Mastery

20+ years

Mortgage Experience within UAE banks

3000+ Clients

UAE nationals, Expats, and Non-residents

3+ Billion AED

of successfully facilitated mortgages

Steps of Your Mortgage Journey

1. LOANS & HOMES Consultation

Your journey to securing the perfect home finance begins with a personalized free consultation.

2. Pre Approval

We will secure your pre-approval from the bank, making your property hunt more effective.

3. Property Hunt

Once pre-approved, partner with an experienced real estate agent to help you explore properties that match your preferences.

4. Finalizing Your Mortgage

We’ll do what we do best… secure you the most favorable mortgage terms. Initiate the valuation, get your Offer Letter ready and finalize the process with the bank we selected together.

Why Choose LOANS & HOMES Over a Traditional Bank?

LOANS & HOMES

 

  • Access to Multiple Lenders We have connections with various lenders, access to 1,000+ mortgage products offering a wide range of mortgage options.
  • Expert Guidance We are industry experts. We assess your financial situation, provide personalized advice, and guide you through the entire mortgage process — especially if you’re a first-time homebuyer.
  • Time and Effort Saved We do all the legwork on your behalf, saving you time and effort in researching and contacting banks.
  • No Cost to you Our service is entirely FREE of charge to you, as we receive compensation directly from the banks.
  • Objective Advice We don’t have a vested interest in promoting one bank over another. We provide impartial advice based on your best interests.
  • Advantages of Availability We offer extended availability, including evenings and weekends, providing flexibility for client interactions. Ensuring regular updates and prompt responses for a smoother application experience. Live Application Tracking Portal for added convenience.

Bank Directly

 

  • Limited Options Banks offer their own mortgage products, which heavily limits your choices.
  • Self-Guided Handling the mortgage process on your own consists of figuring out the required documentation, completing bank applications, navigating through banks and regulatory policies, and potentially missing out on expert advice.
  • More Time and Effort You’ll have to do your own research, contact multiple banks, compile and compare between 1,000+ mortgage products to determine the most favorable terms for you.
  • Extra Cost You may overpay or get overcharged as your mortgage terms may not be as favorable.
  • Bank’s Interests Banks prioritize their products, potentially leading to less objective advice.
  • Availability/Follow up Challenges Ever faced disappointment trying to reach the bank? It’s a common struggle as banks stick to regular hours, making it tough for busy clients. Less frequent updates mean you might need to nudge them for info, making it a bit tricky to stay in the loop on your application progress.

Our Bank Partners

Top Questions About Home Finance in the UAE

What is a mortgage pre-approval?

<span style=”font-weight: 400;”>A mortgage pre-approval is like getting a green light from a bank before you start looking for a home. It means they’ve checked your finances and decided that you’re eligible for a mortgage up to a certain amount.</span>

&nbsp;

<span style=”font-weight: 400;”>It helps you understand your budget and shows sellers that you’re a serious buyer when you’re house hunting. But remember, it’s not a guarantee of a loan; final approval depends on your chosen property and additional factors.</span>

Do I need pre-approval for a home loan or home finance in the UAE?

While it’s not an absolute requirement, pre-approval is a valuable step that provides financial clarity and confidence in the home-buying process, benefiting both you as the buyer and potential sellers.

Pre-approval is highly recommended for several reasons:

<strong>1- Budget Clarity</strong>
Pre-approval helps you understand your budget and the amount you can borrow.
It prevents you from searching for homes that are out of your financial reach.

<strong>2- Seller Confidence</strong>
Sellers often prefer dealing with buyers who have pre-approval because it demonstrates your seriousness and financial capability. This can make your offers more attractive in a competitive real estate market.

<strong>3- Faster Process</strong>
Having pre-approval in place streamlines the home-buying process.
When you find the right property, you can move quickly to secure it since much of the paperwork and financial checks are already completed.

<strong>4- Negotiation Power</strong>
With pre-approval, you can negotiate confidently, knowing that you have the financial backing to complete the purchase.

<strong>5- Interest Rate Lock</strong>
Some lenders may allow you to lock in an interest rate for a specific period with pre-approval, which can be advantageous if interest rates are expected to rise.

How long is a mortgage pre-approval valid for?

