Answers before you bid.
The essentials for buying at a French property auction. Official documents are in French and prevail.
How does BIDY work?
BIDY brings French property auctions together. Browsing is free. Radar (€9.99/month, 7-day free trial) alerts you to new matching auctions, follows your favourites and reminds you of key dates. Unlimited (€19.99/month) adds every simple analysis and lawyer introductions. For one auction: simple analysis €5.99, strategic study €99, BIDY Conciergerie €490 (Paris / Île-de-France). BIDY never bids on your behalf.
Can I buy if I live abroad?
Yes. Non-residents can buy at French auctions. In a court sale you need a lawyer registered with the court’s bar, who bids for you. BIDY Conciergerie can coordinate the project for auctions in Paris and Île-de-France.
Do I need a lawyer?
For a court sale (vente judiciaire), yes: only a lawyer registered with that court’s bar can place bids. Notarial and online sales follow the organiser’s rules. Lawyer’s fees are agreed directly with the lawyer.
What is the deposit (consignation)?
A guarantee handed over before the sale, usually 10% of the starting price with a minimum of €3,000, by banker’s cheque or bank guarantee. It is returned if you do not win.
What costs come on top of the price?
Procedure costs (frais préalables), registration duties, the lawyer’s fees and emoluments, and other formalities — often around 8% to 12% of the hammer price overall, to be confirmed for each sale.
Can I use a mortgage?
Yes, but there is no loan condition: your financing must be secured before bidding, with a margin for costs and payment deadlines.
What happens after the award?
For 10 days anyone can make a higher bid (surenchère) of at least 10%, which triggers a new hearing. You then pay the price and costs within the deadlines of the conditions of sale.