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Buying a second home in France was a first rate success

Five years after buying their first holiday home in the south of France, and with prices on the rise, Roger and his wife Jan decided it was time to invest in another pied-à-terre.

"While meeting my Wembley Branch mortgage advisor, who's been guiding me on the best loans and rates for some time, she mentioned an international mortgage might be a better option for me," explains Roger.

A valuable local contact

Roger's mortgage advisor put him in touch with Christiane at the Barclays Côte d'Azur International Centre. And after a chat on the phone, Roger set up a meeting for his next visit.

Christiane introduced Roger to the Euro Mortgage, as well as looking at ways to consolidate the loans on Roger's first property, so he could take advantage of the best rates.

Christiane also gave Roger some invaluable advice using her knowledge of the local property market.

Extremely valuable advice

Roger had made an offer of €255,000 on an apartment, which after researching thoroughly, Christiane felt was significantly over the odds, based on the local property market and trends in property values. On her advice, he revised his offer and eventually managed to get the property for €220,000.

"This local knowledge not only made the process of buying abroad a much simpler, less daunting prospect, but in my case, saved me a considerable amount on the purchase price, on top of the interest rate savings I'd also made. I couldn't be happier with the service I received."

Make some local contacts of your own

Roger's experience really highlights the benefit of local knowledge and expertise, both in the UK and France.

If you're thinking of buying a home in France, Spain, Italy or Portugal we'll put you in touch with local experts there, who can help you save money and guide you through the process, take the first step and get in touch with us today

See all the ways we can help you buy a home in France

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Please note

Any property used as security which may include your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

Changes in the exchange rate may increase the sterling equivalent of your debt.

Upcoming events

Portugal Evening Seminar

22nd & 23rd September 2008
Barclays Global Headquarters London

French Property News

12-14th September 2008
Olympia London

Barclays Bank PLC. Registered in England. Registered No: 1026167.

Registered Office: 1 Churchill Place, London E14 5HP. Barclays Bank PLC is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. Barclays Bank PLC adheres to the principles of the Banking Code. A copy of the Code is available on request. Mortgages secured on properties abroad are not regulated by the Financial Services Authority

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