Traditionally one major difference between commercial property transactions in France and Britain is that many more sales take place by the purchase of the shares of the holding company rather than the asset; however with the recent change in legislation the taxation is similar in both types of transactions, whether for the sale of leasehold or a freehold property.

Leases are also common in France whether through long leases similar to the UK system 60 to 90 years - those can be granted by individuals wishing to retain the leasehold interest or local administrations who are not in a position to sell the land. Indexation can be yearly based on consumption indices. Similarly leases are signed for a 9 year period, where the landlord is bound for a full period and then obliged to renew the lease (as the tenant acquires commercial rights) but where tenants usually benefit from a break period every 3 years.

However, France is a vast country with many different lifestyles and those who are prepared to understand the local culture will be regarded for their efforts.