We had a place in France for 10 years. As others have said, learn French - I did evening classes and amazingly ended up getting an 'A' level.
Make friends with your neighbours; ours were a godsend.
Get a specialist dictionary of building, plumbing etc. terms. I got one that was broken down by subject, and it was invaluable.
Be aware that when you go to your local builders merchant, armed with all the required specialist terms, they WILL ask you something you hadn't thought of. Just ask them to show you.
Unless you are well away from everyone, don't do noisy jobs on a Sunday.
Above all, Have Fun.