French Property Conference - Living and Investing in France

Conference Participants Comments

Living and Investing
in France
Real Estate Conference
July 26-27, 2008
San Francisco
An Alliance Française of San Francisco Special Event!

"Anyone interested in buying property in France for the first time NEEDS to attend this program."

"It was fantastic. I'm excited to have all these new resources."

"Takes a lot of fear of buying overseas away."

"This was a very informative experience that I will highly recommend to others. It was completely worth crossing the country for the two days!"

"Even though I was only able to attend the Saturday conference in San Francisco, I would say that it was worthwhile."

"Thanks again for organizing the seminar and sharing your collective knowledge. It was extremely educational, entertaining, and a pleasure to meet/see you in person. There are specific friends who I'm encouraging to attend in the future."

Living and Investing in France Real Estate Conference
February 16 & 17, 2008
Miami
An Alliance Française of Miami Special Event!

"I found all of the presenters to be knoweldgeable in their respective fields and very capable in the Q & A. It is not often I have the opportunity to attend a seminar which had been so well conceived in subject and pacing. I left with a better understanding of the French real property system, so my primary purpose was accomplished."

"Just wanted to thank you for the great learning experience
in Miami this past weekend. You assembled a truly knowledgeable group and we've gotten a lot of our questions sorted."

"Thank you for providing such wonderful presenters and information to us at the recent conference in Miami, and for the follow-up printed material. I am doing the additional research suggested by each of your top-flight professionals, and I will be seriously looking into purchasing property in France -- probably in early 2009."

"John is a great speaker -- makes complicate dry matter intelligible and even entertaining."

"A good conference -- a lot of useful information if one is planning to live or invest in France."

"Excellent Seminar! Complicated issues explained very simply so easy to understand. Well worth the time and money."

"After the first day, I felt like I got my money back two fold!"

"We enjoyed networking with everyone and meeting great people with similar interests!"

"I found it informative, useful and well planned."

"Very, very useful! Thank you, Adrian. You put together a wonderful group."

Living and Investing in France Real Estate Conference
October 13, 2007
Paris, France

"Good seminar to get started.

"Lunch/networking – very good – nice venue."

"John and Adrian are strongest part of program. Very U.S. based but understand, as the majority of attendees are from there."

Living and Investing in France Real Estate Conference
July 7 - 8, 2007
San Francisco
An Alliance Française of San Francisco Special Event!

"Thank you and all the other presenters for a great conference in San Francisco. My wife, Roberta and me, had a great time and it was very informative." Stefan Lafloer

"The conference was above and beyond my expectations - thank you for putting together such an interesting agenda! Very very worthwhile for me." Mike Gallin

"My husband and I attended the conference in San Francisco. It answered many of our questions about buying property in France. Thank you!" Susan Cudnohfsky

"First, having not met you before and being a skeptic, I wondered how much I could really expect from your seminar. I wondered how much value this woman could actually deliver and after so many people had dealt with you how much fatigue you might have from people overdose. My background is in high tech in positions where every day I would visit customers with salespeople and be the guy on stage to deliver the message and run the meetings. I gave my all to it and after a while I get exhausted, so I expected more of that from you. Quite on the contrary, you were fresh with each new person. Most importantly it was real. I developed a sense that you added great value and were someone I could work with. You have great credibility. So, my comments on the two days: I bought a Runco projector for HD for a friend a few months back. It originally sold for about $19k and I got it used in good condition for $100. Until your Seminar, that was the best deal I have gotten all year." Barry Fitzgerald

About John Howell, The International Law Partnership: "This guy is a walking encyclopedia. His presentation alone is always worth the money." "Well prepared." "Well done -- good humor (humor!!) and clear help. "Informative and helpful." "Without Howell seminar not worth attending -- he’s brilliant, excellent presentation." "Lots of info in enjoyable fashion." "Beautifully organized -- understandable!" "Thank your for all your expertise in the reality that I can now begin actively pursue my dream of moving to France for my retirement." "Very informative." "Good overall broad overview of the investment options -- with upsides and downsides clearly defined for each option." "Really interesting -- he is very (extremely) knowledgeable." "Learned a lot." "Very good." "Excellent." "Always informative." "Knows everything." "Very valuable legal advice." "He is very funny, very easy to listen to…and he is loaded with eye-opening information." "Excellent, frighteningly clear." "Thank you for the information about buying property, but particularly about the rules about inheritance taxes." "Really fast -- but I found the information delivered in a clear and confident manner. Left with the feeling that John Howell put the answers to my questions and the knowledge to help stay me clear of expensive pitfalls."

