Just so everyone is aware.

French law differs from the Swiss law.

When you rent an accomodation in France:

- If the place is unfurnished, the tenant is required to give a 3 months notice, unless being transferred for professional reasons (Then it becomes 1 month notice).

- If the place is furnished, the tenant is required to give 1 (ONE) month notice ONLY.

Notices have go be sent by registered post.  It is not necessary to wait for the end of the month, it is valid from the day you send the notice by registered post.

One more point: as much as owners prefer long term lease (which I can understand), there is no minimum lease mandatory (I.e. 1 year or 2).  Even if a lease for a furnished flat show 1 year minimum, tenants have got the right to hand their notice anytime they want as long as they give ONE month notice.  Any landlords forcing you to stay longer acts against the law, even if they write it on their lease (tenants will win in court).  Even if a lease for an unfurnished flat show a 3 year lease, you have To give 3 months notice, that's ALL.

Good luck in your flat search!