To purchase an existing business is not cheap, even small ones will generally start from around 350.000 euros (+ fees & taxes), with the large “all singing all dancing” ones fetching millions of euros.

Sales of campsites in France are generally handled by specialist commercial agencies with which Eclipse collaborates.

The Eclipse experience extends over many years on a variety of projects. A selection of currently available sites is listed, our associates have more on file. At this stage some observations may be worthwhile:

• Set up projects are not advised – the timescale is lengthy (maybe 3 to 5 years before any income arises), compliance with regulations can be infuriating and is certainly costly.
• Loans are not easy to obtain and when available are unlikely to be more than 50% of total price (including fees).
• Banks will require a comprehensive presentation – obtain the assistance of an expert "comptable" (accountant) to prepare forecasts in standard French format. It usually makes sense to use the existing accountant.
• Do not underestimate costs, invariably these are always higher than expected.
• Be aware that the banks will only look at declared figures in certified accounts.
• On going investment is required to maintain standards and to develop the business.
• The cash investment must be readily available – it is no good simply having a house on the market.
• Ensure there is available at least a 1 year contingency fund.
• Consider buying a commercial lease with maybe the option to purchase the freehold at a later date – initial investment will be much reduced.
• Generally initial information will be sketchy – do not expect UK-type details. In particular accounts are rarely available until a visit is made. Regrettably there are many dreamers about and consequently time-wasters.