Buying a home is a significant financial decision for most people, and often, it requires taking out a home loan to finance the purchase. However, securing a home loan can be challenging, and one of the most significant hurdles is meeting the eligibility criteria set by lenders.

From income requirements to credit scores, lenders evaluate several factors before approving or denying a home loan application. In this article, we will demystify home loan eligibility criteria and provide practical tips on improving your chances of qualifying for your dream home.

What is Home Loan Eligibility?

Home loan eligibility refers to the criteria that lenders use to assess a borrower’s ability to repay a loan. The qualifying requirements include age, income, credit score, job history, current debts and obligations, and property worth.

A borrower’s loan amount relies on eligibility and the lender’s restrictions. Lenders usually finance 80% of the property’s value and require a 20% down payment.

Let’s understand this with an example:

An Rs. 40 lakh housing loan may be available to a borrower with a monthly income of Rs. 50,000 and no liabilities.

However, if the borrower has Rs. 25,000 in monthly income and liabilities, their eligibility and loan amount might be lower than Rs. 40 lahks.

In simple words, finding the best home loan requires meeting eligibility requirements and researching lenders.

Types of Home Loans

India offers a variety of house loans for varied financial demands. The most prevalent Indian house loans are:

• Fixed-Rate Home Loan: This loan has a fixed interest rate. Borrowers may plan EMIs and repayments because the interest rate is fixed.
• Adjustable-Rate House Loan: A floating-rate house loan has an interest rate that changes with market conditions. Borrowers expecting interest rates to fall might choose this loan.
• Home Construction Loan: Borrowers who wish to build a new house on their own property take out a home construction loan. Construction progress determines loan installments.
• Home Renovation Loan: Borrowers that wish to remodel or upgrade their house seek a home renovation loan. The loan can fund property improvements.
• Home Expansion Loan: Borrowers who wish to extend their home take a home expansion loan. Construction progress determines loan installments.
• Home Loan Balance Transfer: A home loan balance transfer lets borrowers switch to a lower-interest lender. This method saves borrowers on interest.
• Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY): PMAY provides affordable home loans to EWS, LIG, and MIG members.

Understanding India’s home loan options and choosing one that meets your financial needs is crucial. 

Home Loan Eligibility Criteria

Home loan qualifying requirements in India vary per lender, although most lenders evaluate the same aspects. Factors include:

• Age: Lenders prefer borrowers between 21 and 60 since they feel they have consistent income and repayment capabilities.
• Income: Lenders check borrowers’ income to guarantee repayment. Most lenders require a monthly income of Rs. 25,000.
• Credit Score: A credit score is vital to home loan eligibility. Credit scores determine a borrower’s creditworthiness and loan repayment capabilities. Loan acceptance is more likely with a high credit score and less likely with a low one.
• Employment History: Lenders favor borrowers with a solid employment or business history. Most lenders demand borrowers to have two years of work experience, either in their present employment or company.
• Existing Loans and obligations: Lenders analyze repayment capacity by reviewing a borrower’s prior loans and obligations. High-debt borrowers may be denied loans.
• Property Value: Property value is also considered a lot. The borrower pays 20% down, and the lender finances up to 80% of the property’s value.

Meeting these qualifying criteria doesn’t ensure loan acceptance, and lenders may have additional restrictions based on their internal rules and processes.

Before applying for a home loan, you should research, compare lenders, and improve your eligibility.

How to Calculate Your Home Loan Eligibility?

Calculating your home loan eligibility can be done using a home loan calculator. Calculating your home loan eligibility is an essential step in the home-buying process as it helps determine how much loan you can get from the lender.

Here are the steps to calculate your home loan eligibility:

1. Determine your net monthly income: Your net monthly income is your take-home salary after deducting taxes and other deductions.
2. Assess your fixed obligations and expenses: These include any existing loan EMIs, rent, or other fixed monthly expenses.
3. Calculate your FOIR (Fixed Obligations to Income Ratio): FOIR is the percentage of your net monthly income that goes towards fixed obligations and expenses. Lenders generally prefer FOIR to be below 50%.
4. FOIR-based eligibility: Multiply your net monthly income by FOIR to establish home loan eligibility. Your home loan eligibility is Rs. 25,000 if your net monthly income is Rs. 50,000 and your FOIR is 50%.
5. Other factors: Lenders examine age, credit score, job history, and property worth when deciding house loan eligibility.

The above computation is only an estimate, and lenders may use their own standards to assess your home loan eligibility. Before applying for a home loan, consult with the lender to get an accurate estimate of your eligibility.

Also Read: Make Informed Financial Decisions: Understanding Your Housing Loan EMI with a Calculator

Conclusion

To avoid rejection or inadequate funds, ensure you know your preferred lender’s home loan eligibility requirements before applying. In this regard, calculating your income, obligations, and spending with a home loan calculator will evaluate your loan eligibility and help you budget.