Dreaming of a farmhouse in the Dordogne, a pied-à-terre in Paris, or a villa on the Riviera? Brits are still buying in France in large numbers — but the process has evolved significantly.

Post-Brexit regulations, tighter lender criteria, and currency volatility mean financing a French property in 2025 requires planning, paperwork, and specialist advice.

That said, it’s absolutely doable — and often more affordable than people realise.

Can Brits still get a mortgage in France?

Yes — UK citizens can still apply for French mortgages in 2025. But the process is stricter than it was pre-2020, and local banks treat non-resident borrowers as higher risk.

Key changes since Brexit:

• Maximum LTV is typically 70–80% for non-residents
• You may need a larger deposit upfront (especially for second homes)
• French banks assess your global debt-to-income ratio
• Documentation must often be translated into French
• Mortgage approvals take longer — allow 6–10 weeks

Despite the admin, many UK buyers secure finance successfully — especially with the help of a specialist broker.

How much can you borrow in France?

Most non-resident buyers can borrow up to 70%–80% LTV, depending on:

• Income level and stability
• Type of property (main home, holiday let, investment)
• Location and resale value
• Currency of your earnings (GBP vs EUR)

⚖️ The key metric: Debt-to-income ratio (DTI)

French lenders prefer your total global monthly debt repayments to stay below 33% of gross income — a conservative approach compared to UK lending models.

Required documents for a French mortgage

Prepare for a thorough review — and ensure your documents are neatly presented. You’ll usually need:

🧾 Passport and proof of residency
📄 Bank statements (3–6 months)
📊 Payslips or income proof
📃 Tax returns (UK SA302s, if self-employed)
💼 Details of any existing debts or mortgages
📑 Preliminary sales agreement (compromis de vente)

Many lenders will require translations by a certified translator. Using a broker can ease this process.

Currency risks and euro-denominated borrowing

If your income is in GBP and your mortgage is in EUR, you're exposed to currency risk.

💷📉 A falling pound = your mortgage becomes more expensive
💷📈 A rising pound = potential savings

Mitigation options:

• Open a EUR account to manage FX conversion
• Use forward contracts or FX hedging tools
• Consider borrowing in GBP against UK assets, then purchasing in cash

At Willow, we advise on the right strategy depending on your income profile and risk tolerance.

Understanding the role of the notaire

The French property system is notaire-led — they handle both legal and financial aspects of the transaction.

Key facts:

• Notaire is a government-appointed legal officer
• They represent the transaction, not the buyer or seller
• Their duties include due diligence, legal title, land registry, and collecting taxes
• Expect fees of around 7–8% of the purchase price, including stamp duty

While not mandatory, many Brits also appoint their own independent English-speaking solicitor to ensure clarity and protect interests.

Can you use UK equity to fund your French purchase?

Yes — and in many cases, this is the smartest move.

Using equity from a UK property allows:

• Greater negotiating power (cash purchase = faster close)
• Avoiding EUR mortgage admin
• Better speed and simplicity
• Reducing FX exposure at the financing stage

You can then refinance in France post-purchase if needed.

Willow frequently structures UK-based equity release or bridging for clients buying in France.

Is buy-to-let an option in France?

Yes — but it’s not as tax-efficient as in the UK unless you go through French tax registration for furnished lettings (LMNP or LMP status).

You’ll need:

• Local property management (if non-resident)
• Declaration of rental income in France (and UK if resident)
• To understand double tax treaties and how income is reported

Buy-to-let in France can work — especially in high-demand tourist areas — but it must be carefully structured.

Work with a broker who understands both sides

Buying abroad can be stressful if you try to do it alone. The right broker should speak both languages — literally and financially.

At Willow Private Finance, we:

✅ Work with trusted French lenders and private banks
✅ Help UK buyers structure deposits, FX, and release equity
✅ Advise on tax, residency, and legal pitfalls
✅ Connect you with reliable notaires and local experts
✅ Take care of all documentation and submissions

Whether you’re retiring, investing, or relocating, we’ll get the finance right from the start.

📞 Want Help Navigating Today’s Market?

Book a free strategy call with one of our mortgage specialists.

We’ll help you find the smartest way forward—whatever rates do next.