A mortgage pre-approval In the UAE is typically valid for around 30 to 60 days.

This means you have this amount of time to find a property and proceed with the mortgage application before you may need to reapply or renew the pre-approval

What should I keep in mind when applying for a mortgage or a home loan in the UAE?

<span style=”font-weight: 400;”>When applying for a home loan or home finance in the UAE, there are several key factors you should keep in mind:</span>
<ul>
<li style=”font-weight: 400;” aria-level=”1″><span style=”font-weight: 400;”>Lenders in the UAE rely on your credit history to assess your creditworthiness.</span></li>
<li style=”font-weight: 400;” aria-level=”1″><span style=”font-weight: 400;”>Down payments are usually around 15% (UAE Nationals) – 20% (Expats) of the property’s value. Having a larger down payment can sometimes lead to better loan terms.</span></li>
<li style=”font-weight: 400;” aria-level=”1″><span style=”font-weight: 400;”>Lenders want to see that you have a consistent and reliable source of income to make the mortgage payments.</span></li>
<li style=”font-weight: 400;” aria-level=”1″><span style=”font-weight: 400;”>Compare interest rates and loan terms from various lenders to find the best deal. Interest rates can vary, so shop around.</span></li>
<li style=”font-weight: 400;” aria-level=”1″><span style=”font-weight: 400;”>Choose the mortgage period that best suits your financial situation — usually 15 to 25 years. Longer terms mean lower monthly payments but higher interest costs.</span></li>
<li style=”font-weight: 400;” aria-level=”1″><span style=”font-weight: 400;”>Be prepared to provide the necessary legal documents, including proof of identity, proof of income, and financial statements.</span></li>
<li style=”font-weight: 400;” aria-level=”1″><span style=”font-weight: 400;”>Choose a mortgage broker with a track record of transparent dealings and good customer service.</span></li>
<li style=”font-weight: 400;” aria-level=”1″><span style=”font-weight: 400;”>Seek advice from mortgage brokers to ensure you make informed decisions.</span></li>
</ul>

Can a salary transfer affect my mortgage installments?

<span style=”font-weight: 400;”>The salary transfer or non-transfer arrangement can have an impact on your mortgage installments in the UAE.</span>

<span style=”font-weight: 400;”>Here’s how each option can affect your mortgage:</span>

<b>Salary Transfer Mortgage</b>

<b>Pros</b><span style=”font-weight: 400;”>:</span>
<ul>
<li style=”font-weight: 400;” aria-level=”1″><b>Lower Interest Rates</b><span style=”font-weight: 400;”>: Lenders often offer lower interest rates for salary transfer mortgages because they have more assurance that you’ll have a stable income to make your payments.</span></li>
<li style=”font-weight: 400;” aria-level=”1″><b>Higher Loan Amount</b><span style=”font-weight: 400;”>: You may qualify for a higher loan amount since the lender is more confident in your financial security.</span></li>
<li style=”font-weight: 400;” aria-level=”1″><b>Simplified Documentation</b><span style=”font-weight: 400;”>: The process may be simpler because the lender can directly verify your income.</span></li>
</ul>
&nbsp;

<b>Cons:</b>
<ul>
<li style=”font-weight: 400;” aria-level=”1″><b>Less Flexibility</b><span style=”font-weight: 400;”>: You may have less flexibility in choosing your lender since your employer’s bank might be the designated one for salary transfers.</span></li>
<li style=”font-weight: 400;” aria-level=”1″><b>Job Dependency</b><span style=”font-weight: 400;”>: If you switch jobs, you may need to transfer your salary to the new employer’s bank, which can be inconvenient.</span></li>
</ul>
&nbsp;

<b>Non-Salary Transfer Mortgage</b>

<b>Pros:</b>
<ul>
<li style=”font-weight: 400;” aria-level=”1″><b>Lender Flexibility</b><span style=”font-weight: 400;”>: You have more flexibility in choosing your lender, potentially leading to a wider range of mortgage options.</span></li>
<li style=”font-weight: 400;” aria-level=”1″><b>Job Independence</b><span style=”font-weight: 400;”>: You’re not tied to your current job in terms of your mortgage. Changing jobs won’t affect your mortgage arrangement.</span></li>
</ul>
&nbsp;

