Home Loan for Under-Construction Property: A Comprehensive Guide

Being a first-time homeowner can both be exhilarating and intimidating, especially when the property is still under construction. Taking the time to understand what goes into a home loan for under-construction property is crucial. Home loans for under-construction properties come with specific requirements and conditions. It is important to be aware of these requirements to make an informed decision. Additionally, it is important to shop around and compare different lenders to get the best deal. This blog aims to unravel the complexities of such loans, ensuring you are well-equipped to make informed decisions on your path to owning your dream home.

Table of Contents

Under-Construction Home Loans
The Disbursement Process
Practical Tips for Potential Borrowers
Financial Implications and Tax Benefits

Understanding Under-Construction Home Loans

At the outset, it’s essential to comprehend what a home loan for under-construction property entails. Unlike standard home loans issued for ready-to-move-in properties, these loans are specifically tailored for properties still under construction. They stand out due to their unique disbursement process, where the loan amount is released in stages, aligned with the construction progress. This phased disbursement impacts the EMI (Equated Monthly Installment) calculations and payments, making it a critical factor for potential borrowers to consider.

The Disbursement Process: A Step-by-Step Walkthrough

The home loan disbursement process for under-construction properties is a systematic one. The disbursed amount is often aligned with the construction stages of the property. As the construction progresses, the builder requests funds, which, upon verification by the lender, are released. This process ensures that the loan amount is utilized efficiently and in sync with the construction timeline. It’s a safeguard mechanism that protects the interests of both the borrower and the lender.

Loan Approval and Agreement: First things first, your loan needs to be approved. Once you’ve selected a lender and they’ve vetted your financial credentials (like credit score, income, etc.), you’ll receive a sanction letter. This letter is akin to a green signal, saying you’re eligible for the loan. Next, you sign a loan agreement, which is essentially the rulebook for your home loan journey.
Linking with Construction Stages: The uniqueness of an under-construction home loan lies in its tie-up with the property’s construction stages. The lender won’t hand over the entire loan amount in one go. Instead, it’s released in parts or installments, matching the construction milestones.
Request for Disbursement: As the construction progresses, the builder or developer will request funds to continue the work. This is where you step in. Based on the builder’s demand, you need to submit a disbursement request to your lender. Think of it as giving your lender a heads-up that it’s time to release the next installment.
Verification and Inspection: Before the deposition of money, the lender will conduct a verification process. They might send experts to inspect the construction site, ensuring the progress aligns with the demands for money. It’s a bit like a quality check, ensuring everything is on track.
Disbursement as per Construction Progress: Once the lender is satisfied with the construction progress, they release the payment. This amount either goes to the builder or is credited to your loan account, depending on the arrangement.
Repayment Begins: Here’s an interesting twist – your repayment doesn’t necessarily start after the full loan amount is disbursed. Lenders often offer the choice to start paying EMIs (Equated Monthly Instalments) or pre-EMIs right from the first disbursement. The difference? EMI covers both the principal and interest, while pre-EMI covers only the interest on the disbursed amount.
Final Disbursement and Loan Closure: The final disbursement happens when the property is ready, and it’s time for handover. Once the entire loan amount is disbursed, your repayment enters the full-fledged EMI phase, if it hasn’t already.

Suggested read: Home Construction Loans in India

Practical Tips for Potential Borrowers

Under-construction home loans require a strategic approach. When dealing with builders, negotiation is key. The ability to negotiate the property price can significantly impact the total loan amount and, subsequently, the interest payments.

Research Thoroughly: Start by researching various lenders, their interest rates, terms, and conditions. Compare different home loan products and choose the one that best suits your financial situation and plans. Home construction loan documents required, such as income and identity verification, must be provided. It is also important to understand the total cost of the loan, including any fees or charges. Make sure to get everything in writing.
Understand the Fine Print: Read all the loan documents carefully. Pay special attention to terms related to interest rates (fixed vs. floating), loan tenure, EMI options, prepayment charges, and other fees. It’s crucial to understand all the obligations and rights you have as a borrower.
Negotiate with Builders: Don’t hesitate to negotiate with the builder or developer. Even a small reduction in the property price can significantly lower your loan amount and, consequently, the interest you pay over time. Remember, every penny saved is a penny earned.
Check for Pre-approved Loans: Some builders have tie-ups with banks for pre-approved construction mortgages. These loans often come with easier approval processes and sometimes even at lower interest rates. However, always scrutinize these offers and compare them with other available options.
Stay Informed about Construction Progress: Regularly check on the construction progress of your property. Staying updated helps you ensure that the disbursement of the loan aligns with the actual construction stages, preventing any mismatch or delay in payments.

Suggested read: Documents Required for Home Construction Loan

Financial Implications and Tax Benefits

The financial implications of an under-construction home loan extend beyond just interest and principal repayments. Tax benefits are a significant aspect, with borrowers being able to claim deductions on the interest paid during the construction period under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act. However, it’s important to note that these benefits kick in only once the construction is completed, and the deductions on the interest paid during the construction period can be claimed in five equal installments.

Consider the example of Mr. Sharma, who opts for an under-construction home loan to build his dream home. He negotiates the property price with the builder, reducing the overall loan requirement. As construction progresses, the loan is disbursed in stages, with Mr. Sharma paying pre-EMI interest on the disbursed amount. Upon completion, the loan transitions into a standard mortgage, with Mr. Sharma now paying regular EMIs. He also benefits from tax deductions post-completion, easing his financial burden.

FAQs About Home Loans for Under-Construction Property

Can I get a loan on an under-construction property?

Yes, you can obtain a loan for an under-construction property. These loans are designed specifically for properties that are in the process of being built. The loan disbursement in such cases is usually linked to the construction stages of the property.

Can we claim home loan benefit for under-construction property?

You can claim tax benefits on a home loan for an under-construction property. However, you can claim these benefits only after the construction is completed. The interest paid during the construction period can be claimed as a deduction in five equal installments starting from the year in which construction is completed.

Can we start full EMI on an under-construction property?

Yes, you can opt to start paying full EMIs on an under-construction property. This decision depends on your financial situation and the terms offered by your lender. Some borrowers choose to pay only the interest (pre-EMI) on the disbursed loan amount until the construction is completed, while others may start paying full EMIs immediately.

How much is the downpayment for under-construction property?

The downpayment for an under-construction property typically ranges between 10% to 30% of the property’s value, depending on the lender’s policy and your loan eligibility. It’s important to clarify this with your lender as it can vary.

What is the pre-construction period for an interest housing loan?

The pre-construction period for a housing loan refers to the period from the date of borrowing the loan until the construction of the property starts or the end of the financial year immediately preceding the year in which the construction commences, whichever is earlier. Interest paid during this period can be claimed as a tax deduction in five equal annual installments, starting from the year in which the construction is completed.

Is it worth buying under-construction property?

Buying an under-construction property can be advantageous due to potentially lower prices compared to ready-to-move-in properties, and the ability to customize or choose preferred units. However, it also comes with risks like construction delays. It’s important to assess the builder’s credibility, the project’s legal clearances, and your financial stability before making a decision.

How much loan can I get for construction?

The amount of loan you can get for construction depends on various factors including your income, repayment capacity, the property’s value, and the lender’s policies. Typically, lenders finance up to 75% to 90% of the construction cost. It’s best to consult with lenders to get an accurate idea based on your specific circumstances.

Published on 29th January 2024