alnmike

Rather than knock on the door, I was waiting to see our neighbours in the garden and introduce ourselves. As it was, the previous owner had told them we were coming and they introduced themselves when we were in our garden! Perhaps you could ask the current owner could take you around. After a couple of months we invited them around for an aperitif, which seemed to go well. We provided Kir and nibbles. Enjoy!!

Rather than knock on the door, I was waiting to see our neighbours in the garden and introduce ourselves. As it was, the previous owner had told them we were coming and they introduced themselves when we were in our garden! Perhaps you could ask the current owner could take you around. After a couple of months we invited them around for an aperitif, which seemed to go well. We provided Kir and nibbles. Enjoy!!

many thanks - the attic is currently a bedroom, but with no natural light. We will apply!!

We want to put a couple of Velux windows in. Our builder says that if they don't overlook anyone, then we do not need permission. We already mentioned it at the Marie and have been given a form to complete. What are your thoughts? (Apologies if this has come up recently, tried the search feature but no joy)

Look at France Telecom site, www.francetelecom.fr For calls you may want to use another company as they are often cheaper. France Telecom has an English website, and helpdesk in Paris.

Sorry, forgot to say - we had re-marriages. We took all the papers with us, but our UK solicitor had already sorted things so they weren't needed.

We did this too, before we signed. Additional charge was no where near what you mention, but €100. We are in Manche, 50250

A week before completion our english solicitor advised the final bill. At the same time I used a currency broker to transfer the money to my CA account. I then faxed CA before 11 am and the money was with the notaire the next day, only one charge - by CA to receive the transfer. If you want names, please pm me.   good luck and enjoy!! PS have you sorted out how you will own the property?

To discourage visitors using your garden as their toilet, you can sprinkle lion dung (available from garden centres); worked for me in Manche!

Wannadoo also have pay as you go, not the cheapest but very easy to set up - either set up dial in details from their email to you if you can access at the moment, or wait for the cd in the post. Not being in France all the time, and using broadband in the UK, this suits fine.

Help! Mustn't complain about the the hot weather, but my stone cottage seems to have water dripping off the walls. The cottage is sometimes shut up for a little while, does this add to the problems? All suggestions greatfully received.

Another thought, how long has this been going on for? There are a couple of virus doing the rounds with similiar symptoms. Do you update your virus guard software automatically, or check every time you log on? Good Luck

the chain was on 15/5. I had this information sent to me, but haven't contacted them yet! Good luck The accountant is Charles Hamer Associates, 87 Park Street, Thame, Oxfordshire OX9 3HX. Telephone 01844 218956

Another good solicitor (for us) was Virginie Delplace of Kingsfords; she arranged for the notaire to have a translator, and for us to change our marriage regime to ensure inheritance issues covered. She charges a fixed fee and was well worth it, we think! Virginie Delplace [[email protected]]

What are peoples thought's on how much chasing to do of the holiday balance, 8 weeks prior to start date? I know email is not always reliable, so have sent a 'snail mail' reminder too. Should I phone? Thanks

One important bit of paperwork is to ensure your guests have their own insurance liability cover. If they have a reasonable travel insurance, they will be covered. This is because your property insurance whilst paying out, will seek to recover any damages from the user, if negligent. I have a clause on my booking form telling clients to get this.

I want to buy a new TV in France, and am happy to pay the licence. From the chain on Sky and licences I think that this will be automactically added to my taxe d'habitation? Is this correct? (Hubby is there at the moment on his own, and I worry about him explaining that the installation address is France, but payment address England . . . . . ) Thanks

Hi. We are looking for a keyholder/caretaker to keep an eye on our property in Manche. All suggestions gratefully received. Thanks Alison