By Charlotte GAUCHON
25 March 2025
Buying a property usually involves taking out a loan. This may seem like a straightforward operation, but in reality it is governed by strict rules designed to protect the borrower. The mortgage contract is not formed instantly, but follows a precise, sequenced process. Understanding these stages is essential if you are to avoid the pitfalls and make a fully informed commitment. Since the reform of mortgage credit and your rights, borrower protection has been strengthened. Preparing the loan offer: an essential preliminary stage Even before making a formal loan offer, the lending institution is legally obliged to assess your financial situation. This preliminary phase, governed by articles L. 313-16 et seq. of the French Consumer Code, requires the banker to check that you are "likely" to be able to meet your repayment obligations. To do this, you will need to provide detailed and accurate information about...