What is the level of mortgage rates in December 2025? How does this affect your borrowing capacity for a purchase or an investment? Mortgage rates in December 2025 have a strong influence on buying, selling and refinancing decisions.
We present the December 2025 mortgage rates, including the lowest and average rates by loan duration.
We also analyze changes over 6 months, 1 year and 3 years, and explain the economic factors behind them.
Contact your local Capifrance real estate advisor for personalized analysis and full support.
Mortgage Rates for a Loan in December 2025: Lowest and Average Rates by Loan Duration in France
In December 2025, the mortgage market displays attractive levels for many borrower profiles. However, the rate grids show a stabilization after fluctuations throughout 2025.
Average Rates in December 2025
| Loan term | Average mortgage rate |
|---|---|
| 10 years | 3.04% |
| 15 years | 3.11% |
| 20 years | 3.23% |
| 25 years | 3.34% |
In December 2025, average rates observed are approximately 3.04% over 10 years and 3.11% over 15 years. For longer durations, averages are around 3.23% for 20 years and 3.34% for 25 years.
Best Rates in December 2025
| Loan term | Best mortgage rate |
|---|---|
| 10 years | 2.70% |
| 15 years | 2.85% |
| 20 years | 2.99% |
| 25 years | 3.10% |
The best rates offered to very strong profiles are currently around 2.70% for 10 years and 2.85% for 15 years.
For long-term loans, the most competitive offers fall to around 2.99% for 20 years and 3.10% for 25 years.
Usury Rate
The usury rate applicable between October 1 and December 31, 2025, acts as the legal cap.
It is set at around 3.17% for loans under 10 years.
For loans between 10 and 20 years, the usury rate is close to 3.53%. For loans of 20 years or more, it is around 3.82%.
In practice, the rate influences the monthly payment and borrowing capacity. A longer duration reduces the monthly payment but increases the total cost of the loan.
Examples (excluding insurance):
Borrowing €250,000 over 20 years at 3.23% results in a monthly payment of around €1,415.
Borrowing €300,000 over 25 years at 3.34% gives a monthly payment of around €1,476.
Always compare the nominal rate and the APR (TAEG). The latter includes insurance and fees, showing the real cost of the loan.
Mortgage Rates in France for 10-Year and 15-Year Loans in December 2025
Short-term rates remain competitive in December 2025.
Average rates are around 3.04% for 10 years and 3.11% for 15 years.
The best offers for excellent profiles may fall below 3% for both 10- and 15-year loans.
A 10-year loan involves high monthly payments but significantly reduces the total interest cost.
For example, a €150,000 loan over 10 years at 3.04% has a monthly payment of around €1,451 (excluding insurance).
Over 15 years, the monthly payment decreases while keeping the total cost under control.
For €200,000 over 15 years at 3.11%, the monthly payment is about €1,392 (excluding insurance).
Banks favor profiles with stable employment and low debt ratios. Improving your application helps secure the best rate.
Mortgage Rates for 20-Year and 25-Year Loans in December 2025
Longer durations remain the majority choice for accessing homeownership.
In December 2025, average rates are roughly 3.23% for 20 years and 3.34% for 25 years.
These durations increase borrowing capacity by reducing monthly payments but lead to a higher total credit cost.
Examples:
€250,000 over 20 years at 3.23% = approx. €1,414 per month (excluding insurance).
The same amount over 25 years at 3.34% = approx. €1,230 per month (excluding insurance).
A fixed rate remains attractive to secure the household budget and avoid fluctuations when markets are uncertain.
Consult a Capifrance advisor to compare mixed solutions; the network can also connect you with expert brokers.
Changes in the Best Mortgage Rates in France Over 6 Months, 1 Year, and 3 Years
| 2025 Period | 10 years | 15 years | 20 years | 25 years |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 3.00% | 3.25% | 3.31% | 3.40% |
| February | 2.99% | 3.16% | 3.24% | 3.32% |
| March | 2.80% | 2.90% | 2.89% | 2.99% |
| April | 2.65% | 2.75% | 2.89% | 2.99% |
| May | 2.79% | 2.85% | 2.90% | 3.00% |
| June | 2.74% | 2.85% | 2.95% | 3.05% |
| July | 2.90% | 2.85% | 2.95% | 3.05% |
| August | 2.73% | 2.81% | 2.92% | 3.05% |
| September | 2.79% | 2.85% | 2.94% | 3.06% |
| October | 2.69% | 2.86% | 2.99% | 3.05% |
| November | 2.69% | 2.86% | 2.99% | 3.05% |
| December | 2.70% | 2.85% | 2.99% | 3.10% |
Over the last six months, rates have shown a stabilization trend.