Marcell Filipe joined forces with John Howell when speaking about taxation on both the U.S. and French sides, an attendee remarked, "Howell and Felipe -- more information and easier to understand." "Helpful." "Really interesting." "Great information." "Almost too much information to absorb! -- but good to be put on notice of all the potential issues." "Wish he had more time, but it was quite informative." "Super important info bringing it all into reality." "US Tax Law? Thank you. No double tax!"

About Peter Zipper of Caye International Bank Offshore banking in Belize, one wrote, "Fabulous, clear, direct, the real world. What a personality. Huge credibility." Stéphane Denner of Banque Patrimoine et Immobilier, provided "clear, direct details as to the [loan] process and requirements." "Very informative." "Good presentation." "Would like to see some pros+ cons -- if it’s so good why doesn’t everyone do it?" "Very interesting." "Excellent presenter." "Good speaker." "Most interesting and intriguing -- plus entertaining!" "Quite unique, entertaining and informative." "Very interesting… the time he spoke went by fast. Very polished speaker. Would have benefited from a bit more time for questions -- he was mobbed at the coffee break." "Fabulous -- clear, direct. The real world. What a personality. Huge credibility." "Fantastic! Yes, I plan to bank offshore and Belize is my first option. Thank you for your factual, enjoyable, humorous presentation."

A few newcomers added even more depth. It was the first time for Paris Home Shares' Steve Navaro, who described just how his Fractional Ownership program works and details about the current project for sale called "Le Jardin Saint-Paul," just at the foot of rue des Rosiers in Le Marais. About Steven Navaro: "Very much enjoyed this -- perhaps an outline of the details of owners’ agreement for fractional owners’ group." "Very interesting." "Interesting market that he has focused on." "Info on fractional ownership was good." "I’m wondering about different levels of properties -- I’d prefer something more funky (though still comfortable) with modern furniture. It would be nice to learn about a broader range of shared spaces." "Excellent outline of how this works -- very interesting option." "Excellent -- I understand the process better." "One of the main reasons we returned to this conference was to hear about fractional ownership. We are definitely interested in joining an f/o." "Fantastic opportunity, simple, well prepared." "Interesting concept, new information for me." "Very informative -- looks like a very viable entry into the market. Will consider." "This is a new concept/ topic for me so I did find it very interesting." "This topic requires more than 30-45 minutes presentation. It could be a ½ day sub-set of the overall seminar. I would like to learn more on this topic."

About Adrian Leeds, Adrian Leeds Group, LLC: "Clear, sharp and fun! Thank you for your outgoing personality and presentation." "Nice that you try to get a sense of participants and their goals"
"Always enjoy your passionate and positive attitude towards your adopted country."Our fearless leader always reminds us why we need to love our lives in Paris and own!' "You shine when you share." "Adrian and John Howell are an unbeatable team." "Excellent." "Very helpful." "Wonderful." "Very informative. The information is incredible! I plan to do my homework and make a concrete plan." "Highlights/ definitions of architecture and features very helpful in helping assess (and put a name to) properties that really interest me." "Appreciated the detailed information." "As usual, lots of good and practical information." "Thoughtful, concise, fun, well prepared." "I realize it is written on your FPI Web site but hearing it from you directly is far more meaningful." "Well… Ab fab! Very clear, makes good sense." "Thank you. This is very informative outside what I plan to do. Purchase and live outside of Paris. " "This was what I was looking for. Very helpful -- makes it real." Adrian at her best -- detailing specifics that are really important in assessing rental value of your prop and even specifies how to consider before identifying prop to purchase."

About Keith Maillard, Alliance Française of San Francisco: "Very nice." "Heartfelt comments on the French language." "Great logical and simple points to make one feel more comfortable speaking French." "Thank you. I am ready to refresh my conversational French." "Ernest, heartfelt encouragement to take the leap and improve upon existing French language skills." "Keith made a concise presentation of approaches one can take but what I liked most was his reminder of how knowing/ speaking French can enhance appreciation and love of French culture. This was an important addition to the day’s discussion and reminder we owe it to ourselves to develop the comfort level to speak the language."

