A personal introduction
My name is Martin Smulders, Dutch, living in France since January 2001. After half a century in The Netherlands, experiencing more and more the pressure of a too densely populated country, my wife and I decided to leave the rat race to do gites and management courses in rural France.
Our house agent in the Bouriane, Charles Loftie, and Englishman, then asked me to come and work with his company. This was an interesting opportunity. I have been busy developing especially the Dutch market since then. Since 2006 Bouriane Maisons has started as an independent houseagency.
Having my background in Dutch secondary education (commercial sales, presentation and business English, in total 30 years of teaching) I have ventured into the world of houses, land and notaries. I must say that I really learned a lot in the Lot.
According to my accountant I'm the best selling agent in the department so I dare say now that I'm more or less in control. Many of my clients have become good friends after joining us in thes paradise.
France is a country which slowly adapts to being a member of the European community. It still is the very burocratic country. You have to be patient and pass many desks to get things done. And moreover the French language is not very easy.
However, also thanks to the very hospitable French, we have very well integrated in our village of Marminiac. We really love living and working in this wonderful country.
It took us a year to find our dreamhouse. A year with many disappointing encounters with French house agents. With this in the back of my mind I really make a point of offering the most complete service to those who want to join us in the Lot.
From the moment we get to know each other I'll be committed to find you a home in this area. I'll help you through all stages like visits of properties, negotiations, contacts with professional like notaries, technical and financial experts, etc. I'll gladly advise you on your possible commercial projects.
When a contract has been signed you will always be welcome to ask my advice and assistance on various things like opening bank accounts, visiting schools, negotiations with architects and/or builders. I'll charge a modest commission on an hourly base for this.
À bientôt
Maarten Smulders
House of the month
