What is a Home Loan?
A home loan, also known as a mortgage, is a financial product provided by banks and financial institutions to help individuals purchase a property. Under this arrangement, the lender provides a specific amount of money to the borrower, which is typically a percentage of the property's value. The borrower then repays the loan in regular installments over an agreed-upon period, along with the accrued interest.
Advantages of Home Loans:
- Affordable Housing: Home loans make owning a home more affordable by allowing borrowers to spread the cost over several years. This significantly reduces the financial burden that comes with a lump-sum payment.
- Flexible Repayment Options: Home loan providers offer various repayment options, such as fixed-rate, floating-rate, or hybrid schemes. Borrowers can choose the one that aligns best with their financial capabilities and risk tolerance.
- Tax Benefits: In many countries, including the United States and India, borrowers can avail tax benefits on home loan repayments. These benefits may include deductions on both principal and interest components, making it a lucrative financial investment.
- Low Down Payment: Home loans typically require a down payment, which is a percentage of the property's value. While the down payment varies, it is usually lower than the total property cost, making it more manageable for prospective buyers.
- No Need to Deplete Savings: Instead of depleting all savings to purchase a home, individuals can retain some liquidity for emergencies or other investments while availing a home loan.