About Stephane Denner, Banque Patrimoine et Immobilier: "Very useful." "Perfect." "Extremely informative. And great appreciation for his willingness, patience+ clarity with attendee questions." "Finally some really detailed information re mortgages." "In the beginning his voice was too soft, but good information." "Absolutely excellent. We would not hesitate to use BPI services after this presentation." "Excellent, erudite, clear, lovely presentation." "He should feel free to tell people that their questions will be answered later in his presentation. He is too polite. His material is very useful and certain members of audience slowed him down." "Very clear and straightforward. Congenial, well presented." "Thank you. I am saving money now!" "Well presented, easy to understand. Will pursue." "Clear, direct details as to the process and requirements. It was excellent to have Stephane there explaining BPI’s policies himself and affording us a chance to meet him informally."

About Jody Cracknell and Justin Harris, HIFX Currency Specialists: "Jody and Just and Very well done." "Great job for first time! Perhaps might work on really listening to questions+ answering the question rather than repeating what he said in presentation (I am sure just first time jitters)." "Useful." "Interesting to learn what is out there. Loved the British accent." "Very helpful information -- was unaware of this service." "Very useful, good presentation." "I appreciate their explanation of how they make their money off the transaction. Seemed straightforward and honest." "Very important and critical info. Well-presented." "HIFX as an alternate to converting dollars to euros, it is worth looking into. Well done!" "Well done -- easy to understand." "HIFX -- eye-opener. Very important discussion."

In general, it was clear those attending were pleased. Further comments were, "Any of the long-time FPI subscribers know that this conference is the best value you have ever been able to offer." "This was soooo good! Enjoyed all of it -- so much information; speakers were great! Merci beaucoup -- can't wait to return (and live) in France!" "What we have learned: 1) plan, plan, plan, 2) expect to pay a lot, 3) glad we don't have kids to worry about inheriting and 4) don't be cheap...but we still love Paris!" "Very informative. I have a great deal of homework to do, plans to make, time lines to establish and rules to follow as I pursue my dream to move -- one way ticket to France! -- to live, retire and enjoy. I will visit the Marais when I visit next! Wonderful Conference!" "A real plus -- context except Belize section was very valuable." "Very worthwhile, thank you." " Great info -- nice to have handouts for note-taking." "Really great!" "So glad I finally got to attend. Lot sand lots of good information -- almost overwhelming but good to be on notice of all the issues before making decisions." "Very well presented." "Panel was very good -- wonderful to have a chance to ask range of questions." "Great handouts, most appreciated. Overall very worthwhile -- what more can you do, after all we’re Americans!" "John Howell is great! Very engaging speaker." "Thanks! Helpful and informative. Very well done." "So much to absorb, so much to do. Thank you, one and all. Thank you Alliance Française." "Dinner and socializing opportunity: key component to round out seminar. Comfort in knowing others are trying to accomplish exactly same goal as you." "Wonderful dinner, fantastic chef!!!

Living and Investing in France
Real Estate Seminar
Friday, December 29, 2006
Chez Jenny,
Paris, France

"This was very well put together, organized."
"Well worth the fees."
"Awesome! Thank you so much!"

Living and Investing in France Conference
September 16 and 17, 2006
Sheraton Suites San Diego
San Diego, California

"Now that the smoke has cleared and all papers signed I would like to one, thank you and your support group, including John Howell of The International Law Partnership, LLP, Justin Harris of HIFX, and the people at Banque Patrimoine & Immobilier in Paris for all the help in our quest to purchase a home in France.

Your conference in San Diego last fall was of the greatest assistance to us and gave us the right tools and contacts in our property search.

Justin Harris, of HIFX, last winter helped us to convert Dollars into Euros and deposited sums of monies into our French bank account when ever needed to provide enough funds to finalize our transaction. Laurent Juillet, of The International Law Partnership, LLP in London, spent many an hour assisting us in deciphering the French law and pointing out pitfalls before they caught us unprepared. His advice and counsel was wonderful. Thank heavens he spoke English, for I spent most of the time talking to him, and as you remember, my French is somewhat lacking. Celine Mineau, at Banque Patrimoine & Immobilier in Paris, was so helpful in helping us obtain a bank loan for the home.

I could go on for hours about their help, but needless to say the whole project from the beginning to end went very smoothly and in no small part because of their support.

I would be remiss if I did not say a few words about your part in this adventure. You were the catalyst that brought us together, you gave us vision and clarity, pointing us in the right direction, and provided the right tools to do the job. All it took for us was a lot of internet searching and a month on the ground to find the right place. But without your advice in advance, I feel we would not have been able to complete our mission as quickly as we did. And that was to find a home in France this year.

Thank you, Adrian, for all your help."

Pete and Liz Lismer

"Can't say enough good things about the whole conference -- what an amazing amount of information. I feel much more confident now about purchasing a French property."

