How to buy an apartment on a fixed-term contract?

7/5/2025

Buying real estate is often seen as an obstacle course for people in fixed-term contract (CDD). Unlike employees in CDI, they must prove a financial stability sufficient for banks to get a home loan. But is it really mission impossible? Not at all! Thanks to good preparation, a Personal contribution solid and a optimized bank account management, it is entirely possible to Set up a fixed-term mortgage.

However, the key to success is based on several factors: anticipating banks' expectations, strengthening your financial profile and choosing the right strategies to secure your financing. In addition, some alternative solutions And specific devices make it possible today to increase the chances of success of people by CDD wanting to become owners. In this article, we explain How to buy an apartment on a fixed-term contract, what are the solutions for get a mortgage, and what levers to use to convince banks.

The difficulties of buying real estate on a fixed-term contract

Why are banks cautious about fixed-term contracts?

Banks analyze several criteria before granting a Real estate loan. Their main objective is to minimize the risks of non-repayment. One employment contract in CDI offers security for them, because it ensures a financial stability And regular earnings. Conversely, a CDD is considered to be more uncertain because it does not guarantee a continuity of income.

In addition, banks are also looking at job market trends in the applicant's sector. A fixed-term borrower in a sector in tension, such as IT or health, will be more likely to convince than a fixed-term contract in a more precarious field. However, some professions offer prospects of stability despite working on a fixed-term contract, especially in the field of civil service, where contracts renewed over several years reassure banking institutions.

The criteria that reassure banks

For get a mortgage In a fixed-term contract, you must reassure the bank by presenting a solid case:

  • A good debt ratio : less than 35% of monthly income.
  • A significant personal contribution : ideally 10 to 20% of the total amount of the property.
  • Healthy bank accounts : avoid overdrafts and prove good financial management.
  • Seniority in the same sector : if you are chaining CDD in the same field of activity, it can be perceived positively.
  • A co-borrower on a permanent contract : if you buy as a couple with a person in CDI, the chances of getting a loan increase.
  • Precautionary savings : having savings makes it possible to prove an ability to absorb financial contingencies.
  • Use a broker : real estate brokers know which banks to turn to for atypical profiles.

How to get a fixed-term mortgage?

Call on a real estate broker

One real estate broker is an expert who negotiates the best loan terms for you. He knows the banks that accept fixed-term contracts and can put together a convincing case by highlighting your financial assets.

The broker can also advise you on alternative solutions, such as assisted loans, or guarantees that you can provide to your bank to reassure you of your solvency.

Present a good loan file

To optimize your chances, your loan file must include:

  • Your payslips for the last 12 months.
  • Your bank statements for the last 6 months.
  • A letter explaining the sustainability of your sector of activity.
  • Any proof of financial stability (savings, additional income, etc.).
  • Proof of rigorous management of your budget.
  • Letters of recommendation from former employers or customers if you are a freelancer.

Focus on a significant personal contribution

Plus your Personal contribution is higher, the more likely the bank will be to give you a loan. Ideally, a contribution of at least 10 to 20% of the price of the property is recommended.

A significant personal contribution can also make it possible to negotiate a more attractive interest rate and reduce the total cost of credit.

Opt for a loan with security

Some banks agree to grant a mortgage in CDD if the borrower is guaranteed by a solvent third party (parent, spouse on a permanent contract, etc.).

The deposit can be made via a relative or by a guarantee organization such as Crédit Logement or certain professional mutual insurance companies.

Alternatives to traditional mortgages

Si Borrow on a fixed-term contract proves to be too complicated due to banking requirements, there are several alternative solutions allowing access to the property without necessarily having a CDI contract. These options can be particularly interesting for people in a precarious professional situation or with an atypical profile.

The zero interest loan (PTZ)

The PTZ is a State aid intended for first-time buyers subject to income conditions. This interest-free loan allows you to finance up to 40% of the price of a new home. Its amount is determined according to the geographic area And of the Household composition.

