Lifetime mortgage: the guide
A loan repaid only at the end: the prêt viager hypothécaire raises questions. Here is what to remember.
Updated 23 October 2026
Definition
A credit secured by a mortgage on real estate, for individual owners. Capital and interest are repaid in one go, in principle on the borrower’s death or sale of the property. It falls under articles L315-1 onwards of the Consumer Code.
Interest and inheritance
Unpaid interest is added to the capital and itself earns interest: the debt grows over time. Eventually it is repaid from the estate, often by selling the property or by heirs.
Who can use it?
Property owners, depending on each lender’s conditions (age, value, location). It is often considered to supplement retirement income.
Before committing
Discuss it with relatives, study alternatives and read the offer carefully. Consult your notary.
Frequently asked questions
Can the property be sold during my lifetime?
Yes, but the debt must then be repaid from the sale price.
Who repays on my death?
The estate: by selling the property or by heirs repaying.
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