"Wonderful program. Worth the cost and time. I feel very confident about purchasing property now."

"Let me take this opportunity to express my thanks to you and Adrian for a wonderful weekend. We are in the planning stages but we feel so much more relieved to think that this dream is indeed possible and not so scary when you have a really great team behind you. I am looking forward to making this happen, and working with this talented team of experts. As John so wisely advised, plan early and use expert advice."

"Overall, very good value -- lots of content, interesting presentations. Thanks for the good balance between seriousness and humor."

"Excellent info -- answered questions we didn't even know to ask!"

"Loved it!"

"This put our worries to rest!"

"Although investment income is not out intent, the info was very well done."

"Even though we don't plan to have a business, the information was fascinating."

"I really got what I needed -- an insider's perspective."

"Thank you...this was really helpful and surprisingly entertaining, for such a complicated and heavy subject." (Minimizing Tax)

"General information was very good, entertaining as well as informative."

Living and Investing in France Round Table
May 27, 2006

"A lot of information and entertaining, too!"

"Not just invaluable information. A lot of fun with delightful presenters."

"All excellent and interesting -- huge amount to assimilate so quickly."
"Very good. I feel it was well worth the afternoon."

"The dinner was great fun and a bargain, too, and the entertainment was a genuine 'lagniappe!'"

"Thank you again for enabling me to gain a basic understanding of the
intricacies of purchasing property in France. It was quite enlightening. Now I realize just how little I know ... and how very much more I will
have to learn."

Living and Investing in France Conference
Chez Jenny, Paris
March 17 - 19, 2006

"Have got to tell you the conference was fantastic -- best $'s we could have spent -- learned so much over and above what we already knew (which I thought was a lot) -- absolutely the best deal one could find."

"Excellent! The information gained at the conference was invaluable. Am incredibly impressed with the caliber of speakers."

" I really do think the speakers were wonderful."

"Better than my wildest expectations! I have gained a tremendous amount of knowledge and contacts."

" Excellent job! Thanks!"

"High-quality speakers amazingly so. I’m so glad I signed up for this course and look forward to buying and working with you all. The course is as good as promised no, better! Thank you!"

" I’m SO glad we came to this seminar. We look forward to future dealings for a long time. Many thanks."

Crossing the Cultural Divide: "Much of this information I’ve learned throughout the years, but I never tire of hearing it again. It’s a must for every American to understand our differences."

Obtaining the Right to be in France, Sebastien Oddos: "Liked his sensible approach, he is not stuffy and truly seems to understand the American client."

Sebastien Oddos: "Great speaker with lots of good information. Definitely saved us money in the first 30 minutes!"

Why Invest in France, John Howell: "What a gem! So much to learn and to take in but invaluable! Great articulator."

"I enjoyed seeing Adrian and Elisabeth interact. Lucy and Ethel the French/American version."

Living and Investing in France Conference
October 21 - 23, 2005
San Francisco

"Great to meet Adrian and hear why everyone came to the conference. Adrian’s personality shines through – the ultimate hostess!"

"This conference was the most informative conference I have ever attended. This info is life altering. Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!"

"Lots of useful information and comparisons between Anglo and French thinking – helpful."

"Great facts and presentation. These are exactly the answers I was seeking."

"Far exceeded expectations."

"Excellent tips in exchanges and practical “how to do it all.”"

"Super valuable info and great service."

"Great money saving information."

"Another great day. Well planned and executed. Dinner and Leonard were amazing."

"So much good information and advice."

"A lot of good tips on how to find management."

"it a lot of highlights. A lot of information in a short time."

"Very well worthwhile – thank you!"

"Good details, especially at panel where overviews made details and earlier presentations clear."

"Good idea – mingling and networking essential for starting a life in Paris."

"Entertaining and interesting. Leonard’s research was really insightful."

"Excellent!!! Great food and awesome presentation."

"All presenters were patient with questions and our repetitions! Above all presenters were interesting and informative, lively (for the most part) and funny! A weekend well spent – both in terms of time and money."

Invest in France Seminar
Harvard Club, New York City
Wednesday, October 26, 2005

"Dede and I really enjoyed your class in New York. It was excellent, all around. We enjoyed it all but in particular, John’s presentations. Dede and I now consider you are new best friend in Paris! Have a great day."

"Just a personal note of thanks for a wonderful seminar presentation in New York last week. If you couldn't tell by my 'glowing' comments on the program survey, it was superb and filled with very important information."

"I enjoyed the conference immensely. Everything was pertinent and the key was providing contact email addresses and phone numbers for further inquiry."

