7 Essential Tips to Lower Your Home Loan Interest Rates

By Priyanka Roshan, Aug 12, 2024

Planning to buy a house but worried about high home loan interest rates? Don’t fret—there are effective strategies to lower them and make your home purchase more affordable. 

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Here are seven key tips to help you secure a better interest rate and save money on your home loan:

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1. Boost Your Credit Score

A higher credit score can unlock lower interest rates. Improve your score by reducing debts, paying bills on time, and checking your credit report for errors.

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2. Select the Optimal Loan Tenure

Choose a loan term that balances affordability with interest savings. Shorter terms typically offer lower rates, but ensure that the higher monthly payments fit your budget.

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3. Negotiate with Your Lender

Negotiate with your lender to secure a better rate. Present competing offers and highlight your strong credit profile to potentially lower your interest rate.

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4. Increase Your Down Payment

A larger down payment reduces your loan amount and can lead to a lower interest rate. Aim to put down 20% or more to demonstrate financial stability and lower the lender's risk.

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5. Choose a Floating Interest Rate

Opt for a floating or variable interest rate, which can be lower than fixed rates, especially if market rates decrease. Assess your financial situation and risk tolerance before choosing this option.

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6. Consider Transferring Your Home Loan

If you’re unhappy with your current rate, explore transferring your home loan to a lender offering better terms. Compare rates and transfer costs to determine if switching is beneficial.

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7. Make Regular Prepayments

Prepaying a portion of your loan can reduce the principal balance and potentially lower your interest rate. Regular prepayments can help you save on interest over the life of your loan.

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