We moved to try a different way of life, however we had certain advantages - already had a house in 17, I had a job lined up plus an additional income and we had kept property in the UK in case things didn't work out. Thanks to Brexit and the loss of FOM we couldn't do that now and although we're now back in the UK we feel very lucky to have spent 18 mostly happy years in France, the kids have certainly benefited from the experience and none have expressed any wish to leave the country.