Preparing for the Test d’Évaluation de Français (TEF) can feel overwhelming, but with the right exercises and strategies, you can master the skills needed to excel. One critical section of the TEF is understanding and responding effectively to real-world scenarios, such as reading advertisements or engaging in conversations. To make your preparation even easier, Listenact’s TEF Book offers carefully crafted exercises and tips tailored to boost your confidence and help you achieve your goals. Whether you’re focusing on comprehension or refining your ability to ask relevant questions, this blog and the book will guide you step by step toward success.
À Vendre : Superbe Appartement 3 Pièces
Situé dans un quartier calme et recherché, cet appartement de 3 pièces offre un cadre de vie confortable et moderne. Idéal pour une famille ou un couple, il se trouve à proximité des commerces, des écoles et des transports en commun.
Téléphonez au 01 78 10 32 43
Typical Questions to ask
- Pouvez-vous me préciser l’adresse exacte de l’appartement ? – Can you give me the exact address of the apartment?
- Quelle est la superficie exacte de l’appartement ? – What is the exact area of the apartment?
- L’appartement est-il bien isolé (thermiquement et acoustiquement) ? – Is the apartment well-insulated (thermally and acoustically)?
- Depuis combien de temps l’appartement est-il en vente ? – How long has the apartment been on the market?
- Y a-t-il des travaux récents ou des rénovations effectuées ? – Have there been any recent repairs or renovations?
- Quelles sont les charges de copropriété ? – What are the co-ownership fees?
- Y a-t-il des frais supplémentaires (taxe foncière, etc.) à prévoir ? – Are there any additional costs (property tax, etc.) to expect?
- Le bâtiment dispose-t-il d’un ascenseur ? – Does the building have an elevator?
- Quel est l’état de la plomberie et de l’électricité ? – What is the condition of the plumbing and electricity?
- Y a-t-il un syndic de copropriété ? – Is there a property management company?
- Est-ce que l’appartement est vendu avec une place de parking ? – Is the apartment sold with a parking space?
- Y a-t-il des espaces de rangement ou des caves inclus ? – Are there any storage spaces or cellars included?
- Les fenêtres sont-elles en double vitrage ? – Are the windows double-glazed?
- Quels sont les transports en commun les plus proches ? – What is the nearest public transportation?
- Pourquoi les propriétaires actuels vendent-ils l’appartement ? – Why are the current owners selling the apartment?
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- Quels sont les délais pour la vente (disponibilité immédiate ou à une date ultérieure) ? – What are the timelines for the sale (immediate availability or later)?
- Y a-t-il des commerces, écoles, ou services à proximité immédiate ? – Are there shops, schools, or services nearby?
- Est-il possible de visiter l’appartement ? Si oui, quand serait-il possible ? – Is it possible to visit the apartment? If so, when would be convenient?
- Quel est le prix de l’appartement ? – What is the price of the apartment?
- Le prix est-il négociable ? – Is the price negotiable?
In the TEF exam, the type of interaction or questions remain consistent, but the details will change. You need to pay close attention and carefully read the description of the advertisement. Avoid asking questions about information that is already provided in the ad. For example, if the ad states that the apartment has two rooms, you should not ask how many rooms there are. Similarly, if it mentions that the apartment is bright, you should avoid asking if it gets a lot of light.
Ownership vs. Lease Terms
For buying: You’ll need to ask about ownership documents (title deeds, property tax history), home inspections, and the overall condition of the property.
For renting: The focus is more on the lease agreement, deposit requirements, and conditions for breaking the lease.
Long-term vs. Short-term Commitment
For buying: It’s a long-term investment, so you may want to ask about property appreciation, neighborhood development, and future resale value.
For renting: You’ll likely be more concerned with the duration of the lease, renewal terms, and the possibility of rent increases.
Repairs and Maintenance
For buying: You should inquire about the condition of the building structure, past renovations, and future maintenance costs (especially in co-owned properties).
For renting: You’ll focus more on who is responsible for repairs (landlord vs. tenant) and whether maintenance services are included in the rent.
Costs
For buying: You may ask about closing costs, property taxes, mortgage options, and whether there are any liens on the property.
For renting: The main concerns will be the rent amount, deposit, utilities, and any additional charges (such as parking or maintenance fees).
Flexibility
For buying: You’ll want to understand if the property allows for modifications or expansions (e.g., adding a room, remodeling the kitchen).
Restrictions tend to be tighter, so it’s important to ask about rules for modifications, painting, or even installing appliances.
Transferability
For buying: Ask about property transfer or resale options, particularly if the apartment is part of a co-op or if there are special legal conditions.
For renting: You might inquire about subletting or transferring the lease if your circumstances change.
The TEF exam is not just a test of your French language skills but also your ability to think critically and communicate effectively in real-life situations. By practicing the exercises shared here and exploring the detailed strategies in our “Mastering TEF Canada Expression Orale: Your Speaking Guide“, you’ll be better equipped to tackle the exam with confidence. Make this book your trusted companion and take a step closer to your French proficiency dreams. Start practicing today and say bonne chance to your future!
