HOUSING LOAN FOR EXPATRIATES

HOUSING LOAN FOR EXPATRIATES

Choosing the best housing loan package can save you thousands of dollars every year if not more. It is only prudent to give serious thought on the housing loan package to go for.

Overview

Housing loan packages in Singapore can be broadly defined into two categories: fixed rates or floating (variable) rates.

Fixed rates packages in Singapore are normally offered for up to 3 years. There are a few lenders that extend up to 5 years fixed rates or even 10 years. This is, however, quite different from many Western countries where rates can be fixed throughout the loan tenure.

Floating rates in Singapore can also be classified into published rates or board rates. Published rates are basically rates that are published daily, example being the Singapore Interbank Offered Rate (SIBOR) or Singapore Swap Offer Rate (SOR), whereas board rates are determined by the individual bank or financial institution. Most lenders peg their board rates to certain financial benchmarks such as the SIBOR but the exact constituents are often unclear and variations in board rates tend to be opaque.

Generally, there are no restrictions on expatriates taking up housing loans in Singapore but do take note of the following.

Loan to Value

The maximum loan to value (LTV) in Singapore is currently 80% of the purchase price or valuation, whichever is lower.

Income Proof

Your latest income tax assessment or a letter of appointment from your local employer is required to get approval for a housing loan application. Do note that tax assessments from some countries may not be accepted by the local mortgage lenders. For a complete list of documents required for a housing loan application, please refer to housing loan basic info .

Landed Property

Expatriates need to take note that approval from Singapore Land Authority is required before they can purchase restricted properties such as vacant land or landed properties such as bungalows, semi-detached and terrace houses.

In-principle Approval

As housing loan applications are relatively more complicated for expatriates, you may want to apply for an in-principle approval before proceeding with a purchase. A creditable and professional housing loan advisor helps save you time and money so it makes sense to engage one to assist with your loan approval.