However, it is important to note that the PTZ cannot finance the entirety of a real estate purchase. It must be supplemented by another traditional home loan or a personal contribution. In addition, access to the PTZ depends on household income : a household exceeding a certain ceiling will not be able to benefit from it. This device is particularly advantageous for young workers wishing to buy their first main residence with a low debt ratio.

It is recommended to Simulate your eligibility with a bank or via the official website of public services before starting the procedures.

Buying via an SCI (Société Civile Immobilière)

La SCI (Real Estate Civil Society) is a relevant solution for people who want Buying a property with several people while facilitating the management of real estate assets. By creating an SCI with loved ones, it is possible to Divide monthly payments between several partners, which reduces the individual financial burden.

One of the main advantages of SCI is management flexibility that it offers. Each partner holds shares in proportion to their investment, which allows for a better distribution of risks. In addition, in case of resale of the property, the transmission of shares is simplified.

However, creating an SCI involves some administrative and fiscal constraints :

  • It is necessary draw up statutes defining the operating rules.
  • One general meeting of associates must be organized every year.
  • The SCI is subject to corporate tax or income tax depending on the tax regime chosen.

This option is ideal for investors who want to buy as a family or with friends while enjoying a better legal protection.

Buying with a CDD is complicated, but possible

Renting before buying (rental-accession)

La lease-ownership (PLSA) is a device allowing tenants to progressively acquire real estate after a rental period. This solution, governed by law Law of 12 July 1984, is particularly interesting for people who do not have an adequate supply immediately.

The principle is simple:

  1. The tenant occupies the unit as tenant and tenant and pour a monthly rent.
  2. Part of the rent is saved and will come reduce the amount to be financed when he decides to buy the property definitively.
  3. At the end of the agreed period (generally 2 to 5 years), the tenant has the choice whether or not to buy the home.

This mechanism has several pros :

  • It allows test the property before buying, thus avoiding committing to housing that would not correspond to expectations.
  • It offers progressive savings That turns into Personal contribution, thus making it easier to obtain a mortgage.
  • Some real estate programs allow you to benefit from a VAT exemption on the price of the property, which reduces its overall cost.

However, it is crucial to Carefully check the terms of the contract and to ensure that the price of housing is fixed as soon as the initial contract is signed. This device is particularly suitable for households with modest incomes wishing to become owners without mobilizing a large amount of capital immediately.

Conclusion and call to action

Buying a fixed-term apartment is a challenge, but not an impossible mission. By preparing a solid backrest, by maximizing your Personal contribution and by proving your financial stability, you can convince banks to finance your real estate project.

To maximize your chances of success, Call on a MeCaza real estate hunter, which will assist you in evaluating the feasibility of your purchase and will help you find the best opportunities on the market.

❓ FAQ

Can you buy real estate without a deposit while on a fixed-term contract?

Yes, but it's rare. Banks consider fixed-term contracts to be less stable and often require a Personal contribution by at least 10%. However, some institutions may grant a 110% ready, also covering the notary fees, if the file is solid (regular income, good banking management, co-borrower).

Which banks are more likely to accept fixed-term borrowers?

Les online banks and some specialized brokers are sometimes more flexible with borrowers with fixed-term contracts. Actors like Pretto, Ymanci or Empruntis can offer solutions adapted to so-called “atypical” profiles.

Is it easier to buy a fixed-term contract when you are in the public service?

Yes. A CDD in the civil service is often perceived as more reliable than a fixed-term contract in the private sector. Some banks even equate this status to a permanent contract, especially for agents with several contract renewals or a long-term mission history.

How to maximize your chances of borrowing on a fixed-term contract?

To reassure the bank, it is recommended to:

  • Present an irreproachable banking record (no overdrafts, regular savings),
  • Have a CDI co-borrower if possible,
  • Show a business continuity (renewed fixed-term contracts or missions linked without interruption),
  • Use a broker to guide you to the right banking partners.

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