You reserve online "Gîtes de France" ou "Clévacances" labelled rentals:  there are rural gite rentals, houses or furnished apartments.

Following your reservation, you will receive a contract with a full description, and including the price for the stay, the administrative cost and a quotation for a cancellation insurance.

Your reservation will become effective as soon as you send to the call centre a deposit of 25% of the total cost and a copy of the contract with your signature.  This must be sent within 10 days (for a contract from France) or 15 days (for a contract signed abroad).