I’ve been reading your website for a few years, ever since we bought our house in Charente Maritime 4 years ago. Very good reading and a useful resource, especially as we only have a holiday home so we don’t pick up so much knowledge by living there permanently ourselves!

We have a mortgage with Caisse d’Epargne which generally works well. However, interest rates have gone up since we began and instead of increasing payments they just extend the term, and they do this without asking. This is not all bad, especially with the current decline in Sterling.

My question is, are you aware of what opportunity there is for re-mortgaging and do you think it is worth it? Also, if it is done what are the legal costs involved?

My second question relates to a ski studio that I am looking at buying in Briancon on a leaseback scheme. Do you have any advice for me in finding a mortgage broker/lender for this. Erna Low are pushing their broker so we will speak to them first. Your leaseback FAQ’s have been very useful so far so thanks!

All the best and good luck with your new ventures AND your health, more importantly.

Regards.

Steve