countryside views from......

560,000 EURREF: 251217

Character 8 bedroom Manor House for sale with countryside view in Olonzac, Languedoc-Roussillon

Perfect as a Chambre d'hote or as a large family home, this superb flexible property is ideally situated in a quiet setting in the centre of a village and close to the shops. Perfect for a home or......

560,000 EURREF: 230854

This lovely stone property is set back from the Charente and enjoys great views from inside and out. Gates from the road reveal the drive that leads to the house and integral garage. The front d......

545,000 EURREF: 251398

Historical 5 bedroom Manor House for sale with countryside view in Bauge en Anjou, Pays-de-la-Loire

Character stone property that has been tastefully and comprehensively restored, dating back to the Fifteenth Century, within easy reach of local amenities and about 30 minutes from Saumur and the L......

535,000 EURREF: 233010

Impressive character property dating back to before the Seventeenth Century in the heart of a lively village on the Causse de Limogne. The 5 bedroom manoire has been beautifully renovated to offe......

511,000 EURREF: 248439

A grand character stone country home, with a swimming pool and a detached barn, set in almost 4 acres of garden and parkland. The main house is comprised of an entrance hall leading to a formal r......

497,200 EURREF: 251690

Character 4 bedroom Manor House for sale in Saint Emilion, Aquitaine

Full of character and charm, this beautifully presented 4 bedroom period stone built property is set in a peaceful countryside setting, yet just 20km from the Saint Emilion vineyards. With 2.1 he......

487,600 EURREF: 244362

Income Producing 5 bedroom Manor House for sale in Carennac, Midi-Pyrenees

Wonderful opportunity to acquire an exquisite 5 bedroom Maison de Maitre with garden and pool, being run as a B & B and restaurant in an ideal location in the voted most beautiful village in France......

480,000 EURREF: 243120

Refurbished 7 bedroom Manor House for sale with countryside view in Cancon, Aquitaine

Full of character and charm and beautifully refurbished 7 bedroom manor house, situated in a quiet setting surrounded by 4,500m2 of mature parkland, in a lovely village with amenities and just a 10......

480,000 EURREF: 238661

Character French property with panoramic countryside views and development potential close to Engayrac in the Lot et Garonne department . This 17th-century building is sure to appeal to heritage......

477,000 EURREF: 247850

Dating from the mid 18th Century, this stunning 6 bedroom manor house is situated right in the heart of the vibrant and historic town of Charroux. Set on the top of a hill and with stunning views......

477,000 EURREF: 248114

Situated in a wonderful serene location opposite the river is this large manor house and equestrian estate. The elevated main manor needs renovations (subject to necessary permissions) but the se......

472,500 EURREF: 251399

Refurbished 9 bedroom Manor House for sale with countryside view in Tonneins, Aquitaine

Well presented 9 bedroom manor house, which is set at the end of its own private driveway, situated in a quiet setting in Tonneins, between Marmande to the west and Agen to the east. Totally rest......

466,400 EURREF: 240782

Income Producing 9 bedroom Manor House for sale with countryside view in Bersac sur Rivalier, Limousin

Beautifully situated 'maison de maitre' with two additional large and successful gites. Situated in the most picturesque village and offering a mainline station a short walk away, this house and ......

458,450 EURREF: 245373

Excellent development and income opportunity with this set of 3 individual houses, set in 2 acres of parkland with swimming pool in the Bergerac area of the Dordogne. The main stone property offe......

648,000 EURREF: 247087

Beautifully restored 4 bedroom, 14/16th Century Logis with unique architectural features, set in a glorious mature garden with outbuildings This historic home with its unique architectural feature......

429,000 EURREF: 251589

Beautiful 4 bedroom Manor House for sale with countryside view in Vancais. This historic home with its unique architectural features offers the opportunity to enjoy a slice of French history. It h......

429,000 EURREF: 251609

Authentic 4 bedroom Manor House for sale in Beauville, Aquitaine

Prestigious character property in the heart of a pretty village in the Lot et Garonne, with 4 bedrooms and set in half an acre of grounds. This stone house is approached via a lovely cast iron ga......

445,200 EURREF: 241752

A unique opportunity to acquire an authentic 14 bedroom Manor House with restaurant facilities,nestling in over 4 acres of land with barn and equestrian rooms, located in Bessines sur Gartempe. ......

402,800 EURREF: 251315

Stunning 5 bedroom Maison de Maitre, set in 2 acres of land on the outskirts of the popular and historic little town of Benevent L'Abbaye, noted in the register of 'Little cities of Character' and......

402,800 EURREF: 248861

Beautifully renovated 3 storey, 7 bedroom Manor House set in 1 3/4 acres of glorious land with gardens, pool, woods and outbuildings, while enjoying far reaching countryside views from its peaceful......

399,000 EURREF: 251319

9 bedroom Manor House for sale with Income Potential in Valence, Poitou-Charentes

Versatile and spacious 9 bedroom Maison de Maitre with income potential in a pretty riverside village with bar/restaurant, just 10 minutes from the town of Mansle in the Charente. This 350m2 pro......

396,900 EURREF: 244998

Situated between Marmande and Casteljaloux, in the heart of a peaceful, leafy setting, this superb and spacious manoire dates back to the late 18th century and is full of timeless charm and excep......

395,000 EURREF: 250955

Full of character and charm, this spacious 7 bedroom Charentaise syle house, which is currently divided in 2, each of which have their own water and electricity meter and entrances. Possibility t......

402,800 EURREF: 246398

Over 20 Years experience in
global luxury real estate
Large network of
professional multilingual offices
No fees
We are paid by our agents
to introduce buyers

<1 23

Access to Entire Market

Free Service

Full Personal Service

Property Finding

Free Expert Personal Service

Selling Your Property

A Form

French Manoir For Sale

Full Personal Service

Entire Market

Free Service

Included Extras

Contact Us

Business Hours

1. Signing the Agreement (Compris)

2. Paying the Deposit

3. On Completion

Search Options

Why Prestige

Over 20 years experience

Large network of offices

No fees

Prestige in the press

Stay up to date