If you were looking in Charente, maybe we could help, we built new in Uk, and have now setup to do it for Brits in Charente. In general terms, there is much better protection for the purchaser in France, as all new house contracts have to meet the law passed in 1990. Guarentees are worth the paper they are written on. Being registered Artisans and Developers, we help clients design their dream home, then control the build, so they return to a finished home. Keep in touch by email, and we will let you know, when our website is launched, may give you a few pointers.Good Luck Best Regards John M