French Mortgage
Finance your French Alps property with the right mortgage — in English.
Domosno works with carefully selected English-speaking French mortgage brokers who specialise in helping international buyers finance ski property in France. They understand non-resident applications, VEFA new-build schedules, LMNP rental structures and the specific documentation French lenders expect.
As a non-resident, you can often borrow up to 80-85% of the purchase price, subject to profile and lender criteria. French lenders assess borrowing capacity using a strict debt-to-income ratio, so the calculator below is a useful first planning tool before speaking to a broker.
From approx. 3.70% to 4.30% · up to 80% LTV
From approx. 3.70% to 4.50% · up to 75% LTV
Typically 20-25%, depending on profile and lender criteria
Rates are indicative only. Your actual rate depends on your financial profile, loan size, property, term and chosen lender.
French mortgage rates can compare favourably with other markets, but the file needs to be prepared properly. A broker can assess eligibility before you make a formal application.
French Mortgage Calculator
How much can you borrow?
French banks use a straightforward debt-to-income test to assess borrowing capacity. This first section explains the method. The calculator starts just below.
French Mortgage Affordability Calculator
Enter your figures below. Use the + / − buttons or type directly into each box. Results update instantly — no need to press calculate.
Max available for new mortgage payment each month
Estimated from your rate, term and monthly capacity
Loan amount plus your deposit contribution
Indicative guidance only — not a bank approval
This calculator provides indicative figures for planning purposes only and does not constitute a mortgage offer or financial advice. Actual borrowing capacity depends on individual lender criteria, your full financial profile, minimum loan sizes, property value and market conditions.
French Mortgage
Finance your Alpine property with a French mortgage.
We can introduce you to specialist brokers who help international buyers secure French mortgages for ski property in the Alps. Ask us for a personalised assessment and we will point you in the right direction.
Your Questions Answered
French Mortgage FAQs
Everything international buyers ask us about financing a ski property in France — answered plainly and honestly.
Yes. French banks regularly lend to non-residents, including buyers from the UK, Ireland, Scandinavia, Australia, the US, Singapore and the Gulf states. What matters most is your financial profile, income, existing debts, assets and requested loan-to-value.
Non-residents are assessed under slightly stricter criteria than French residents, usually requiring a larger deposit and more complete documentation, but a well-prepared application can be very achievable.
Most non-resident buyers should plan for a deposit of around 20-25% of the purchase price. Strong EU profiles may sometimes access higher loan-to-value lending, while non-EU buyers are often assessed more conservatively.
You should also allow for purchase costs, including notaire fees. For new-build VEFA property these are typically lower than resale, often around 2-3% rather than 7-8%.
Indicative fixed rates for non-resident buyers are often in the 3.40% to 4.50% range, depending on nationality, loan term, loan-to-value and personal profile.
French mortgages are commonly fixed-rate for the full term, which can be helpful for planning. A broker will confirm a current illustration including mandatory insurance.
French lenders generally apply a strict debt-to-income approach. Your total monthly credit commitments, including the new mortgage and insurance, are usually expected to remain below 35% of gross monthly household income.
Rental income can sometimes be factored into the assessment, particularly for furnished rental structures, but treatment varies by lender.
Typical documents include passport, proof of address, income evidence, tax returns, recent bank statements, details of existing loans and mortgages, and the signed reservation contract or purchase agreement.
Self-employed buyers usually need a fuller file, often including accounts for several years. A broker can provide a personalised checklist before an application is made.
A well-prepared file commonly takes around 2 to 3 months from application to formal mortgage offer. Once issued, a French mortgage offer has a mandatory cooling-off period before it can be accepted.
For new-build purchases, timing can be more flexible because funds are drawn down in stages as construction progresses.
Yes, in some cases. Rental income from a furnished ski property, especially where there is a clear rental structure, may help support borrowing capacity.
The exact treatment varies. Some lenders may consider a percentage of projected or actual net rental income; others require a proven track record.
Most lenders require mortgage repayments to be taken from a French bank account. Opening one is normally straightforward and can be arranged during the mortgage process.
Some lenders may also ask for additional savings or reserves to be held in France, especially for non-EU buyers.
Yes. French mortgages usually require life and disability insurance, with the lender named as beneficiary. The cost depends on age, health and loan amount.
A proper mortgage illustration should show the total cost including insurance, not only the headline interest rate.
UK buyers can still obtain French mortgages, but they are generally treated as non-EU borrowers. This can mean a larger deposit requirement and a slightly higher rate than some EU buyers.
The right broker matters because lender appetite for UK files varies. A good broker will know which banks are most receptive to your profile.