Richard Whiting's book 'Buying and Renovating a Property in France' is essential reading for anyone contemplating the purchase of a property in France be it for personal use or letting, especially if the property requires renovation.
The whole purchasing process is explained in plain language under various headings starting from the search for the ideal location. regional variations, the function of the estate agent and notary, preliminary and final contracts and credit facilities available in France.
On the renovating side the book deals with the various building regulations, architects surveyors and , windows and even swimming pools. A great plus is the glossary of commonly used words in each section as many of them do not appear in the usual dictionaries.