Moving to France in 9 MONTHS | "It wasn't as scary as I thought"
By Richard Hammond | Published 2026-07-17
Moving to France in 9 Months: Bryan & Dezra's Story
Have you ever dreamt of trading the hustle and bustle of corporate life for the tranquil charm of the French countryside? What if I told you it could happen in less than nine months? That's exactly what Bryan and Dezra, an American couple from Pennsylvania, achieved with the right guidance and a clear vision. Their inspiring journey, shared in my latest YouTube video, proves that moving to France quickly and smoothly is not just a pipe dream, but a tangible reality.
⏱ Key Moments in This Video
Click any timestamp to jump directly to that section:
- 0:00 — Initial worries
- 0:24 — Meet Bryan and Dezra
- 1:05 — Why Bryan and Dezra moved to France from the USA
- 1:56 — How they found French Connections HCB on their search for help in moving to France
- 2:28 — Retiring from corporate America to France was easier than expected
- 3:17 — Enjoying life in Condom, southwestern France in the department of Gers
- 5:34 — Daily life in France and setting up their new home
- 5:58 — How they transported their belongings to France
- 6:12 — Cost of housing in France compared to the USA and videos of their home
- 7:15 — What they really wanted for their home in France
- 7:45 — How much did it cost them to move to France? A realistic budget including French Connections HCB costs
- 8:48 — How French Connections HCB helped them move to France
- 9:22 — Bringing three dogs to France from the USA
- 9:37 — French Connections HCB vs other competitors
- 10:57 — Choosing the right location in France with Region Matcher scouting trips
- 11:28 — Choosing properties with the help of French Connections HCB & associated fees
- 13:53 — Buying a house in France compared the USA
- 14:59 — Navigating the French Visa process
- 16:20 — Everyday life in France vs the USA
- 17:48 — Do they feel at home in France?
- 18:16 — Tips for people who want to move to France
- 19:40 — Mapping out the cost of moving to France and making a plan
- 20:35 — Worries about applying for their French residency cards
- 21:53 — Surviving in France without knowing French
- 22:45 — Moving to France in less than 9 months & enjoying their new life
Key Takeaways from This Video
- Rapid Relocation is Possible: Bryan and Dezra moved to France in under nine months, demonstrating that with expert help, a swift transition is achievable.
- Retirement in France is Accessible: Leaving corporate America for a relaxed life in France can be easier than anticipated, especially with professional support.
- Comprehensive Support is Crucial: Services like property scouting, visa navigation, and assistance with bringing pets are invaluable for a stress-free move.
- Budgeting is Key: Understanding the realistic costs involved, including professional fees, is essential for a successful relocation.
- Integration is Rewarding: Even without immediate fluency in French, it's possible to thrive and feel at home in France.
From Dream to Reality: A Swift Move to France
Bryan and Dezra's story is a testament to how quickly a dream can become reality when you have the right support. They went from contemplating an international move to enjoying their new life in Condom, southwestern France, in less than nine months (0:00 - 2:28). Their initial worries quickly dissipated as they realised the process wasn't as daunting as they first imagined. This rapid transition was made possible by their proactive approach and, as they explain, the comprehensive assistance they received.
Finding the Perfect Home and Location
One of the biggest hurdles for anyone moving abroad is finding the right place to live. Bryan and Dezra highlight the invaluable role of our Region Matcher service in helping them pinpoint their ideal location and property (10:57 - 13:53). They were looking for a specific type of home – one that offered space, character, and a true sense of French living. They share how the scouting trips and property selection process, guided by French Connections HCB, allowed them to find a home that perfectly matched their desires, even providing videos of their prospective property (6:12 - 7:45). They also discuss the cost of housing in France compared to the USA, noting the significant value they found in their new French home.
Navigating the Complexities: Visas, Pets, and Belongings
Moving internationally involves a myriad of logistical challenges, from visa applications to transporting personal belongings and even pets. Bryan and Dezra candidly discuss their experience with the French visa process, acknowledging it can be complex but manageable with expert guidance (14:59). They also share their journey of bringing three dogs to France from the USA, a process that requires careful planning and adherence to regulations (9:22). Furthermore, they detail how they transported their belongings to France, providing practical insights for anyone planning a similar move (5:58). These aspects, often sources of significant stress, were made considerably smoother through the support they received, illustrating the importance of comprehensive relocation services.
Next Steps
Bryan and Dezra's story is a powerful reminder that your dream of moving to France is within reach. If you're inspired by their journey and ready to start your own, I invite you to explore how French Connections HCB can help. We offer tailored support to make your relocation as seamless as possible.
- Discover more about the French visa process.
- Understand the cost of living in France.
- Start planning your move with our expert guides.
- Check your eligibility with our Visa Checker.
Ready to take the first step? Get a personalised quote today or chat with us directly on WhatsApp.