The service for intermediaries works with more than 120 national and regional French banks to offer finance for advisers’ clients looking to purchase or remortgage a French property.
In addition, it will give clients advice on aspects such as opening a French bank account and deal with estate agents and notaries on their behalf.
Conti revealed that France is an increasingly popular destination for Britons looking to buy abroad, with enquiries about French mortgages having tripled in the last two years to account for 45% of the quotes it issues.
Deals through Conti France start from 1.88% up to 70% LTV, with each case negotiated individually with the appropriate lender.
Conti highlighted that 100% LTV deals also remain available in France, given that its property market has been very stable due to its cautious approach to risk.
Clare Nessling, operations director at Conti, said: “Unlike other overseas brokers in the UK, we’re not tied to a limited number of banks, but can instead search the whole of the French market for the most favourable deals. This launch represents a seismic change in the way French mortgages are delivered to the UK market.”
Kathleen MacKinnon-Helm, manager, international dept, at CAFPI, said: “Conti is an established and reputable UK-based force in the world of overseas mortgages, and we’re delighted that this joint venture will strengthen that position in terms of the service and deals it can offer intermediaries who have clients seeking French property finance.
“It makes perfect sense for us to join forces to ensure the best possible borrowing terms for them, as well as excellent commission.”
