French Mortgages

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French Mortgages Made Easy: Buy Property in France

Begin your journey to own property in France with confidence, supported by Worldwide Property Co. As international mortgage brokers and buyer’s agents, we excel in facilitating property acquisitions for non-residents in the French property market, offering expert advice on tailored solutions for French mortgages.

TAILORED SOLUTIONS FOR YOUR FRENCH PROPERTY NEEDS

Whether you’re envisioning a luxury villa in the French Riviera, a cosy ski chalet in the Alps, or a charming cottage in Provence, our services cater to your unique requirements. We work with leading French lenders to secure competitive rates and flexible terms, ensuring the best deals possible.

Your Trusted Partner in Overseas Property Investment

At Worldwide Property Co, we understand that purchasing property abroad can be complex. That’s why we actively assist our clients every step of the way, ensuring transparency and a hassle-free process from pre-approval to completion. Our provided information offers clarity and insight into your potential investment, empowering you to make informed decisions with confidence.

START YOUR FRENCH PROPERTY OWNERSHIP TODAY

Ready to explore property opportunities in France? Let Worldwide Property Co be your trusted ally. Gain insights into essential documents, understand the buying process, and discover tailored mortgage options.

Reach out to our team to begin achieving your property goals in France. Your adventure begins here.

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French Mortgage Services

French Mortgages by Region

In France, most of the banks are regional, not national. Even some large banks like Credit Agricole, have offices throughout France, but the branches of each region act independently of each other. As a result, there are different mortgage products available in each Region.

Mortgages in Biarritz and South West France

Mortgages in Bordeaux and Dordogne Region

Mortgages in the French Alps

Mortgages in French Riviera / Cote d’Azur

Mortgages in Languedoc / Occitanie

Mortgages in Normandy and Brittany

Mortgages in Paris

Mortgages in Provence

FAQs

The difficulty of securing a French mortgage depends largely on your specific circumstances and the type of loan you’re seeking. At Worldwide Property we understand the unique challenges international buyers face, and we’re here to guide you through the process every step of the way.

Here’s a quick overview:

  • Factors influencing your eligibility: Your income, credit score, nationality and the size of your deposit all play a role.
  • Different loan types have different requirements: Fixed-rate mortgages are relatively common and less stringent, while interest-only loans may require more assets and net worth.
  • Navigating the French system can be complex:Β From paperwork to legalities,Β the process can seem daunting.Β That’s where our expertise comes in.

Want to learn more about your specific situation? Check out our comprehensive guides on French mortgages or contact our team for your FREE personalised consultation!

The good news is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer! The minimum deposit for a French mortgage depends on several factors, including:

  • Loan-to-value (LTV) ratio: This is the percentage of the property’s value the bank will lend. Higher LTVs (meaning you borrow more) require higher deposits. Typical French mortgages range from 70% to 85% LTV, so expect a deposit of 15% to 30%.
  • Mortgage type: Different loan types have different rules. For example, bridging loans (“prΓͺt relais”) might require a larger deposit than standard mortgages.
  • Your financial situation: Strong income and credit history can give you access to lower deposit options.

Want the precise number for your dream home?

Our experts at Worldwide Property can crunch the numbers based on your specific situation and desired mortgage! We’ll help you navigate different LTV options, compare lenders, and determine the exact deposit amount to unlock your French property dreams.

Schedule yourΒ FREE consultationΒ now for your own personalised mortgage quote!

Yes, UK residents can get a mortgage in France! πŸ‡«πŸ‡·

Forget the hassle of navigating foreign banks and complex paperwork. Worldwide Property has your back. We partner directly with established French lenders, offering you:

  • Exclusive access to competitive rates and tailored solutions not available to the general public.
  • Expert guidance from your dedicated team. Whether you’re buying a home, investing in a rental, or exploring other options, we’ll connect you with the perfect French lender for your needs.
  • Smooth, streamlined navigation of the entire process. Our deep understanding of the French mortgage market ensures you get the best possible terms.

Ready to unlock your French property of dreams? Head over to our ‘French Mortgages for UK Residents’ page for a comprehensive overview of various types of mortgages.

Or, skip the research and grab a FREE consultation! Our international mortgage specialists will assess your situation and find the ideal French lender for your dream property.

With Worldwide Property your French mortgage journey is simpler, faster, and more successful. Let’s make your dream a reality!

