The search mandate explained

The search mandate is the official contract binding you to your property hunter. Required by the Hoguet law, it defines search criteria, fees, duration and each party's commitments.

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What is a search mandate?

A search mandate is a contract where you (the buyer) entrust a property hunter with finding a property matching your criteria.

This document is mandatory: under the Hoguet law, a hunter cannot receive fees without a prior written mandate. It's your legal protection.

Required mandate contents

Party identities

Full contact details of the client (you) and the agent (hunter).

Search object

Property type, surface area, number of rooms, location, budget.

Mandate duration

Validity period, typically 3 to 6 months, with renewal conditions.

Fees

Amount or percentage, payment terms (100% success-based at Home Select).

Mandate type

Exclusive or non-exclusive, with associated obligations.

Means deployed

Description of actions the hunter commits to perform.

Professional card number

Hunter's 'T' professional card with guarantees.

Cancellation terms

Conditions for ending the mandate before term.

Exclusive or non-exclusive mandate?

Exclusive mandate

You entrust the search to a single hunter. In return, they commit to mobilizing all their resources.

Maximum hunter commitment
Priority off-market access
Single dedicated contact

Simple mandate

You can search in parallel. The hunter is less committed as they risk not being paid.

Freedom to search in parallel
Lower hunter commitment
More complex coordination

At Home Select, we recommend the exclusive mandate for an effective search and maximum commitment from your hunter.

How long does the mandate last?

The standard duration for a search mandate is 3 to 6 months.

Activate their network and identify off-market properties
Prospect the entire market
Organize pre-viewings and shortlist properties
Negotiate calmly

At Home Select: average search time of 45 days. The mandate is renewable if needed.

Can you cancel a mandate?

Cancellation at expiry

The mandate ends naturally at the scheduled date, without any formalities.

Early cancellation

Possible with notice (typically 15 days), by registered letter.

Financial conséquences

With our 100% success-based model, no fees are due if the mandate is cancelled before a property is found.

Frequently asked questions

Is the mandate mandatory?

Yes, the Hoguet law requires a written mandate before any service. It's your protection: without a mandate, a hunter cannot receive fees.

What happens if I find a property myself during the mandate?

It depends on the type of mandate. With a simple mandate, you can buy a property found on your own without paying the hunter. With an exclusive mandate, the terms should be checked in the contract.

Can I modify criteria during the mandate?

Yes, criteria can evolve. An amendment to the mandate will formalize modifications (budget, area, surface...). This is common and perfectly normal in a property search.

When are fees due?

At Home Select, fees are 100% success-based: they're only due at signing of the final deed at the notary, i.e., when you officially become owner.

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