Yes, it is possible to release equity from a property in France, but the pathway is not as straightforward or widely available as it might be in other jurisdictions. Unlike the UK or U.S., where equity release is a well-established financial product, in France the concept exists within a narrower regulatory and institutional framework. At Bluesky, we regularly advise high-net-worth clients on how to navigate these complexities and leverage their French assets efficiently.

Equity Release in France: It Does Exist

While not common, equity release options are available in the French market. These typically take the form of a secured loan or refinancing arrangement rather than the standard “equity release” products familiar in other countries. French lenders may allow you to borrow against your property’s value, particularly when the asset is in a prime location and the borrower’s financial profile is strong.

The most common approach is a second mortgage or secured refinance, where the property is used as collateral. This enables the owner to extract capital from the property while retaining ownership. It can be done either after the initial purchase is complete or as part of a restructuring of an existing loan.

Why Equity Release is Not Widely Offered

Despite its availability, equity release is not a mainstream proposition in France. There are several reasons for this:

• Regulatory caution: French financial institutions are governed by conservative lending rules. They are generally reluctant to offer loans that are not directly tied to a purchase or that do not include regular amortisation.

• Limited risk appetite: Lenders view secured loans that are not associated with a property transaction as higher risk, particularly for non-residents or older borrowers without local fiscal ties.

• Debt servicing concerns: Banks must ensure that the borrower can reliably service the debt. Even with substantial equity, income remains a key factor — and many equity release applicants struggle to meet these requirements under French underwriting standards.

Who Can Successfully Release Equity?

While access is limited, certain client profiles are far more likely to be successful. In our experience, the strongest candidates include:

• Fiscal residents in France: Being tax resident simplifies due diligence, enhances transparency around income, and opens the door to more flexible lending structures. Lenders are more willing to entertain equity release applications when they are dealing with a resident borrower.

• Owners of high-value properties (€1 million and above): Properties in this category offer better security for lenders and are generally more marketable. This makes lenders more open to releasing funds secured on the asset.

• Clients with assets under management: For non-resident borrowers in particular, some private banks will agree to an equity release if assets are placed under management with them. This mitigates the lender’s risk and often leads to better loan terms.

Key Requirements and Considerations

If you are considering releasing equity from your French property, be prepared to meet the following conditions:

• A formal property valuation: The lender will require a professional valuation to confirm the current market value of the asset.

• Evidence of income: Regardless of the available equity, you will need to demonstrate a sustainable income stream to meet the monthly repayments.

• Conservative loan-to-value ratios: French lenders will typically not lend above 50–60% of the property’s current value for equity release purposes, particularly in non-resident scenarios.

• Clear purpose for the funds: The intended use of the released equity – whether for investment, portfolio diversification, family gifting, or liquidity — must be disclosed and may influence lender appetite.

• Strong documentation: You will need to provide detailed financial documents, including tax returns, income statements, and proof of ownership. For non-residents, translated and certified documentation may be required.

Bluesky Finance’s Verdict

Yes, you can release equity from a French property,  but success is conditional. The French market does not routinely offer equity release products, especially not in the flexible, client-driven form known elsewhere. However, for high-value properties and well-prepared clients, it remains a viable route to unlock capital.

At Bluesky, we specialise in structuring equity release transactions for clients who meet the right criteria, typically owners of properties worth €1 million or more, those who are fiscally resident in France, or those willing to work with private banks under an assets-under-management model. Our role is to assess your position, guide you through the lender landscape, and execute the transaction discreetly and efficiently.

If you’re considering equity release, we recommend a full profile review to establish feasibility – we can support you in designing the most appropriate strategy tailored to your asset, income and residency situation.