What is a property hunter?
A property hunter (or buyer's agent) is a professional engaged exclusively by the buyer to search for, vet and negotiate a property purchase. Unlike an estate agent, who represents the seller, a property hunter works solely in the buyer's interest. In 2026, with Paris prices averaging €10,500/m², Home Select has been supporting buyers since 2011 with 16 dedicated hunters, an average 45-day search and a 6% reduction on the asking price.
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Where does the profession of property hunter come from?
The property hunter profession originated in the United States in the 1990s under the name "buyer's agent". It took root in France from the early 2000s, in response to buyers' growing need for proper representation in a complex and time-consuming property market.
Today, property hunters are recognised players in the French property market, particularly in major cities such as Paris where market pressure makes searching on your own increasingly difficult.
What is the legal framework for property hunters?
The property hunter profession is strictly regulated by the Hoguet law of 2 January 1970 and its implementing decree of 20 July 1972. This framework guarantees professionalism and protects the buyer.
Professional card "T"
Issued by the Chamber of Commerce, it certifies the holder's competence and right to practise.
Financial guarantee
Protection of any funds held on behalf of clients.
Professional liability insurance
Cover for any damages caused in the course of practice.
Written mandate required
A written contract setting out the brief, the duration and the fees.
What does a property hunter do?
A property hunter is at your side at every stage of the search, from the first brief to the keys in your hand.
Defining the brief
A close look at your needs, criteria, budget and lifestyle so the search targets only the right properties.
Searching and sourcing
Working the public market (listings) and the off-market (our partner network, concierges, notaries and agents).
Pre-viewings and selection
Your hunter views the properties first and only presents the ones that genuinely match your brief.
Technical analysis
Checking the condition of the property, the diagnostics, the health of the co-ownership and any planned works.
Price negotiation
A considered offer strategy and negotiation with the seller or their agent to secure the best price.
Legal support
Tracking the preliminary contract and conditions precedent, and coordinating with the notary through to completion.
Property hunter and estate agent
The fundamental difference lies in the alignment of interests.
Property hunter
- Represents the buyer
- Has an interest in negotiating the lowest price
- Searches the entire market
- Paid by the buyer
Estate agent
- Represents the seller
- Has an interest in selling at the highest price
- Only offers their own listings
- Commission paid by the seller
Frequently asked questions
Is the property hunter profession regulated?
Why use a property hunter rather than searching on my own?
Does the property hunter work with estate agents?
Your project starts here
Let's talk through your search over 30 minutes. First call free, no commitment. Our 16 property hunters are ready to find your home in Paris.
Home Select, property hunter in Paris since 2011.
