Buying Property in Lyon: 10 Essential Questions

Buying property in Lyon? Discover 10 essential things to check before making an offer, from choosing the right neighborhood to avoiding hidden costs.

Lyon is one of France's most attractive cities to call home. With its beautiful architecture, vibrant food scene, excellent public transportation and proximity to the Alps, it's easy to understand why so many internationals choose to settle here.

But buying an apartment in Lyon isn't just about finding a beautiful property in the perfect neighborhood.

Whether you're an expat planning to settle in France, an international buyer looking for a second home, or simply someone ready to become a homeowner, there are several important things to consider before signing on the dotted line.

At Sojoourn, we've been helping internationals settle into life in Lyon for years. We've seen how important it is to understand the local property market before making such a significant investment.

Here are 10 essential things to consider before buying an apartment in Lyon, including a few details that buyers often overlook.

1. Is Buying Property in Lyon the Right Decision for You?

Before falling in love with an apartment, ask yourself one important question: is buying the right decision for your current situation?

If you're planning to stay in Lyon for several years, purchasing a property could be an interesting long-term investment.

However, if you're unsure how long you'll remain in France, renting might offer more flexibility.

Consider your professional situation, future plans and potential relocation opportunities.

Sojoourn's tip: Don't rush into buying simply because you love Lyon. Take the time to explore the city, understand its neighborhoods and make sure you're ready for a long-term commitment.

2. How Do You Know If an Apartment Is Overpriced?

Two apartments in the same neighborhood can have very different prices.

In Lyon, property values can vary significantly depending on the street, floor, building condition, natural light, outdoor space and proximity to public transportation.

A beautifully renovated apartment isn't necessarily a good deal if its asking price is considerably higher than comparable properties.

Before making an offer, compare similar apartments and research recent transactions in the area.

You can consult the French government's DVF (Demandes de Valeurs Foncières) database, which provides information about recorded property transactions.

Sojoourn's tip: Don't rely exclusively on asking prices displayed on property websites. Actual transaction prices are often a more useful reference when assessing a property's value.

3. Does the Neighborhood Really Match Your Lifestyle?

Lyon has nine arrondissements, each offering a different living experience.

Perhaps you're dreaming of a charming apartment in Croix-Rousse, with its village atmosphere and independent cafés.

Or maybe you prefer the elegant streets of the 6th arrondissement, the lively atmosphere of the Presqu'île, or the residential feel of Monplaisir.

But choosing a neighborhood isn't only about aesthetics.

Ask yourself:

• Is the area convenient for your daily commute?

• Are supermarkets, cafés and essential services within walking distance?

• How noisy is the street in the evening?

• Is the neighborhood well-connected by public transportation?

• Will the location still suit your lifestyle in five years?

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Sojoourn's tip: Visit the neighborhood during the day, in the evening and on weekends. A quiet street on a weekday morning might have a completely different atmosphere on Friday night.

4. What Should You Check During an Apartment Viewing?

It's easy to get distracted by beautiful parquet flooring, high ceilings or a charming balcony.

However, some of the most important details aren't immediately visible.

During a viewing, pay attention to:

• Natural light and the apartment's orientation.

• Signs of humidity, water damage or mold.

• The condition of windows and insulation.

• Noise from neighboring apartments and the street.

• The heating system and ventilation.

• The condition of electrical installations.

• The layout and potential renovation requirements.

In Lyon, many apartments are located in older buildings, making these checks particularly important.

Sojoourn's tip: If possible, arrange a second viewing at a different time of day. Bring someone with technical expertise if you're considering a property that requires renovation.

5. What Are the Hidden Costs of Buying an Apartment in France?

The purchase price is only one part of your investment.

When buying property in France, you'll also need to budget for additional expenses, including:

• Notary and acquisition fees: Often approximately 7–8% of the purchase price for existing properties.

• Agency fees: Depending on how the property is marketed and the fee arrangement.

• Mortgage-related expenses: Such as guarantee and administration fees.

• Property tax (taxe foncière): An annual tax payable by property owners.

• Condominium charges (charges de copropriété): Contributions to the building's maintenance and shared expenses.

• Renovation and furnishing costs: Particularly in older apartments.

For example, if you're buying an existing apartment for €300,000, acquisition fees alone could represent approximately €21,000–€24,000, depending on the transaction.

Sojoourn's tip: Establish your total budget before starting your search, including a financial buffer for unexpected expenses.

