Learn more about Repayment Mortgages
Repayment Mortgages are generally more expensive as you have to pay the interest on the €100,000 and also pay off a portion of the capital. These mortgages are often called ‘capital and interest’ mortgages. The payment for €100,000 now rises to say, €7200 per year, or almost double. Repayment mortgages are best used for main residences or for investments, like leasebacks, where the aim is to pay the mortgage off and enjoy the income. Repayment mortgages (prêt ammortissables) are the most common mortgage in France and offer the most protection.
Learn more about Interest only Mortgages
With an interest only mortgage (prêt infiné), as the name suggests you only pay the interest on the amount you borrow. If you borrow €100,000 at a 4% interest rate you will have to pay €4000 per year. After 20 years you will still owe the €100,000 and have to sell the property or find funds from elsewhere to pay back the money you have borrowed . Hopefully the property you bought will have appreciated in the meantime so you will have made a profit whilst keeping your costs down.
Interest only mortgages are the mortgage of choice for investors looking to make a return by selling the property for more than the purchase price.