From June to December 2025, variations were minor.
Over one year, the trend has been favorable: after peaks in 2024, 2025 saw a gradual decline in average rates.
Over three years, the trend remains mixed: from very low rates to a rising phase, followed by recent consolidation.
Cafpi barometers show an improvement in real estate purchasing power for some borrowers, although market volatility remains a factor.
Monitoring economic indicators and ECB decisions is essential. A rapid change in the 10-year OAT can impact bank rate grids.
Analysis of Mortgage Rate Trends in France
Rate evolution depends on macroeconomic and regulatory factors.
The ECB, key interest rates and inflation play major roles.
When the ECB raises rates to fight inflation, refinancing costs rise and banks adjust their mortgage offers upward.
The 10-year OAT impacts bank financing costs. An increase often leads to higher mortgage rates.
National measures, such as changes in the usury rate, also affect credit distribution.
Geopolitical uncertainties further shape market risk appetite.
For borrowers, improving one’s profile remains the best strategy: a larger down payment and stable employment help secure the best rate.
Mortgage Rate Forecasts for 2026: Trends and Possible Scenarios in France
Three plausible scenarios help assess risks and opportunities, based on inflation, ECB policy and OAT trends.
Each scenario outlines the likely impact on borrowing capacity and monthly payments, helping you plan.
Optimistic Scenario
Assumption: inflation stabilizes. ECB adopts a more accommodative policy.
OAT yields ease. Rates could fall by 0.10 to 0.40 points compared to December 2025.
Consequences: short-term rates could drop below 3%. Long-term rates may settle around 3.00–3.20%.
Advice: if your project is flexible, wait a few months. Ask your broker or Capifrance advisor to monitor rate grids.
Realistic/Prudent Scenario
Assumption: inflation slows but remains above the target. ECB adjusts cautiously.
Rates remain stable or increase slightly by 0 to +0.30 points.
Expected levels: approx. 3.11% for 10–15 years, 3.40% for 20 years, 3.60% for 25 years.
Advice: completing a well-prepared project remains relevant. Build a strong application and negotiate via a broker or advisor.
Pessimistic Scenario
Assumption: persistently high inflation or strong monetary tightening.
Geopolitical tensions continue.
Rates may rise by +0.40 to +0.80 points throughout 2026.
Consequences: borrowing capacity decreases significantly. Long-term credit costs increase sharply.
Advice: if your project is urgent, secure a fixed rate now. Otherwise, increase your down payment or reduce the borrowing amount.
Advice for Real Estate Buyers in December 2025
December 2025 remains a key month with attractive rates but ongoing caution.
Start by calculating your borrowing capacity: income, debt ratio and down payment.
A higher down payment helps obtain a better rate and reduces total costs.
To negotiate the best rate:
prepare a strong application,
ensure stable income,
keep debts low,
maintain savings.
Compare offers and contact a broker. Your Capifrance advisor can also assist.
Don’t forget borrower insurance: delegating it can reduce the APR and final monthly payment.
Optimizing Your Borrower Profile and Negotiating the Best Rate
To secure an attractive rate:
improve your down payment,
stabilize income,
clean up your bank accounts.
A broker knows bank grids and often negotiates better terms, especially for nonstandard profiles.
Refinancing can also be beneficial if rates drop significantly. Always calculate net savings after costs.
Calculating Borrowing Capacity and Monthly Payments for a Successful 2026 Project
Use a simulator or request a calculation from your advisor. Always include the APR.
Example:
With €4,500 in net monthly income, a 3.23% rate over 20 years allows you to borrow around €296,000 depending on the debt ratio used.
Also consider additional costs: notary fees, diagnostics, potential works and bank fees.
Advice for Sellers: Is December 2025 the Right Time to Sell a Property in France?
The market shows signs of stabilization. Buyers are resuming projects, especially for spacious homes.
Selling now can help reach motivated buyers taking advantage of attractive rates.
A Capifrance advisor offers real value: precise valuation, document preparation and targeted strategy.
If you plan to buy afterwards, the advisor can connect you with partner brokers to optimize financing.
