Buying in Dordogne: what overseas buyers should know
The Dordogne is one of the most established regions for British buyers in France, valued for its stone villages, river valleys and unhurried country life. It attracts those buying a second home for summers, a country residence with land, or a main home in retirement, and it suits buyers who want space, greenery and a strong sense of place. Property ranges from restored stone farmhouses and village homes to manor residences, barns for conversion and country homes with gardens or land.
What buyers are looking for in Dordogne
The region is known for its golden stone, so much of the sought-after stock is period farmhouses, cottages and manor homes, often with gardens, a pool or a few acres. Villages and market towns offer character homes within walking distance of shops and cafés, while the countryside holds larger residences and renovation projects. Demand is long-standing from British and other international buyers, and well-restored stone homes with land and privacy are consistently in demand.
Buying as an overseas buyer
UK buyers can own freely in France. After Brexit, visits are limited to 90 days in any 180-day period across the Schengen area without a visa, with a long-stay visa available for longer periods. A notaire oversees the purchase, there is a deposit and a short cooling-off period, and the fees paid through the notaire are higher on older resale homes than on new-build. Ongoing costs include the annual taxe fonciere, plus taxe d'habitation on second homes in some areas. French banks lend to non-residents, usually with a larger deposit. Your local partner agent can talk you through the detail. Start your search to see property for sale in Dordogne, or contact our team to be connected with a local partner agent.
Where to find property for sale in Dordogne
The region divides into distinct areas. The Périgord Noir around Sarlat is the best known, with stone villages and country homes near the river valleys. The Périgord Blanc around Perigueux offers a working town and gentle countryside, while the prehistoric valley towns such as Montignac combine village life with the culture of the Vézère valley. To the north, the quieter Périgord Vert around Verteillac is greener and more rural, and often better value for buyers seeking land and privacy.
Across all these areas you will find stone farmhouses, village homes, manor residences and renovation projects. Explore our collections to shortlist by the way you want to live.
