Property
France — Property: Mortgage Availability
French banks must follow the HCSF's binding rules on mortgage lending, in force since 1 January 2022: a maximum debt-service ratio of 35% and a maximum loan term of 25 years, with a margin that lets banks depart from the criteria on up to 20% of quarterly new loan production. At least 80% of that margin is reserved for buyers of a main residence and at least 30% for first-time buyers. The HCSF adjusted the margin in June 2023 and made technical changes by a decision of 18 December 2023. The sources do not say whether or how the rules apply differently to non-resident borrowers, so ask the bank about its conditions for foreign buyers.
VerifiedGovernment / official sourceHigh Council for Financial Stability (HCSF) — measure on mortgage lendingLast reviewed: 2026-10-23
Key facts
- The HCSF's rules, binding since 1 January 2022, set a maximum debt-service ratio of 35% and a maximum loan term of 25 years.
- Banks may depart from the criteria on up to 20% of quarterly new loan production; at least 80% of that margin is reserved for main residences and at least 30% for first-time buyers.
- The margin was adjusted in June 2023 and technical changes were made on 18 December 2023.
- The sources do not say how the rules apply to non-resident borrowers; ask the bank.
Common mistakes
- Assuming the 35% ratio is waived for foreign buyers — the HCSF rules apply to banks' lending generally.