Presenting the property well, offering complete diagnostics and setting a realistic price remain essential.
Why Start Your Selling Project in December 2025?
Transaction volumes are recovering. Houses in particular attract renewed buyer interest.
Selling in December may benefit from strong demand for well-positioned properties.
A Capifrance advisor will tailor the strategy to your market and neighborhood.
The Importance of Personalized Support from a Capifrance Advisor
Support includes a professional valuation and a marketing plan.
Your advisor guides you until signing.
The Capifrance network facilitates connections with brokers, simplifying both selling and buying.
Personalized support minimizes risks and increases your chances of selling quickly and at the best price.
Why Choose a Local Capifrance Advisor for Your Sale or Purchase?
Capifrance advisors are locally based and understand the specifics of each market.
They offer personalized guidance, strategic support and broker connections.
Choosing Capifrance gives access to professional tools and a national network of qualified buyers.
Contact your local advisor for a valuation or guidance on your real estate project.
Conclusion
Mortgage rates in December 2025 remain attractive, with averages around:
3.04% (10 years),
3.11% (15 years),
3.23% (20 years),
3.34% (25 years).
Best rates depend on borrower profiles. Down payment and job stability remain key.
Recent trends show stabilization after fluctuations.
Track the 10-year OAT and ECB policy to anticipate changes.
Three scenarios for 2026 guide strategy: moderate decline, stability or rate increases.
Buyers: calculate borrowing capacity, optimize your profile and consult a broker if needed.
Sellers: local support and targeted strategy are essential for achieving the best price.
For a secure and successful real estate project, contact your local Capifrance advisor.
FAQ
(Full translation of all FAQ questions and answers follows below)
What are the current mortgage rates in France?
In December 2025, rates average around 3.04% (10 years), 3.11% (15 years), 3.23% (20 years) and 3.34% (25 years) (source: Cafpi).
When will mortgage rates decrease?
A drop will depend on inflation trends and ECB decisions. Forecasts remain cautious.
What are mortgage rates in 2025?
In 2025, rates generally ranged from 2.70% to 3.65% depending on duration and profile.
What rate for a home loan?
Rates depend on duration, profile and the bank. December 2025 benchmarks:
3.04% (10 years), 3.11% (15 years), 3.23% (20 years), 3.34% (25 years).
What were mortgage rates in 2024?
In 2024, average long-term rates often exceeded 3.70%.
Why are mortgage rates rising?
Mainly due to rising key rates, high inflation and increased OAT yields.
How to calculate mortgage rates?
The APR combines the nominal rate, fees and insurance. Use a simulator or request a calculation.
How to negotiate or renegotiate your mortgage rate?
Prepare a strong application, compare offers and use a broker to put banks in competition.
How to keep your mortgage rate?
The rate is guaranteed upon signing the offer for a limited period. Finalize quickly to secure it.
How to obtain a low mortgage rate?
Improve your profile, increase the down payment, negotiate and consider delegating insurance to lower the APR.
What to expect for mortgage rates in 2026?
Several outcomes are possible: stability, slight increase or slight decrease depending on financial markets, ECB policy and OAT trends.
What are the average mortgage rates in December 2025?
Around 3.04% (10 years), 3.11% (15 years), 3.23% (20 years) and 3.34% (25 years).
How does the ECB impact mortgage rates?
ECB decisions influence key interest rates, shaping bank lending conditions. When ECB rates fall, mortgage rates may decline.
Why do OAT yields influence mortgage rates?
OAT yields guide bank financing costs. Lower OAT yields mean cheaper financing for banks, allowing lower mortgage rates.
What down payment is needed for a real estate project?
Usually 10–20% of the purchase price excluding fees. A higher down payment improves the APR and total cost.
Why is the fixed rate preferred in 2025?
Fixed rates provide predictability and protection against future increases during uncertain economic conditions.
Are current financing conditions favorable?
Late 2025 financing conditions are considered favorable for strong borrower profiles.
What are the risks of rising interest rates?
Reduced borrowing capacity, higher total costs and increased strain for long-duration loans.
How might 2026 interest rate trends evolve?
Scenarios include stability, slight increase or slight decline depending on financial markets, ECB policy and OAT movements.
Author :
Frédéric Rémy – Director of Commercial Performance
A real estate professional for several years within the Capifrance network, I would like to share with you some essential advice to help you succeed in your real estate project with the support of our advisors.
