A loan against property is a major financial decision and requires careful consideration. You should consider various factors to check if you are eligible for a loan against property. You can also estimate your EMIs or monthly instalments by using a loan against property calculator.
Here are some things to remember before taking a loan against property:
Property Valuation
The loan amount you can get usually depends on the market value of the property being offered as collateral. A valuer appointed by the lender will assess the property’s market value.
The valuer will provide a valuation report to the lender, including details such as the property’s location, size, condition, amenities, and market value. Ensure the property is valued correctly as the loan amount may be eligible for a loan against property tax benefits under Sec 24B and Sec 37(1) of the Income Tax Act.
Interest Rates
Loan against property interest rates are generally lower than Personal Loan rates but higher than home loan rates. The interest rates can vary depending on several factors, such as the loan amount, loan tenure, borrower’s credit score, property value, and the lender’s policies.
Generally, loan against property interest rates can range from 8% to 14% per annum. Check with your lender for the interest rates and other terms and conditions. You can even use a loan against property calculator to find your EMIs for different interest rates.
Loan Tenure
The loan tenure for a loan against property can vary according to the lender and the borrower’s profile. Generally, the tenure for such loans can be up to 10 years or more. The tenure for a loan against property affects the monthly EMI amount. A longer tenure may result in a lower EMI. But it also means that the borrower will pay more interest over the loan’s tenure.
Repayment Options
Check with the lender about repayment options such as prepayment, part-payment, and foreclosure. You can make EMI-based repayment. Here the borrower pays a fixed EMI every month until the loan is fully repaid. The EMI amount is calculated based on the loan amount, interest rate, and tenure.
Hidden Charges
Carefully review the loan agreement and ask questions about any fees or charges you don’t understand. Apart from the processing fees, look out for hidden charges, such as legal fees, appraisal fees, property insurance premiums, and prepayment penalties. These charges can increase the overall cost of the loan.
Risks Involved
- The primary risk of taking a loan against property is the possibility of losing the property if you default on the loan payments.
- The lender can legally seize the property and sell it to recover their money if you fail to repay the loan.
- Also, the amount you can borrow is limited to the market value of your property. If the lender undervalued the property, you may not get the desired loan amount.
- The property’s value may fluctuate due to changes in the real estate market, which can impact the loan against the property.
In summary
A loan against property can provide you with substantial funds for various financial needs. It can also provide certain loan against property tax benefits. But it is essential to consider all factors before making a decision. Carefully evaluate your financial situation, assess the risks involved in taking a loan against property, and have a clear repayment plan ready.
