FRENCH KEYS : Real estate and investing in France

Alex Gaines &Thierry Jean
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Hosted by Alex Gaines, real estate agent and partner at PRESTANT Realty, and Thierry Jean, international mortgage broker, the show offers a unique perspective on the opportunities and challenges of investing in France. Together, they bridge the gap between markets and mindsets — guiding international buyers, expats, and investors through the process of purchasing, financing, and managing property in France. From luxury listings on the Riviera to financing strategies in Paris, French Keys provides expert insights, practical advice, and real stories from the field — giving you the keys to unlock your French real estate ambitions. Credits Sound and Production: La Fabrika Connect with the Hosts Thierry Jean: https://www.linkedin.com/in/internationalm... Alex Gaines: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexgaines77/ Real estate agency : www.prestant.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episodes

  1. 5D AGO

    FX Matters: Investing in France without Currency risk

    Currency risk is the hidden force behind every international real estate investment. Yet most investors underestimate how foreign exchange (FX) impacts their returns when investing in France. In this episode of French Keys, we sit down with a foreign exchange expert to break down how currency movements affect property investments, financing, and long-term wealth for international buyers. Whether you’re a U.S., UK, or international investor, understanding FX is essential to protect your capital and optimize your real estate investment in France. We cover: • How foreign exchange impacts French real estate returns • The biggest FX mistakes international investors can avoid • How to manage and hedge currency risk effectively • When and how to convert funds when buying property in France • FX strategies used by sophisticated global investors This episode is essential viewing for anyone investing in French real estate, structuring cross-border investments, or managing international wealth. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    25 min

  2. JAN 21

    Tax intelligence : When French law meets International

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    17 min

  3. 11/07/2025

    From U.S. Banks to French Notaires: The Financing Journey

    Join Thierry Jean, International Mortgage Broker, and Alex Gaines, the Super Realtor, for their second episode where they dive deeper into all international mortgage aspects and provide concrete examples of how they assist their clients daily. This episode focuses on technical examples, concrete metrics, and figures to show international buyers how they can make their French property purchase happen. In this discussion, the hosts analyze one of their best recent deals: advising American clients purchasing a property valued around 3.5 million euros in the Southwest of France. They explore why purchasing cash is often "not the best idea" and how strategic financing can maximize profit. You will learn about the double leverage effect achieved through French financing conditions and collateral held in the client's home country. Discover the key financial benefits of borrowing in France, including leveraging assets, benefiting from interest rates that are often half of what is found in the US (e.g., around 3.5% in France vs. almost 7% in the US), and the ability to reduce real estate wealth tax exposure. The discussion details how clients can achieve 100% financing by transferring 40% collateral—which remains invested and managed under SEC regulation—allowing them to borrow against it at very low levels (around 1% historically for this specific deal). The hosts also contrast French and US mortgages, noting the stricter criteria in France regarding age and income for classical mortgages and highlighting the greater flexibility provided by private banks. T Jean explains that he works primarily with international clients for residential properties, with a "sweet spot" starting from a 1 million euro purchase. If you are interested in maximizing your international property investment through sophisticated financing structures that combine the security of French banking conditions with US market advantages, let us know! We can explore the specific alternative financing solutions available, such as the lumbar loan, which may be necessary for older clients. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    19 min
  4. The art of French real estate: philosophy, passion, and profit

    10/15/2025

    The art of French real estate: philosophy, passion, and profit

    In this inaugural episode of French Keys, hosts Thierry Jean and Alex Gaines take you on a deep dive into the business and cultural landscape of France, offering essential insights for anyone looking to navigate its intricacies. Key Topics Discussed: Doing Business in France: Thierry and Alex break down the unique aspects of the French corporate world, discussing everything from common business practices and etiquette to the nuances of legal and administrative frameworks.Cultural Differences and Integration: The hosts share their perspectives on the cultural keys to successfully integrating into French society, touching upon common misconceptions and offering practical advice on bridging the gap between international and French ways of life.Entrepreneurship and Innovation: The episode explores the vibrant startup scene and innovation ecosystem in France, highlighting the opportunities and challenges for entrepreneurs, especially those coming from abroad.Whether you're an investor, an entrepreneur, or simply someone fascinated by France, Thierry and Alex provide a candid and engaging discussion packed with practical "keys" to unlock your success. CreditsSound and Production: La Fabrika Connect with the HostsThierry Jean: https://www.linkedin.com/in/internationalmortgagebroker/ Alex Gaines: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexgaines77/ Real estate agency : www.prestant.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    20 min
  • 4 Episodes

About

Hosted by Alex Gaines, real estate agent and partner at PRESTANT Realty, and Thierry Jean, international mortgage broker, the show offers a unique perspective on the opportunities and challenges of investing in France. Together, they bridge the gap between markets and mindsets — guiding international buyers, expats, and investors through the process of purchasing, financing, and managing property in France. From luxury listings on the Riviera to financing strategies in Paris, French Keys provides expert insights, practical advice, and real stories from the field — giving you the keys to unlock your French real estate ambitions. Credits Sound and Production: La Fabrika Connect with the Hosts Thierry Jean: https://www.linkedin.com/in/internationalm... Alex Gaines: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexgaines77/ Real estate agency : www.prestant.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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