The essential steps to
buying your first property
“I went through this journey myself, and it is thanks to a precise method that Horizons Immobilier guides you step by step.”
Defining your project is the first crucial step. At Horizons Immobilier, we always start by establishing your budget with you, taking into account your income, outgoings and deposit. For example, with a €30,000 deposit and a rate of around 3.7% over 25 years (October 2026 level), a €200,000 loan means a monthly payment of just over €1,000 excluding insurance: you then need a net income of about €3,000 a month to stay within the 35% debt ratio. We then identify your priorities: proximity to transport, schools, green spaces or potential for value growth. This preparation saves you valuable time and sets you on an efficient path from the start.
Update 2026 · updated October 2026
- The zero-interest loan (PTZ) has been extended until December 31, 2027, with higher cost ceilings for first-time buyers.
- Rates rose in fall 2026 (about 3.5 to 3.75% depending on the term): have your borrowing capacity confirmed before showings.
- Banking rules unchanged: a maximum debt ratio of 35% including insurance, over a maximum of 25 years.
- Your parents can help: family gifts of up to €100,000 per donor may be tax-exempt for the purchase of a primary residence, subject to conditions and for a limited period.
The search for your future home then takes place across several channels. Our advisors give you access to a network of exclusive listings and help you on digital platforms to spot the best opportunities. At each showing, we provide a professional assessment grid: general condition, technical surveys and estimated renovation costs. This method lets you compare each property objectively and make the right decision.
If a property suits you, you can make an offer. It can be at the asking price or negotiated depending on market conditions, any work required or how long the property has been on the market. The offer can be made in writing (recommended) or submitted verbally to your advisor. If it is accepted, you move on to the next step: signing the purchase agreement and putting together the financing application.
For financing, our team puts the best banks in competition and negotiates not only the rates but also the arrangement fees and borrower insurance. We inform you about support programs such as the zero-interest loan and anticipate the drafting of the purchase agreement by validating the necessary contingencies, including obtaining your loan and the release of any mortgages. Horizons Immobilier’s support thus ensures a secure transaction at every step.
Don’t forget: to maximize your loan, here are the key dimensions to analyze:
- Your net worth
- Your income
- Your expenses
- Your savings capacity
- Your level of debt
On the day the final deed of sale is signed, you are not alone: a Horizons Immobilier expert reviews every clause, checks the consistency of the financing plan and answers all your questions. We also come with you on signing day to make sure everything goes as smoothly as possible.
After this crucial step, we remain available to advise you on the future management of your property. With this complete and secure approach, becoming a homeowner is a smooth and reassuring journey.
About the author
Walid Fourhal Founder of Horizons Immobilier
Walid advises sellers, buyers and investors in Paris and Île-de-France, from the initial valuation through to closing at the notary’s office, in both French and English. He holds the French real estate license “Transactions sur immeubles et fonds de commerce” no. CPI 9201 2025 000 000 047, issued by the CCI Paris Île-de-France.
