
Securing a mortgage as a couple is often key to turning your homeownership dreams into reality. Your professional status plays a pivotal role in loan approval. Banks prioritize stability to minimize default risks. So, what happens when one partner has a permanent CDI contract and the other a fixed-term CDD? Here's what you need to know, based on proven lending practices.
A mortgage is a substantial loan—typically over €75,000—with repayment terms spanning 10 to 25 years, and up to 30 in some cases. Given the high stakes, lenders scrutinize borrowers' job security. Those with stable employment, like civil servants or CDI holders, are ideal candidates because they pose the lowest risk of income loss and default.
If one partner has a precarious CDD role, approval becomes tougher without strong safeguards. That's where a CDI partner's stable income can bridge the gap, enabling the couple to qualify for financing together.
Yes, it's entirely possible. While a CDD is viewed as less secure, pairing it with a CDI balances the profile. However, banks typically disregard CDD income when calculating borrowing capacity, relying solely on the CDI salary to determine the loan amount.
The CDD holder's situation still factors into the overall assessment and joint liability. If the CDI income alone doesn't cover your project, consider waiting for the CDD to convert to CDI or scale back the loan size to fit a single income. With our experience advising thousands of borrowers, we've seen many couples succeed this way.
Job stability isn't everything—lenders evaluate your full financial picture. A solid down payment, ideally 10% or more from savings, reassures banks by covering part of the project upfront. Project fiscal responsibility too: zero overdrafts and consistent savings demonstrate reliability.
Clean up your finances before applying, as each bank weighs factors differently. Compare offers online to find the best rates and terms tailored to your situation. As trusted advisors in real estate financing, we recommend shopping around to maximize your approval odds and secure favorable conditions.