"Loved the entire seminar! Well planned and very thorough in content presented. Since I had conducted significant preliminary research and subscribe to FPI and Parler Paris I felt certainly well prepared and informed. Good pace – many thanks. Left feeling very informed and prepared for my next steps fortified with complete, knowledgeable professionals to support us."

"I like the way the group was introduced to each other."

"Wonderful to meet the lovely author of Parler Paris in person! As effervescing as her articles."

"Good overview of advantages and disadvantages of property investment."

"Very beneficial resource."

"Opened up some interesting aspects of loan procurement and interesting life insurance needs."

"Does an excellent job of highlighting and describing the difference and benefits/disadvantages of each area. His 'frankness' is appreciated."

"Excellent info and great insider tips."

"Great overview of where one should buy based on reason for buying."

"Good summary of key issues to consider."

"This was insider information that wouldn’t be available elsewhere."

"Great info about a highly useful service."

"Well done! Will give the information to our friends. Thanks so much!"

"I thoroughly enjoyed these talks. The more complex issues were easily presented and readily understandable."

Invest in France
Seminar
August 10, 2005
Paris, France

"This seminar was very well planned and executed. Even if presentations run long, this indicated a high level of interest. I feel so much better informed. Thanks!"

"Thanks for a very productive and useful day! Thanks to all the team!!"

"Good job! We really enjoyed it. What an eye opener! Thank you!"

Working and Living in France Conference
May 20 - 22, 2005
Les Jardins du Marais, Paris

"Thank you very much! This has been most informative and a must for anyone wanting to move to France."

"It was a fabulous experience - thank you!"

"Overall, a very impressive, insightful conference. The broad range of topics was interesting coupled with the opportunity to meet such market professionals in person was a priceless experience. Thank you for all of your efforts -- it's highly appreciated."

"Keep up the good and valuable work."

Living and Investing in France
Conference
February 11 -13, 2005
New Orleans

" Just thought I'd let you know that your seminar gave me ammunition to do what I have been trying to do for a long time: Buy a house!!!!! I would like to thank you, very much, for being instrumental in making things happen in my life!"

"As a marketing and real estate professional, I am very impressed and look forward to working with professionals of this caliber. Another worthwhile day -- well done."

"Great first day! Very excited about what lies ahead."

"We really enjoyed the conference and were in Paris less than a week later. It was only supposed to be a fishing expedition, but we found a really great place and put in an offer. We're going through the infamous French loan process now. Tedious, but not too bad. So, maybe we'll be the first ones from the NO conference to become French apartment owners. Thanks for everything...for putting together such a terrific presentation. Our realtor in Paris was very surprised with our understanding of the process. It was nice to know which questions to ask."

"This was the most valuable conference I have attended. Well organized, delivered and the content above average."

"All excellent! Excellent! Excellent! Thank you."

"This has long been of dream for me and going to the conference in New Orleans was the first step in making it a reality. The speakers were really great, particularly John Howell. Thanks for putting it together. All of the presentations were straight-forward and practical and we left with the information we needed to actually make this happen. I would recommend it to anyone."

Invest in France
Seminar
December 29, 2004
Paris, France

"All of the presentations contained a great deal of valuable information. I'm very impressed with how much everyone brought to this one-day seminar, and how well it all fit together. We are still looking at a lot of options, and this has helped give us things to think about with the opportunity to go to 'real people' to get our questions answered. Definitely time well-spent."

"As always, Adrian has presented a thoughtful and very informative conference. Each presenter had very useful information needed to purchase property in France. Once again, I have added to my knowledge base."

"The speakers were excellent, well informed and helpful. The lunch and facilities superb."

"I think the day was great. Lots of important information. Your honesty re buying in France was appreciated. I had anticipated more of a hard sell, so thanks! John Howell was great. Derek Bush a great resource. Adrian, I'd love everyone to have your energy. Thanks for your commitment."

"Thanks for a great conference! I feel confident that I will be able to find
and purchase my dream property in France using the information provided by your fine selection of speakers. And it was great getting to meet the other participants. Who'd have thought that one of the Californians was a librarian (as I am) who lives only 30 miles from me (when I'm in California)! Un très petit monde! Also, mille remerciements to Vincent for the delightful Paris By Night tour! What fun!"

Living and Investing in France
Conference
September 10 - 12, 2004
Washington, DC

"I am still reeling from this past week end. Ce n'était pas trop mal, madame. Pas de tout !!! Your hard work, effervescence, and true grit and the hard work of your staff and friends made for a wonderful experience. No, it wasn't a conference, it was an EXPERIENCE !!"

