26th February 2017

The excitement began last Tuesday.  All seemed a bit vague. Our notaire didn't contact us but the buyer casually mentioned that we should be at the notaire's on the 21st. No paperwork. Just his casual mention.  Oh, OK then. I made some cinnamon and ginger biscuits in an attempt to sweeten everyone up. Tuesday arrived and, from past experience, had to assume that the venue would be the buyer's notaire in Lisle sur Tarn. Arrived early comme d'habitude and bit our nails.  Would the buyer arrive? Walked in and stared sightlessly out of the window. Voices were heard in the car park. Buyer had turned up!  All were ushered into an office, I placed my biscuits centre table, and the spiel began. Questions were asked. Did we know of any reason that neighbours might object??

 No, not to our knowledge, we said....I know, I know. Papers were passed to and fro, signatures were requested on innumerable pieces of paper. Everyone ate a biscuit.  So, is that it? I asked our notaire.  Oui! she said. Finally, the house is sold and all monies would be sent immediately to our French bank!!! Meantime, we've agreed with the buyer to remain as tenants whilst we await completion of our new-build English house.  Perfect.  A new stage in our lives. Here's a pic of work in progress. Support all around...just what I need myself!

20th March 2016

The week started well.  Two selling agents, and a surprise phone call saying we had a viewing on Friday at 15.45h.  France has a good system if you're just a seller.  The buyer pays both the hefty Notaire and agent's fees.  All we have to pay is the mandatory survey covering such things as termites, asbestos, energy efficiency etc. So we called in Socobois, a reputable local company.  The man came on Tuesday and agreed to my request to pay him three, separate cheques. My mandatory spending rule: always pay from income, not from savings.  As Friday approached, I read up on how to deal with viewings. Get rid of clutter and dog beds and at the appointed hour, send Him indoors out with both dogs. Never let a barking dog approach arriving car. Friday dawned. It poured. I couldn't open windows and patio doors onto a sunny terrace and I struggled with all the high-end cleaning. 15.00h, the floors still wet from mopping, Bruno out on the lead to prevent muddy paw marks and the agent's car arrives - 45 mins early!!  Bruno barks right on cue.  Disaster.  Will viewers make an offer? I doubt it. And Him indoors says At least he's not an accountant - he wasn't wearing a turban....Mr. Balan Singh......