6. Is the Building in Good Financial Condition?

When buying an apartment in France, you're often purchasing a property within a copropriété, or condominium.

This means that you share responsibility for maintaining the building with other owners.

Before committing to a purchase, ask to review:

• The last three years of condominium general meeting minutes.

• Annual building maintenance charges.

• Planned or approved renovation work.

• The building's maintenance history.

• Any outstanding payments or financial difficulties within the condominium.

• The building's long-term maintenance plan, where applicable.

Major renovation projects, such as façade restoration, roof repairs or elevator replacement, can represent significant additional expenses.

Sojoourn's tip: A beautiful apartment in a poorly maintained building can become a costly investment. Always investigate the building's overall condition, not just the apartment itself.

7. Will the Apartment Need Energy Renovations?

Energy efficiency has become an increasingly important consideration when purchasing property in France.

Every apartment offered for sale must generally have an Energy Performance Certificate, known as the DPE (Diagnostic de Performance Énergétique).

This certificate rates the property's energy performance from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient).

A low rating can mean higher energy bills and potentially expensive renovation work.

It can also affect your ability to rent out the property in the future, as France is progressively restricting the rental of poorly rated homes.

For example, since January 2025, properties rated G generally no longer meet the energy-performance requirements for residential rentals. Further restrictions are scheduled for F-rated properties in 2028 and E-rated properties in 2034.

Sojoourn's tip: If you're considering an older apartment, investigate insulation, heating and window quality before making an offer. Renovation costs should be included in your overall budget.

8. Could Upcoming Construction or Urban Development Affect Your Property?

You've found a beautiful apartment with an open view and plenty of natural light.

But what if a new building is planned directly opposite?

Before buying, investigate potential developments in the surrounding area.

Lyon is constantly evolving, with urban renewal projects, transportation improvements and new residential developments.

These changes can improve a neighborhood's attractiveness, but they can also affect noise levels, traffic and views.

Sojoourn's tip: Check the local urban planning regulations (Plan Local d'Urbanisme et de l'Habitat, or PLU-H) and ask about planned construction projects near the property.

9. Can You Buy an Apartment in Lyon While Living Abroad?

Yes! Foreign nationals can generally purchase property in France, even if they don't currently live in the country.

However, buying remotely requires careful preparation.

You'll need to consider how to organize property viewings, assess the condition of an apartment, arrange financing and coordinate the legal process.

Some steps can be handled remotely, including certain signatures through a properly authorized power of attorney.

If you're applying for a French mortgage, banks may have specific requirements for non-resident buyers.

Sojoourn's tip: Working with a trusted local professional can be particularly valuable when you're unable to visit properties yourself. Virtual viewings, local market expertise and on-the-ground coordination can make the process much smoother.

10. Should You Work with a Property Hunter in Lyon?

Finding the right apartment takes time, especially when you're unfamiliar with the French real estate market.

A property hunter, known in France as a chasseur immobilier, works on behalf of the buyer rather than marketing a portfolio of properties for sale.

Their role is to understand your needs, identify suitable opportunities and guide you through the search and purchase process.

Depending on the service, a property hunter can help you:

• Define your search criteria and budget.

• Access properties across the market, including potential off-market opportunities.

• Organize and conduct property viewings.

• Assess the condition and value of properties.

• Negotiate the purchase price.

• Coordinate with real estate agents, notaries and other professionals.

For international buyers, having someone on the ground who understands both the local market and your expectations can make a significant difference.

Sojoourn's tip: Choose a property hunter who takes the time to understand your lifestyle, long-term plans and priorities, rather than simply sending you property listings.

Looking to Buy an Apartment in Lyon? Let Sojoourn Help You Find Your Perfect Home.

Buying property in a new city should be an exciting experience, not an overwhelming one.

At Sojoourn, we've spent years helping internationals find their place in Lyon. We know the neighborhoods, understand the challenges of relocating and believe that finding a home should always be a personal experience.

That's why we've expanded our services to include Property Purchase Assistance, in partnership with an experienced local property hunter.

From defining your requirements to organizing viewings, assessing properties and coordinating the purchase process, we're here to make your property search easier.

Whether you're relocating to Lyon, purchasing a second home or planning your long-term future in France, we'll help you navigate the local market with confidence.

Because finding a property is one thing. Finding a place that truly feels like home is another.

Ready to start your property search?

Contact Sojoourn to discuss your plans.

Want to learn more about the buying process itself? Read our guide: How to Buy an Apartment in Lyon as an Expat.