<b>Cons:</b>
<ul>
<li style=”font-weight: 400;” aria-level=”1″><b>Higher Interest Rates</b><span style=”font-weight: 400;”>: Non-salary transfer mortgages often come with slightly higher interest rates and may have stricter eligibility criteria.</span></li>
<li style=”font-weight: 400;” aria-level=”1″><b>Document Verification</b><span style=”font-weight: 400;”>: You may need to provide more extensive documentation to prove your income, which can be time-consuming.</span></li>
</ul>
&nbsp;

<b>Summary</b>

<span style=”font-weight: 400;”>Salary transfer mortgages generally offer more attractive terms, but they limit your lender choices and job flexibility.</span>

<span style=”font-weight: 400;”>A non-salary transfer mortgage gives you the freedom to choose your lender and job opportunities but might come with slightly less favorable terms.</span>

What if I lose my job or I struggle to repay my loan?

<span style=”font-weight: 400;”>If you lose your source of income or face any financial difficulties, it’s crucial to contact your lender immediately. They may offer temporary solutions like loan deferment or restructuring to help you through the tough times.</span>

<span style=”font-weight: 400;”>Communication is key to finding a workable solution and avoiding legal consequences.</span>

Is it better to repay the home loan faster?

<span style=”font-weight: 400;”>Repaying a home loan faster is generally a good thing because it reduces your overall interest costs.</span>

<span style=”font-weight: 400;”>In the UAE, most mortgages allow for early repayments, but you should check your specific loan terms for any prepayment penalties or restrictions.</span>

<hr />

<b>Do You Need More Help?</b>

<span style=”font-weight: 400;”>Please email us at <a href=”mailto:hello@loansandhomes.ae”>hello@loansandhomes.ae</a></span><span style=”font-weight: 400;”> We’re happy to answer all your questions!</span>

<hr />

Are there any bank fees i need to know about for getting a mortgage?

<span style=”font-weight: 400;”>Yes, when getting a mortgage in the UAE, you should be aware of potential bank fees, including processing fees, valuation fees, and possibly early repayment charges.</span>

<span style=”font-weight: 400;”>It’s essential to understand these fees and factor them into your budget when applying for a mortgage.</span>

What is the difference between fixed and a variable rate?

<b>Fixed Interest Rate</b>

<span style=”font-weight: 400;”>With a fixed-rate mortgage, your interest rate remains the same throughout the entire loan term. This means your monthly mortgage payments stay consistent and are predictable, making it easier to budget.</span>

&nbsp;

<b>Variable Interest Rate</b>

<span style=”font-weight: 400;”>A variable or adjustable interest rate means your interest rate can change over time. These changes are usually tied to a benchmark interest rate, such as the EIBOR (Emirates Interbank Offering Rate).</span>

<span style=”font-weight: 400;”>Your monthly payments can go up or down based on fluctuations in the benchmark rate, which can make budgeting less predictable.</span>

<span style=”font-weight: 400;”>Variable rates often start lower than fixed rates, but they carry the risk of higher payments if interest rates rise.</span>

What’s the difference between flat and reducing interest rates?

<span style=”font-weight: 400;”>In the UAE, flat interest rates and reducing interest rates are two common methods used in loans.</span>

&nbsp;

<b>Flat Interest Rate</b>

<span style=”font-weight: 400;”>With a flat interest rate, the interest you pay remains constant throughout the loan’s tenure. This means you pay the same amount of interest on the original loan amount, regardless of how much you’ve repaid.</span>

<span style=”font-weight: 400;”>Your monthly payments mainly cover the interest, and the principal (the actual loan amount) decreases slowly over time.</span>

&nbsp;

<b>Reducing Interest Rate</b>

<span style=”font-weight: 400;”>A reducing interest rate means that your interest is calculated on the remaining principal balance.</span>

<span style=”font-weight: 400;”>As you make payments, the interest portion decreases, and the principal portion increases. This results in your total payment staying the same, but the interest you pay decreases over time, allowing you to pay off the loan faster.</span>

<span style=”font-weight: 400;”>For borrowers, a reducing interest rate is generally more cost-effective because it leads to lower interest payments over the loan’s tenure.</span>

<span style=”font-weight: 400;”>Flat interest rates might appear lower initially, but they can end up costing more in the long run.</span>

Can I incorporate the property purchasing cost into a mortgage?

