Having a home in a desirable city is a common aspiration for many individuals. To turn this dream into a reality, people work hard to meet the requirements necessary to qualify for financial assistance from major lending institutions. A home loan is a secured loan that can be obtained from a financial or lending institution at a specific interest rate, using the property as collateral. If the borrower fails to repay the loan, the lender has the right to sell the property to recover the outstanding amount. Repayments for home loans are typically made through monthly installments, which are determined by the amount borrowed, interest rate, and repayment period. Home loans are typically offered for purchasing or constructing a house/flat on a property. Most banks offer loans up to 80% of the total property cost, or as determined by the lender.

Customers typically compare various loan features offered by different banks before making a final decision. By comparing interest rates, processing fees, and repayment periods, customers can choose the best loan option based on their financial capacity. Lenders may offer home loans with reduced interest rates from time to time, so it is important for customers to understand their requirements before applying for a loan.

The home loan application process typically takes 3 to 4 weeks to be approved if all the necessary documents, such as property or income-related documents, are submitted to the bank. These documents are checked for authenticity before the loan is approved. Factors that determine eligibility for a home loan include age, annual income, residency status, credit score, and other outstanding loans.

Types of Home loan:
  • Purchase Loan: This loan is for purchasing a new residential property or an existing one.
  • Construction Loan: This loan is for the construction of a new residential property.
  • Plot Loan: This loan is for the purchase of a plot of land, which can be used for construction purposes in the future.
  • Renovation Loan: This loan is for making improvements or renovations to an existing residential property.
  • Extension Loan: This loan is for extending or expanding an existing residential property.
  • Balance Transfer Loan: This loan is for transferring an existing home loan from one bank or financial institution to another, usually to take advantage of better interest rates or loan terms.

The creditworthiness and repayment capacity of a borrower are critical factors in the approval of a home loan, with the credit score playing a significant role in determining eligibility.

Potential borrowers should compare the loan features of all banks to choose the most suitable option.

Home loan borrowers can also enjoy tax benefits under various sections, such as Section 24, 80C, and 80EE. Additionally, government schemes like Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, PMAY Gramin, and PMAY Urban can be advantageous in reducing the financial burden on customers.

To avail a home loan, several important documents are required, including:

  • A duly filled loan application form
  • Three passport size photographs
  • An identity proof such as Aadhar card or passport.
  • A residence proof such as Aadhar card or passport.
  • Bank statement/passbook for the last six months
  • Property documents
  • Salary certificate
  • Two to three years of Income Tax Returns for salaried and business professionals
  • Proof of business address for customers running a business
  • Form 16 for two years (Part A & B)