1. Early repayment

Upon sale, the notary pays the remaining capital to the bank. If the sale price exceeds this amount, the excess goes to you; otherwise, you must make up the difference. If the loan contract provides for it, early repayment compensation (IRA) may apply (legally capped at 6 months of interest or 3% of the outstanding capital). These penalties may be waived in certain cases (professional transfer, death, loss of job, etc.), depending on the terms of the contract.

2. Transfer of the property loan to a new property

If your contract provides for a transferability clause and the bank accepts it, you can “transport” your credit (rate, duration, guarantees) to a new home. The new property must generally be worth at least the remaining capital, and the transaction must be accepted by the bank. This option can be interesting if your initial credit is advantageous.

3. Use a bridging loan to buy before selling

If you want to buy a new property before selling the old one, a bridging loan can temporarily finance the purchase. The bank advances between 60% and 80% of the estimated value of your old home. After the sale, the funds are used to repay this bridging loan. But be careful: this credit is often at a higher rate, for a short period (often 12 to 24 months), and you will need to sell quickly.

4. Think about guarantees, insurance, deposits, mortgages

When the loan is settled or transferred, borrower insurance ends. A mortgage on the property sold must be lifted (a formality carried out by the notary, sometimes with costs). Likewise, a deposit does not generally transfer to a new loan. If transfer or bridging loan is considered, the bank will have to accept guarantees on the new property.