"I met wonderful, passionate people. Every speaker and each conversation enriched my knowledge as well as clarified that I have quite a bit to learn. But, the important reality now is that my ignorance is no longer scary. There is a way to move to France and there are people to help."

"At this stage, I continue to hesitate to move full speed ahead. My ties to family and friends in the states are very strong. However, I see that one day my dream can come true if I want it to. Thank you again, Adrian. I hope to see you on October 2nd. Je suis trés heureuse de faire votre connaissance, madame."

"Everyone was engaging and interesting, very intensive and comprehensive."

"Great program. Lots of useful information. A must do for anyone contemplating acquiring property in or moving to France. Thank you!"

"For a solid 3 days I was in France - and then I immersed myself in US history. I may be suffering from whiplash, I'm not sure yet. I do want to tell you how much I enjoyed the conference. The organization was outstanding. Even though it was a relatively small conference, keeping everyone and everything organized, the day's discussions focused, moving forward and on-time was no small feat. You are a good leader - firm but polite. Schuyler was, I'm sure, instrumental in that success also. Congratulations to both of you."

"I don't know how the lineup of speakers could have been better. I had done enough research to understand some of the basics and to know I needed help with the 'real' way of getting things done. For me, the material covered was a good blend of basic and more detailed specifics of French ways, laws and unspoken rules."

"It was a wonderful conference and I feel I've now turned the corner from dreaming to planning!"

"Adrian makes one want to move -- she bubbles. Her experience is real and she gives smart, practical information."

"I would 1000% recommend this conference to anyone! I already own my home, and found out plenty of great information. Each and everyone of your presenters was a gold mine of information. Thank you!!"

"This was a very good ROI -- return on investment! Each speaker was knowledgeable, informative and experienced on their topic. As leaders, you were organized and had a lot of materials -- handouts, books and binder. This conference will save me months of time and tons of disappointments to try to find the expertise presented and the personal contact with each speaker who now is a resource for me to achieve my dream. Thank you."

"Thirza was absolutely wonderful!! While it was a late evening, the information was extremely valuable. She is very interesting to listen to and an amazing wordsmith."

"The conference exceeded my expectations. I give conferences for a living and seldom do I go for other conferences that have so much concrete and usable take-away information. It is a huge plus that those presenting the knowledge are also individual who will actually provide the services. Very impressive! This conference is very inexpensive when compared to the value received."

"Adrian Leeds -- personable, eager and excited. Put audience at ease while she shared our comments. A good way to introduce attendees."

"Conference exceeded my expectations. Very valuable information. Left with concrete strategies to proceed with formalizing ideas and plans to relocate to France."

Working and Living in France
June 18 - 20, 2004
Paris, France

"....What can i say, except...excellent...the conference was much much more than I could have ever imagined...thank you and International Living for putting on such an exceptional conference...the format was great and the presenters were professional and very well prepared..I gained an enormous amount of knowledge; and it was just the sort of information that i was searching for...i can't say for sure that I am ready to make the move to Paris, but i will be visiting much more often...again, thank you, thank you, thank you..."

"I really enjoyed meeting you and your staff. Everything was perfectly organized and flowed in a logical order. Great job and many thanks."

"Congratualtions. Very good conference. Very Helpful."

"Great overall...will keep in touch."

"Overall, the presentations were excellent. I learned a lot, and I never would have been able to do this kind of research on my own. THANK YOU."

"Conference in general full of useful information. Really accomplishes the task it promises, professionally done, upbeat."

"Loved it! I would highly recommend! It exceeded my most optimistic expectations!! Thank you!"

Living and Investing in France
March 19 - 21, 2004
San Francisco, California

"I have been newly inspired to begin my move to Paris. The seminar in San Francisco in March was truly the
most worthwhile, informational event I've attended. I have taken the next step of consulting with my financial advisor on available assets for the move. Thank you for the encouragement the seminar provided. Thanks again for the fabulous information the seminar provided and for the shot in the arm each day from Parler Paris!! " Martha Bills

"I was originally was quite skeptical of the value of this conference as I've been to many over the years and the ones that are worth even the time, let alone the cost, are few and far between. This one was an exception. Very well organized with incredibly interesting and knowledgeable speakers. I thoroughly enjoyed every minute and have already begun making use of some of the great information you provided. My family and I have been to France many many times over the years and only just dreamed about actually actually owning a piece of it. But now, thanks to your conference, I think we'll just go ahead and do it!" Forrest Yelverton

