Monday, December 21, 2009

Housing Loan for Emigrants

By Aaron Smith

In Singapore, housing loan packages have two categories: fixed rates or floating (variable) rates.

Singapore fixed rate packages are usually offered for up to 3 years, but there are some lenders that extend up to 5 years fixed rates or even 10 years. In many Western countries, fixed rates can be made throughout the loan tenure.

On the other hand, floating rates are classified into published rates or board rates. Like Singapore Interbank Offered Rate (SIBOR) or Singapore Swap Offer Rate (SOR), published rates are normally rates that are released daily. Meanwhile, board rates are determined by the respective bank or financial institution. Many of the lenders based their board rates to a certain financial bench marks, yet the exact factors are sometimes not clear and variations in board rates turn indefinite.

In general, there are no limitations on emigrants having housing loans in Singapore but do pay attention of the following.

Loan to Value

In Singapore, the maximum loan to value (LTV) is 90% of the purchase price or valuation, whichever is smaller. Many lenders do not give maximum LTV to emigrants, thus, housing loan packages for 90% financing are restricted. Loan approval for 90% financing is also tighter than for LTV 80% and below.

Proof of Income

To have commnedation for a housing loan your latest income tax assessment or a letter of appointment from your local employer is needed. Tax assessments from some countries may not be respected by the local mortgage lenders.

Landed Property

The commendation from Singapore Land Authority is required before emigrants can purchase bounded properties such as vacant land or landed properties such as bungalows, semi-detached, and terrace houses.

In-principle Approval

Try to apply for an in-principle approval before going with a purchase, since loan applications are more intricate for emigrants. Think of hiring a honored and professional housing loan consultant. This may help you save time and money with your loan approval. - 29904

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