The book to accompany the popular Channel 4 daytime TV series. The book doesn't really offer a huge amount of advice regarding the specifics of home ownership in France - but it clearly isn't trying to. 
It looks at a wide range of countries and comments on the pros and cons of each. Inspirational rather than perspirational. Lots of colour photos.

This is an alternative to David Hampshire's Living and Working in France reviewed above. The book has a slightly lighter and more personal style but is still packed with information. Written by an American now resident in France it is particularly suitable for other Americans thinking of doing the same thing. 

New review 27th October:
Kelly Lute from California USA told us that she rates this title: Very Good
She says: "Must have for anyone relocating to France. I love this book...it is the most practical one I have found." 

Two things: I don't read that much fiction, and I have a terrible memory. But I remember the moment I picked up Julian Barnes' "Staring at the Sun" in a bookshop in Oxford 14 years ago - I read half a page and was spellbound. I'd still say it is probably my favourite book. Years later I was pleasantly surprised to find JB is a keen francophile. He has written several books on a French theme and "Cross Channel" is a collection of short stories looking at the relationship between the British and French.

This book isn't geared towards French building regulations - so certain sections should be avoided e.g. electrics - where the French have a very different system. However, it is still hugely handy - covering lots of issues that you will almost definitely come across - planning the work, dealing with damp, insulation, and security. Bang up to date and offered with a great discount through Amazon.

How many times have you read "You shouldn't consider French property as an investment"? If you're interested in French property I bet you've read it a dozen times or more. Historically it's probably a sensible viewpoint - but it ignores the fact that the world moves on. French property is relatively cheap, and the south coast of England is horribly over populated. Transport links to France are better than ever (ferries, tunnels and cheap flights). All these things make French property look more and more attractive. Certainly a very long term investment - but an investment worth considering. If you tend to agree this is a great book to help maximise your return.

Probably the best way to learn is through experience. However, it can save time and hassle if the experiences are someone else's (particularly if they aren't ones you'd like to have yourself!) George has written a whole series of extremely popular books about his life in France. This was the one that started it all off. 

Ever considered giving up the day job, selling your English home and moving south?  If so you should read this. It is only the price of a couple of magazines - but it will give you a valuable insight into what to expect. This couple sold up and purchased a treasure of a property down in the south of France (near Toulouse) where they have built up quite a successful holiday business. Fun to read with lots of lessons to learn from. Would make a cheap and cheerful present for someone dreaming of a move over the water. 

Not a text book - more of a review of France and French Living. If you want to live in a French way rather than take your little bit of England over the Channel, then this book is for you. You will gain a valuable appreciation of the regions - their specialities and peculiarities. Dealing not only with property issues but also entertaining and interior design.   This book will help ensure that you don't stick out like a sore thumb.

If you are like me, you'll know enough French to get by in a restaurant, but not enough to really understand what is going on! You will also have had the lessons, bought the tapes and read the book. All worthwhile but all fail to fit the bill somehow. Well read on... The French Experience is an interactive multimedia package that teaches through themed lessons and role-playing.  It is fun enough to keep you interested, but serious enough to teach you something useful. Great for learning practical French. 

Strange to see a book on buying a home in Spain on a French Property website?! True - but many people considering France also keep half an eye on Spain. The road to property ownership can be much rockier than in England or France - so it is important to be armed with the best information. This book tells you pretty much all you need to know and is just as good as David's book on France. Packed with info that would take ages to find out any other way.