Updated : 26/07/2026
Viager checklist for foreign buyers
Ten questions to ask before buying viager in France from abroad — listing, notary, type, charges and returns.
In short
- Confirm the viager type (occupied, free, bare ownership) before comparing listings.
- Verify bouquet, monthly rente, indexation clause and who pays which charges.
- Model longevity scenarios — they change returns more than a 0.5% rente difference.
Use this checklist when reviewing a French viager listing from outside France.
1. What type of viager is it?
Occupied, free, usufruct reserve, or bare ownership? The label changes everything.
2. Bouquet and monthly rente
Are the figures firm in the listing or negotiable? Is rente monthly (standard in France)?
3. Rente indexation
Is the annuity indexed (e.g. to inflation)? Over 15–20 years, indexation can matter more than a small rente discount today.
4. Seller's age and health context
You are not buying a fixed-term bond — you are exposed to life expectancy. Use scenarios, not a single guess.
5. Property value and expected resale
What is the full ownership value today? What growth rate is reasonable for the area?
6. Charges and taxes
Who pays property tax, waste collection, routine charges? Who pays major structural works?
7. Occupation status
Can you visit? For occupied viager, inspect what you can — condition affects future resale and works.
8. Notary and contract path
Is a notaire already involved? French viager requires an acte authentique.
9. Your tax position
Cross-border income, wealth tax exposure (if applicable), capital gains on exit — get advice before signing.
10. Does the deal beat your hurdle rate?
Convert the listing into IRR and NPV at your required return. If you cannot model it, do not offer yet.
Next step: paste the listing figures into Le Bon Viager analyzer — score, IRR, NPV and longevity tabs in one flow.
Informational content only — not legal, tax or investment advice.
Informational content only — not legal, tax or investment advice.