Q&A
Frequently Asked Questions
Find clear answers to the most common questions about our services and approach.
Our law firm
What is the legal status of Poltorak Notaires?
We are a fully accredited notarial office (étude notariale), regulated under French law and authorised for all notarial acts.
Who will handle my case?
All matters are personally overseen by Maître Poltorak with support from a select team of 2 -3 trusted collaborators.
Do you work with international clients?
Yes — our firm is dedicated to English-speaking individuals, families, banks and advisors dealing with French legal matters.
Where are your offices located?
We operate in Toulouse (southwest of France) and in Paris, meetings are arranged flexibly to suit our international clientele.
What distinguishes Poltorak Notaires from others?
We combine the precision of French notarial law with international perspective, strategic thinking, and boutique-style client service.
Do you offer fixed fees or hourly billing?
For advisory services, we offer transparent quotes. Regulated notarial acts follow fixed national tariffs set by French law.
Can you work with my existing advisors?
Absolutely — we regularly coordinate with private bankers, lawyers and trustees to ensure aligned and secure outcomes.
Property Transaction
Can I buy property in France as a US citizen?
Yes. There are no restrictions. We assist non-residents with legal compliance, inheritance planning, financing and secure execution.
Do I need a notary to buy in France?
Yes. A French notaire is mandatory. We ensure coordination between notary, banks, and your foreign advisors, if needed, to protect your interests.
How can I structure French assets in my estate?
We advise on wills, trusts, and cross-border succession rules to ensure smooth transmission and legal security for your global heirs.
What taxes apply when I buy in France?
Expect 8% in purchase costs (incl. tax). We provide full guidance on notarial fees, registration duties, and tax implications.
Do I need tax advice for a luxury property?
Yes. High-value acquisitions require tailored tax and legal coordination. We work with advisors to optimize your holding and future exit.
Real Estate Financing
Can I get a mortgage as a non-resident?
Yes. We work with banks to structure secure financing for international buyers.
What guarantees do French banks require?
Typically, a mortgage on the property. We help structure guarantees compliant with both French law and your home country.
Is the loan process long in France?
It depends, but we help reduce delays by preparing clear, compliant documentation upfront.
Can my company or trust get financing?
Yes, with the right structure. We ensure legal feasibility.
How are interest and taxes handled?
We coordinate with your tax advisors to align loan terms with your fiscal strategy.
Estate planning
How should global families structure their estate plans?
We build tailored frameworks for high-net-worth families to manage succession across jurisdictions, balancing control, tax impact, and long-term legacy.
Can international heirs face legal challenges?
Yes. We pre-empt legal conflicts by coordinating jurisdictional rules and inheritance rights to preserve family harmony and asset continuity.
How do we reduce estate tax exposure?
We integrate strategic lifetime gifts, treaty benefits and corporate structures to optimize transmission for international families and entrepreneurs, in coordination with foreign lawyers.
Should we use a private trust or family holding?
For significant global wealth, we assess legal tools aligned with your governance and estate goals.
How often should international families review their plans?
We recommend regular updates tied to asset changes, family events or legal reforms — with ongoing legal oversight at your side.