Reg55

Thanks everyone. I will try all these suggestions. Perhaps emails in English to a number of Notories might bring something suitable.

Thanks June. This sounds the best bet. Would I need to have any particular documentation prepared in advance, so that we could rent immediately once we found somewhere ? (sorry to be a pain and I guess some research by myself would tell me, but local up to date advice is invaluable)

Thanks Krusty

We are most interested in South West areas, but will consider anywhere.

I posted on two French forums for somewhere for a 6 month rental from around April next year and had no responses. Just been reading about the legislative framework and scare stories and can understand why. I am even prepared to pay for the 6 months in advance. One question: what can I do to find somewhere ? There has to be a way. Is it better to drive down in April and hunt around there and then, or should I keep looking so far in advance?

We are looking to explore France next year (prefer S/W areas) with a view to moving there in longer term. We have a lovely 4 bed villa with pool in North Cyprus if anyone is interested in a swap ? We have put it on the market, but are in two minds and as everywhere, the market here is slow. We do not need something as big, but we have 2 dogs that will need looking after. We would also prefer no pets in France as we may be away for several days at a time. Post edited by a moderator.  For more details of the property please PM the poster.

We are looking to explore France next year (prefer S/W areas) with a view to moving there in longer term. Anything considered, but would love something on or close to fishing river and even better if close to shops (village/town). 2 bedrooms. Can pay deposit well in advance to secure.