"Sorry to be so boring by marking everything "Excellent," but no other word describes all the info and all the contacts provided at the conference. Thank you!!" Cathy Eifling

"My husband Robert and I had a terrific time at the IL Conference in San Francisco. It was wonderful to meet you and the staff of IL Paris. I hope you had a good time too. Terry's place looks spectacular, from the photograph. He was one of the best speakers you had, along with John Howell and Keith Maillard and Will Cole. Thirza's slide show was a tour de force. What a lot of work for her and what a lot of knowledge for all of us! Naturally Jocelyn knew his stuff and imparted it eloquently. But you were the best. As emcee, you did a great job and all the practical tips you gave and stories about your experiences were fantastic. I feel like I've actually been to Paris!" Sally Snyder (and Robert, too)

"I attended your fantastic seminar on Living and Investing in France the other weekend in San Francisco with my sister, Elizabeth Du Par. Thank you so much for a really valuable and meaningful seminar -- it is so nice to find the information and resources we need in one place, instead of wasting hours upon hours searching the web, making phone calls, etc. Plus, coming from real people who really live in or have emigrated to France (and other parts of Europe), makes everything presented much more credible and exciting. I am so glad I attended!" Michael Matz

"Conference in general exceeded my expectations. Excellent presenters and presentations." Connie Pecsar

"Workshops were tremendous resources not only for answering specific questions, but learning from others questions and interchange. Top notch speakers: John Howell and Jocelyn Carnegie. Fantastic marketer: Claude Nédérovique." Anonymous

"Excellent -– very info-packed and very practical – want to relocate ASAP." Anonymous

"Very impress seminar." Paul Mraz

"Overall seminar very good and very informative and worthwhile. Thank you." John Severson

Wokring and Living in France
October 2003
Paris, France

"I wanted to thank you for hosting such an enlightning event last month. There is much information to digest, but I am clearer with my thoughts of living/investing in French real estate. Without the knowledge I gained, I could have made terrible mistakes. I am much more confident now that whatever I decide to do, will be right."

"I just want to thank you for your effort in organizing the Working and Living in France conference. Even though I do not plan to do either at this time in my life, I do plan to return soon and rent while I am there. I found the speakers to be very articulate and informative and now feel I have some personal connections when I return. Thirza's knowledge of Paris is awesome and on a personal level she is so delightful. Merci une mille fois!!"

"Very informative and helpful. Gave me info for me to prepare myself to move here legally. Rose's info is very helpful with her contacts for employment. All practical information, It was good to hear about actual stories.Very informative and helpful. Gave me info for me to prepare myself to move here legally. Rose's info is very helpful with her contacts for employment. All practical information, It was good to hear about actual stories."

"Appreciated the forthright approach of the speakers, i.e. giving us all the facts as they saw them, good and bad and not just painting a pretty picture that is not the reality The speakers were very informative and interesting. Adrian and the others did a great job of organizing. Best IL conference I have attended."

"Overall good conference Good topics, speakers. Met expectations overall, as well. Nice networking opportunity to obtain contacts. Overall good value for the cost. Very nice and well organized social events (dinner, cocktail hours). Central location, nice hotel, but there should be opportunity to have functions all indoors (cold, inclement (sic) weather)."

Working and Living in France
May/June 2003
Paris, France

"I want to express my strongest and most heart-felt thanks for the 'Living and Working in France" conference. It was incredible and invaluable. I learned so much that it will take me a while to integrate it all."

"The introduction to Thirza Vallois was very enriching. What a gem! Overall, all of the presenters had presence and were skilled at sharing their expertise. Bringing all of these resources together was most helpful and generally encouraging, dispelling misconceptions and providing the information I had hoped to obtain. The intensity and comprehensiveness made me feel a sense of time and money well spent though I might suggest finishing just a bit earlier - maybe 5 - so that participants have more time out and about in Paris. Great program - I commend Adrian for pulling it together!"

"Overall, the conference was very informative and interesting."

"I thought that the seminar was very well conducted and extremely informative. I certainly learned a lot! Keep up the good job! A bientôt, j'espère!"

"This conference was very helpful. It provided the essential information I need to purchase and which is very difficult to obtain. It exceeded my expectations."

"Conference was high quality and more totally or fully exceeded my expectations and ability to sit still at conferences. Truly well done, my interest was high throughout."

"Thank you all immensely for the entire conference."

