If you’ve ever dreamed of moving to Paris, you’re not alone. The allure of the City of Lights draws many, but the process can be daunting. To shed light on the ins and outs of moving to Paris, we turn to Delphine Brière, founder of My Paris Touch, a service designed to help internationals find homes and navigate life in the French capital.
Founding My Paris Touch
Delphine was born in Normandy and moved to the Paris region as a child. Her deep connection to the city began early, and despite a brief stint abroad, Paris has always felt like home. With 25 years of experience living in the same Parisian apartment, Delphine understands the intricacies of the city’s housing market and the challenges newcomers face.
After years of working for prominent American companies, she realized she needed a change. A fortuitous layoff provided her the time and resources to reflect on what she truly wanted. With the help of a coach, she discovered her passion for assisting others, leading her to start My Paris Touch, where she helps expats find homes and settle into Parisian life.
Navigating the Parisian Rental Market
Moving to Paris involves understanding a rental market that significantly differs from those in other countries. One of the common obstacles is the lack of a centralized listing service, making it challenging to find available apartments. Language barriers and cultural differences in customer service also add difficulties for non-French speakers. Delphine highlights the importance of having a “garant” or guarantor when renting in Paris. This requirement can surprise many, especially those who are financially stable, as it often involves asking family or friends to co-sign the lease. In recent years, services like GuaranteeMe have emerged to help expats by acting as a guarantor for a fee, which some agencies are beginning to accept.
Practical Tips for Prospective Paris Residents
Financial readiness and realistic expectations are crucial when considering a move to Paris. Delphine advises future residents to familiarize themselves with the different neighborhoods and their unique characteristics. For example, some older buildings may lack modern amenities like elevators, and the charm of a historical apartment might come with quirks that differ from what many are accustomed to. Delphine suggests starting the search by exploring rental websites and considering whether a furnished or unfurnished apartment suits your needs. Rental prices in Paris can be significantly higher than in other parts of France, so it’s essential to adjust budgets accordingly.
Embracing the Parisian Lifestyle
Beyond the logistics of moving, Delphine encourages new residents to immerse themselves in the local culture. Visiting street markets, building relationships with local vendors, and exploring lesser-known gardens and museums can enhance the Parisian experience. Delphine shares some of her favorite hidden gems, like the Musée de Balzac’s garden and scenic apartments with river views, to inspire newcomers to explore beyond the tourist hotspots.
Finding a community is crucial for new arrivals, and Delphine emphasizes the importance of joining expat and interest-based groups. Whether it’s a women’s group or communities focusing on shared passions like history and photography, these connections can make the transition to Parisian life smoother and more enjoyable.
For those dreaming of moving to Paris, Delphine and My Paris Touch offer valuable support and insights. Delphine’s personal experience and dedication to helping others provide a reliable guide for navigating the complexities of the Parisian housing market and settling into a new life in this iconic city. Whether you’re considering a short-term stay or a permanent move, Delphine’s expertise can make your Parisian dream a reality. Delphine offers free 30-minute consultations to help you get started on your journey to the City of Lights. For more information on how to make your move to Paris seamless, visit MyParisTouch.com or follow along with Delphine and My Paris Touch on Instagram!
