Myself and my partner moved to Burgundy last year, buying a property through an agency in Autun (if you want their name either PM or Email me). The house had been empty for six months according to the agents, and was sold to us 'in good state' with central heating. On the date of signing, I asked the agent if I could check the house over, as I'd read that this was advisable. However, he told me no, as there wasn't time. On entering the notaire's office, I was told that the agents had misquoted my fees by 750E. I had the letter they'd sent me with the fees written down, but the agent, who was beside me, just shrugged and asked me if I had a cheque book! I was told that unless I could produce this there and then, I couldn't have my keys. Well, it isn't really the sort of cash you have stashed in your back pocket is it?! On arrival at our house, we soon discovered that all of the water pipes had been cut in order to bleed the radiator. Several days plumbling got it fixed, but it took my neighbour to come and tell me that the central heating boiler was 'finished'. This turned out to be very true. The house, which had actually been empty for two years, not six months, hadn't so much as got hot water, let alone heating. I took this up with the agent, but they informed me that I should have asked to see it working on the day of signing!!!! All I received was a quote for 1800 euros to send a plumber to get it into the state they advertised it in! Most recently, I have now received a bill from my neighbours, informing me that, as part of the 'commune' (my house is behind some others and I have to walk through a corridor to reach it) I am liable for a share of their building insurance - I don't even live in that building! My house is entirely detached! Funnily enough, none of this was mentioned by the agent when I bought it. So my advice is - beware! Ask to see everything working, visit the house on the day of signing, and ask questions about your liabilities. RDC3