"Great conference! Thank you! I've been back in the States for two years now and realize, again, how much I miss Paris! Time to go back." Hollman Wong

"Very informative – everything in one place. Incredible! Great bunch of people. You covered so many important things. Thank you!" M. Linder

In a Letter from John Aiken

Robert and I have decided to take the plunge and move to Paris for retirement. There is no way we could have done it without the help of Adrian Leeds and all of the referrals she has put us in touch with. It is not possible to write a cookbook for a move to France; everyone's situation is different and unique but I would like to share some of the hurdles we have been able to get over.

First, a place to live: We chose our target date of July 1, 2004 for the move. We spent a week in Paris over the New Year holiday and met with several people to get help on our property search. We decided that since we want to live in Paris indefinitely, that we want to get exactly the right place and in order to do that we must be on-site to get to know the districts of Paris and the surrounding areas. We want to get the feel of a neighborhood before committing to live there. We walked all over Paris this past week and took several trips into the countryside by train. We met with apartment rental agents and shared all of our needs with them. They will then identify properties for us to look at when we go back in April.

Second, is getting through the immigration hoops and Jean Taquet was invaluable in that. He helped us fill out the application for the long stay visa and answered our questions about health insurance. And when we get to Paris he will help us with getting our carte de séjour.

Finally, John Howell in London went over several scenarios for property purchase and structuring our finances to minimize French inheritance tax. This is especially important for a gay couple but the French inheritance tax system will put a big dent in anyone's estate plan.

Lastly, our trip was particularly wonderful because we found that the weather is very tolerable even in the middle of winter...we had a beautiful light snow on New Year's Day. And the food is incredible.

John and Robert

Working and Living in France
October 2002
Paris, France

"Thank you for putting together a great cast of players to help me make my dream come true. Merci beacoup!"

"The degree of knowledge and the formidability of each speaker was far and above what I expected."

"The speakers were well prepared and did a great job. The information presented and handouts were well put together."

"This was an excellent, well organized event -- very helpful and useful information."

"The information I went away with was an extremely powerful tool for me, and I am sure for everyone there, to walk away with and make more focused choices and decisions."

"On Adrian and Schuyler: personally wanted to thank each one for their energy, time and the enthusiasm, as well as professionalism they poured forth in putting this seminar together. Much kudos."

" The contacts made are priceless; information, too."

"Thirza [Vallois] is FABULOUS!!! I got an orientation to Paris I have never before had and it was priceless!! Nancy Caldwell wonderful! Harriet Welty Rochefort wonderful!"

"I thought the seminar was very helpful. The information was presented in small, easily understandable pieces."

"Everybody was great. Lots of helpful information. All the speakers were bright and make their information entertaining and informative. Loved it."

"I thought Sam Okoshken was extremely knowledgeable."

The tour was a real highlight of the conference -- Thirza [Vallois] did an excellent job."

"Facilities were perfectly suited to the conference -- easy location to get to and from."

"Dinner at Chez Jenny was a delightful beginning."

"Most valuable information came from Jean Taquet, Glenn Cooper and Mary Fort."

"Contacts made here are invaluable -- and new friends made were a wonderful bonus."

"I'm glad I came -- it was very worthwhile."

"Overall, very good, but no doubt, June [conference] will be even better."

"Jean [Taquet] knows his stuff, is a great presenter and is humorous, too!"

"Jean [Taquet] was such a wealth of information!"

"Great Conference!"

Languedoc-Roussillon Tour
Participants' Comments
October 22 - 27, 2002

"Extremely valuable in providing an introduction to the region and for making local contacts."

"It was an excellent introduction to the area. We saw and experienced in a few days what it would have taken much longer to have done independently, and met people who will be very good future contacts."

"Useful -- would have taken many, many trips to get information we received in five days. Highly worthwhile!"

"Pretty good combination of showing various areas in the reagion and providing contacts and opportunities to see specific properties."

"Adrian Leeds MADE the trip -- wonderful wealth of information and lots of charisma. She helped us to understand a bit of French culture while making us laugh."

"Adrian Leeds was delightful!"

"Adrian was fabulous."

"I Thank the stars that crossed that allowed me to attend your conferences paris and languedoc 10/2002. I Returned to spend the month of feb 2003 to research feasibility, and before leaving, had made an offer on a village house in the herault dept. I Have spent the last two years completing and furnishing the house and changing my life in the us to allow me to live there as much as possible, starting now! If I could have an apartment in Paris instead of a condo in texas, then things would be just about perfect." In gratitude, Claudia Ssmith, Tourbe, Fance and ??? Usa

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