Yes, foreigners can get a mortgage in France! πŸ‡«πŸ‡·

At Worldwide Property, we believe owning a piece of paradise shouldn’t be limited by borders. While the specific types of mortgages available and their requirements may vary depending on your situation, we’re experts at navigating the French mortgage landscape for international buyers.

Here’s a quick overview:

  • Most French banks offer mortgages to non-residents, though you might encounter slightly stricter conditions than locals.
  • The type of mortgage you seek plays a big role. Factors like residency status, property location, and intended use (primary residence, investment property) will influence your options.
  • Don’t worry, we’re here to guide you!Β Our team of international mortgage specialists has decades of experience helping foreigners secure the perfect French mortgage.

Ready to dive deeper? Head over to our ‘Mortgages for Foreigners in France’ page for a comprehensive breakdown of the process requirements, and frequently asked questions. We’ll walk you through everything from paperwork to property valuation, ensuring you can confidently pursue your French property dream.

Fast-track your research with a FREE consultation: Our mortgage specialists know the French market inside-out and will find the lender that perfectly aligns with your needs.

At Worldwide Property, we help international buyers avoid common pitfalls and secure their French property aspirations. While the specific challenges depend on your individual situation and the type of mortgage you seek and in which region. Here are some key areas where we can help you navigate the terrain:

  • Hidden costs:Β We’ll unveil the true picture,Β factoring in notary fees, taxes, furniture and potential renovation costs into your budget.
    French bureaucracy: Our multilingual experts take the stress out of paperwork, handling legalities and navigating complex documentation so you can focus on your dream home.
  • Understanding French inheritance laws:Β We’ll explain how your home fits into the French legal framework and help you ensure your estate passes to your loved ones according to your wishes.
  • Choosing the right mortgage:Β With in-depth knowledge of the local market and your financial situation,Β we’ll guide you towards the perfect French mortgage for your needs.

From finding the ideal property to securing the most advantageous mortgage. We’ll handle all the French paperwork, from contracts to taxes, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience. Think of us as your trusted French translator and advisor, navigating every step of the way.

Ready to live your French adventure without getting lost in the paperwork? Book a FREE consultation with one of our experts. We’ll break down the complexities, answer your questions, and build a personalised plan to turn your French dream into a reality!

Not necessarily! Whether you need a French bank account for your French property purchase depends on your specific mortgage financing situation. Here’s a quick breakdown:

If you’re using a French mortgage:

  • Highly recommended: While not mandatory, having a French bank account streamlines the process and makes managing your property finances easier after purchase. It facilitates direct debits for bills, mortgage payments, and property taxes.
  • Worldwide Property Co can help:Β We have strong relationships with French banks and can assist you in opening a suitable account before or after your purchase.

If you’re financing with a mortgage from your home country:

  • No immediate need: You can technically complete the purchase without a French account. However, managing recurring costs and receiving rental income might be cumbersome.
  • Long-term convenience:Β Consider opening a French account later for easier property management and potentially better exchange rates.

For a more detailed explanation and personalised advice based on your specific mortgage plan, schedule your FREE consultation with our expert mortgage advisors at Worldwide Property Co. We’ll guide you through every step of your French property purchase!

Ah, the dream of owning a French property without a hefty down payment! While it’s a tempting possibility, the answer to your question depends on specific regions and the type of mortgage you’re seeking.

The maximum loan-to-value (LTV) usually caps out at 85%, requiring at least a 15% down payment. However, it is possible to go up to 100% by depositing additional funds with a private bank.

Uncertain about your options? Don’t worry! At Worldwide Property Co, we’re experts in navigating the French mortgage landscape. We can:

  • Assess your eligibility for various mortgage programs.
  • Compare rates and terms from multiple lenders.
  • Craft a personalised financing strategy to maximise your LTV.
  • Guide you through the entire application process.

Ready to explore your 100% mortgage potential in France? Schedule a FREE consultation with our dedicated advisors at Worldwide Property Co.

What documentation do I need for a French Mortgage?

Here’s what you’ll need to provide with your application:

  • Your passport
  • Proof of residence
  • Proof of income
  • Bank statements and tax returns from the previous three months
  • The initial sales agreement (Compromis de Vente)
  • Life, property and/or health insurance policy documentation, as required by the lender
  • Copies of any current mortgage or rental agreements
  • A completed statement of assets form.

