Buying a property in France can be an exciting and fun adventure. There are many steps involved from finding a property through to moving in and adjusting to a new life in France.

As with any project that involves many steps, it’s quite possible to overlook the big picture and get caught up in the detail. To reduce the risk of going astray, consider drawing up a list of end results that you’re interesting in achieving by buying a property in France. This list will not only help you to keep your eyes on the goal, but it will assist you when making important decisions.

Ultimately, the motivation for buying in France is to improve the quality of yours and your family’s life – but what does an improved quality of life truly mean? Are you buying in France to meet new people, understand a different culture and enjoy the fresh air and wide expanses? Do you want to have less expense, tastier food and a beautiful garden to tend to? Are you searching for more peace, to feel healthier or to enjoy a different social circle?

Outlining the reasons for buying in France will bring focus to the journey and allow you to make decisions that will bring you closer to the desired situation. When faced with the decision of buying a beautiful remote property versus a traditional home on the edge of a town you can consult your list. If you’re eager to meet new friends, practice the language, and enjoy the shops, restaurants and markets you’ll perhaps determine that a village setting is best.

Without having a solid handle on what you truly want, you may end up with the wrong property or in an area that doesn’t cater to your idea of an improved quality of life. Buying a property in France is just one stage in living the dream – take time to consider what will truly increase your quality of life and then set your sites on achieving it!

Kim Brown is co-author of the France Buying Guide – Get your FREE France Mini-Guide on buying a property here.