Knowledge and Resources
How a Property’s EPC (DPE) Rating Impacts Your French Mortgage
1. What Is a DPE and When Is It Required? The Diagnostic de Performance Énergétique (DPE), equivalent to the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), measures a property’s energy efficiency and greenhouse gas emissions. Each home is rated on a scale from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). When it’s required: A valid DPE is compulsory…
Opening a Bank Account in France When Buying Property: What You Need to Know
Purchasing property in France is an exciting step, whether it’s a holiday home, retirement retreat, or investment. One practical consideration that often arises is banking: do you need a French current account (compte courant) when buying property? If so, when should it be opened, with which bank, and at what cost? This guide answers those…
Why Private Banks Offer an Edge in Lending for High-Net-Worth Individuals
For High Net Worth individuals (HNW’s) or international investors with complex income streams, traditional high street banks can fall short in delivering personalised financial solutions. When conventional debt-to-income models or strict documentation hurdles block opportunity, the private banking model steps in — offering flexibility, confidentiality, and creative structuring. This article explores how private banks craft bespoke lending…
The HCSF Regulations Explained: How Debt-to-Income Limits Impact Your French Mortgage
French mortgage approvals have become more rule-bound in recent years — largely due to stricter regulation by the Haut Conseil de Stabilité Financière (HCSF), France’s financial stability authority. For non-residents earning abroad, understanding how the 35% debt-to-income (DTI) rule, term limits, and income assessment work is essential. This article explains the practical implications of HCSF rules, especially…
Disputes in French Property Transactions: How to Resolve Them
Buying property in France can be a smooth process — but when it isn’t, legal recourse is critical. Disputes may arise due to hidden defects, contract breaches, or issues of misrepresentation. This guide outlines the most common legal disputes, what protections buyers enjoy, and how to resolve conflicts if they do occur. 1. Common Types…
French Property Insurance: What’s Included, Is It Mandatory, and Do You Need to Adjust It When Letting?
Property insurance in France is a critical component of risk management for owners — whether you’re purchasing a second home, holiday residence, or rental investment. While it is often considered optional for detached homes (maisons individuelles), the reality is more nuanced — especially when the property is rented out or located in a co-ownership structure….
Blog
French Property Prices Forecast for 2024: France’s Housing Market Review and Outlook
The French real estate market is experiencing a slowdown, and the situation is not expected to improve in 2024. This is attributed to a challenging economic period marked by inflation, resulting in a decline in the purchasing power of the French population. Additionally, the rise in bank interest rates is making access to credit more…
French Mortgage lending in a post BREXIT world
It’s early 2021, we are all impacted by lockdowns and strict travel restrictions. Against all odds, Non-Resident buyers are still active in the French property market. Here is a brief overview of mortgage lending in a post BREXIT world : Overall, few changes as a result of BREXIT but some new pitfalls to be…
New Special Expatriate Income Tax Regime for those relocating to France
If you have plans to relocate to France, you may be eligible for very advantageous tax arrangements, subject to certain conditions. The expatriate tax regime applies to individuals who were not residents of France for tax purposes during the five calendar years prior to their taking up their duties in a company based in France.