The Good Life France Magazine Winter 2018 | Page 26

Do's

Location is key: France is a big country, about three times the size of the UK. There are many remote, rural areas and while for lots of us that’s part of the appeal, but when you're running a business like this, being close to an airport or port for transport options is seriously important.

Be realistic. Chateaux are old, it’s inevitable that they will need work, whether that’s full-blown renovation or just maintenance. And, they generally cost a lot of money to run (heating especially).

Plan ahead: It’s really important to consider how you’re going to earn an income. If your chateau is going to be run as a business, do some research and plan what you will offer guests, how it will work to suit you and your guests and, critically, how you’ll market it. This will also help you when you’re planning renovations.

Set deadlines and try as much as you can to work to a timeline. Keeping focussed will motivate you to keep going, you’re going to need that. Reaching milestones does wonders for your morale!

Join in: Don’t forget you have to live there, it’s not just about the bricks and mortar. Integrate with the locals and join in with community events as much as you can.

Be patient. The French love bureaucracy, there will be a ton of paperwork. It’s life. In France.

Dick and Angel's Top Tips for Chateau owners and seekers