PROCESS OF BUYING A FRENCH PROPERTY

The 12 Steps to Buying Property in France

  1. Confirm how much you can borrow, by talking to one of our mortgage advisers.
  2. Open an account with a reputable Foreign Exchange Dealer (ask about our panel ofΒ FX Dealers).
  3. Agree the Price of the Property.
  4. Pay a deposit to the Notaire (via the FX Dealers).
  5. Sign a Preliminary Purchase Agreement.
  6. Arrange aΒ Mortgage.
  7. ArrangeΒ Life Insurance to cover the Mortgage.
  8. Open a French bank account.
  9. ArrangeΒ Building InsuranceΒ (existing property only, not off-plan).
  10. Transfer the balance of the deposit, as well as the legal fees & purchase taxes to the Notaire, in advance of completion. (via FX Dealers)
  11. Sign the Sales Agreement (Acte de Vente).
  12. Complete – Congratulations !!

Mortgage Terminology

Purchase price

This is the price of the property you are looking to acquire, excluding fees. It may include or exclude the VAT (known as TVA in France), depending on the type of property.

Mortgage Amount

This is the mortgage amount you want to apply for – or the maximum mortgage amount we can offer.

LTV


This is the Loan to Value. The maximum loan to value depends on a variety of factors.

Interest Rate


This is the rate being offered by the lending bank. Warning, the rate is locked only when the mortgage offer is printed – so there is a risk that the rate may vary.

Duration

The duration chosen for your mortgage. Most banks offer a maximum duration of 20 years.

Monthly Repayment

This is the monthly cost of your mortgage, excluding the mortgage insurance.

Insurance Premium

The amount that the mortgage insurance (which is mandatory in most cases) could cost you based on the original mortgage amount borrowed. We may be able to reduce it.

Deposit

This is the money from your own funds/savings that you need to put down in order to buy the property (not to be confused with Personal Contribution, see below), excluding fees.

Notary Fees


The French equivalent of the stamp duty – which is the same whether you are paying by cash or with a mortgage. This is payable at the signature of the deed of sale and is not something that can be added to the mortgage.

Mortgage Tax

There are two types of taxes here: privilege de preteur de denier (PPD) and hypotheque. PPD (circa 0.5%) applies to existing properties and hypotheque (circa 1.25%) to new build. For off-plan properties, the Notaire will require a PPD on the part that is already built and a hypotheque on the remainder (which makes it cheaper for you). The Notaire will confirm the final amount at the signature of the mortgage deed. This is payable at the signature of the deed of sale.

Broker Fee


We charge a fee of 1% of the loan amount in the event of a client’s purchase being successfully financed by a bank. This equates to a very small percentage of the loan amount over the life of the mortgage. Our goal is to try and secure you a 20-year fixed rate at 1.5% so that you don’t need to refinance every 3-5 years (and incur repeated fees) as one might in the UK. Depending on the bank, the complexity of the borrower’s profile and the mortgage amount, we work a total of 10 to 30 hours on each application. This is payable at the signing of the deed of sale.

Bank Fee

Each bank has a different fee structure; the banks we work with tend to offer rates that range from 0.3% to 1% of the loan amount. Financing non-resident buyers requires expertise and more time than arranging a mortgage in your home country. The process will take up to 4 months (occasionally even longer for bigger deals) so the lender charges accordingly. This is payable at the signing of the deed of sale.

Personal Contribution

This is the total money you need to pay from your savings and it is payable at the signing of the deed of sale. For off-plan properties with stage payments, you must pay your deposit first before the mortgage kicks in.

Collateral Required

When dealing with a private bank, you can decide together with your adviser how to invest your portfolio. Anything with an ISIN number can be considered as long as it’s easily understood by the banker – but it needs to make sense from a risk perspective since the funds are collateralised against the loan. Please note that French Private Finance cannot provide investment advice.

Total Interest Paid

This is the amount of the interest that will be paid over the course of the mortgage if you do not make overpayments.

Total Insurance Paid

This is the amount of the mortgage insurance that will be paid over the course of the mortgage if you do not make overpayments.

APRC

This is the actual percentage rate you will pay on your purchase and includes the mortgage rate, mortgage insurance rate, bank fees, broker fees and mortgage registration tax.

Total Cost of the Loan (fees + interest + insurance)

This is the total cost of your loan paid over the course of the mortgage if you do not make overpayments.

Total Deposit (including fees and collateral)

This is the total amount that needs to be paid upfront to the bank.

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