Old farmhouse by a stream in Burgundy, 3,034 m²

About this house

This old farmhouse lies in a hamlet near Issy-l'Évêque in Saône-et-Loire, Burgundy, hidden in greenery along a small river, the Somme. The plot is 3,034 m², enclosed by a hedge that gives a lot of privacy, with plenty of trees for shade in summer and a large courtyard between the house and the barn with parking for several cars. Leggett describes the house as in good condition and immediately habitable, with a renewed roof.

The house has 146 m² of floor space and 7 rooms, including a 26 m² living room with a beamed ceiling, a bright 17 m² open kitchen, a 30 m² reception area, a 20 m² mezzanine, two 17 m² bedrooms, a bathroom and a shower room. A spiral staircase leads to the first floor. Across the courtyard stands a 130 m² barn with water, electricity and lots of natural light, which the agent suggests could suit a studio or showroom.

Practical points: heating is by wood stove and there is internet. The septic tank is not up to standard; the listing estimates about €12,000 for a new micro-station. A DPE energy rating is not required for this property. Property tax is listed from €285.

Buying in France: the asking price is €134,000 (reduced from €185,000) and the agency fees are paid by the vendor. Buyers should budget for notary fees and taxes, typically several percent of the price, and the sale goes through a notary with a preliminary contract and cooling-off period. Non-residents can buy freely; French banks do lend to foreign buyers, but conditions vary, so arrange financing early.

• Small river (the Somme) along the land
• Hedge-enclosed plot with lots of privacy
• Beamed living room and bright open kitchen
• 130 m² barn with water and electricity
• Renewed roof, immediately habitable
• Agency fees paid by vendor