I would never tell anyone not to use a solicitor if they want the extra reassurance but, in my experience, solicitors can hold up the process by trying to proove his worth. A notaire has to be neutral and is also the person appointed in France by law to deal with property law. They are therefore the most apt to advise you on property and inheritance law and, being on the ground, are probably the first to know of any new laws about to come in.