Blog
Insights on European property investment, restoration, and local wisdom.
Mar 4, 2026
How we calculate the Real Costs of Owning a home in France.
In this article I explain how I calculate those costs on Olivings, and which public data sources I use to make those estimates as realistic as possible.
5 min read
Feb 15, 2026
Common Mistakes When Buying Property in Provence
Buying a home in Provence is rarely complicated, but it’s easy to underestimate the practical realities. This guide covers the most common mistakes buyers make.
8 min read
Feb 15, 2026
Choosing the Right Type of Property in the Provence
Choosing the right type of property in Provence is often more important than choosing the location. In this guide we help you choose the right type of home.
5 min read
Feb 15, 2026
Buying Property in Provence: The Complete Guide for Foreign Buyers
L:ooking to buy a home in the French Provence? This practical guide explains how the process in the Provence (France) works, including legal and financials.
6 min read
Feb 15, 2026
The French Property Buying Process Explained
Buying property in Provence is basically buying two things at once: a home, and a French administrative process. This guide walks through the full sequence
8 min read
Feb 15, 2026
Why French houses almost never have closets
Many French homes have little or no built in storage. Discover why closets are rare, how this reflects building traditions, and what buyers should expect.
3 min read
Feb 15, 2026
Hidden Costs of Owning a Home in Provence
Owning a home in Provence often costs far more than you'd expect. This guide breaks down the real yearly costs of living in the Provence, France.
5 min read
Feb 13, 2026
Septic systems in France and what buyers often discover too late
Many rural French homes rely on septic systems rather than mains sewage. Learn how they work, what upgrades can cost, and what buyers often overlook.
3 min read
Feb 13, 2026
Understanding heating systems in French homes and what they really cost
Heating systems in French homes vary widely. Learn how oil, electric, wood and gas heating work in practice and what they can actually cost to run.
3 min read
Feb 13, 2026
Why houses in the Dordogne look so cheap and what that really means
Houses in the Dordogne often look surprisingly affordable. Here is what really explains the lower prices, from rural isolation to maintenance realities.
4 min read
Feb 13, 2026
Biggest mistakes when buying property in France
Buying a home in France comes with hidden realities. From heating costs to taxes and infrastructure, here are the surprises many foreign buyers don’t expect.
3 min read