<span style=”font-weight: 400;”>Yes, in the UAE, it is possible to incorporate some of the property purchasing costs into your mortgage.</span>

<span style=”font-weight: 400;”>These costs may include the property transfer fees, and agent commissions.</span>

<span style=”font-weight: 400;”>However, not all costs can be rolled into the mortgage, so it’s essential to check with your lender and understand the specific terms and conditions of your mortgage agreement.</span>

Why should I choose a bank through LOANS &amp; HOMES?

<span style=”font-weight: 400;”>Choosing a bank through LOANS &amp; HOMES in the UAE is a smart choice because LOANS &amp; HOMES is a reputable mortgage consultancy that can help you find the best mortgage deals.</span>

<span style=”font-weight: 400;”>We have access to multiple banks and can provide you with a range of options, making it easier to compare and choose the one that suits your needs.</span>

<span style=”font-weight: 400;”>Additionally, we can assist you in navigating the complex mortgage process, saving you time and potentially helping you secure a more favorable mortgage rate.</span>

If I have a mortgage in the UAE, can I still leave the UAE?

<span style=”font-weight: 400;”>Yes, you can permanently leave the UAE even if you have a mortgage. However, you’ll need to continue making your mortgage payments as agreed with your lender, even if you’re no longer residing in the UAE.</span>

<span style=”font-weight: 400;”>It’s important to inform your lender about your plans and make arrangements for ongoing payments while you’re abroad.</span>

<span style=”font-weight: 400;”>Failure to meet your mortgage obligations can lead to legal and financial consequences, so it’s essential to stay in contact with your lender and fulfill your payment commitments.</span>

Do I need life insurance to get a mortgage in the UAE?

<span style=”font-weight: 400;”>In the UAE, life insurance is typically a mandatory requirement to get a mortgage.</span>

<span style=”font-weight: 400;”>However, some banks don’t require life insurance.</span>

<span style=”font-weight: 400;”>Generally, it provides peace of mind for you and your family by ensuring the mortgage is paid off if god forbid you pass away. </span>

Can i buy a house with my wife/husband?

<span style=”font-weight: 400;”>Yes, in the UAE, you can buy a property with your spouse.</span>

<span style=”font-weight: 400;”>It’s common for married couples to jointly purchase real estate, and there are legal provisions to facilitate this process.</span>

Can I take a personal loan for the down payment?

<span style=”font-weight: 400;”>In the UAE, the central bank doesn’t allow borrowers to take a personal loan for the down payment. Most banks and lenders prefer that you use your savings or a gift from a family member for the down payment.</span>

<span style=”font-weight: 400;”>However, it’s generally not recommended to use a personal loan as it increases your overall debt and affects your eligibility for a mortgage.</span>

What are the costs of purchasing a property in the UAE?

<span style=”font-weight: 400;”>When purchasing a property in the UAE, there are several costs to consider:</span>

<b>Real Estate Agent Fees </b><span style=”font-weight: 400;”>— Typically 2% of the property’s sale price.</span>

<b>Transfer Fee </b><span style=”font-weight: 400;”>— ranges between 2% – 4% of the property’s value. This fee varies depending on the emirate.</span>

<b>Mortgage Registration Fee </b><span style=”font-weight: 400;”>— If you’re taking out a mortgage, usually this is 0.25% of the loan amount. This fee varies depending on the emirate.</span>

<b>Valuation Fee </b><span style=”font-weight: 400;”>— The cost of evaluating the property’s value, often required by the bank for mortgage approval.</span>

<b>Mortgage Processing Fee </b><span style=”font-weight: 400;”>— Charged by the bank, usually around 0.5% of the loan amount.</span>

<b>Land Department / Trustee Office Fees </b><span style=”font-weight: 400;”>— These vary by emirate and cover property registration and other administrative costs. </span><b>Property Insurance </b><span style=”font-weight: 400;”>— You’ll need to insure your property, and the cost depends on the property value.</span>

What documents do I need to apply for a mortgage?

<span style=”font-weight: 400;”>When applying for a mortgage in the UAE, you typically need the following documents:</span>

<b>Valid Passport and Visa</b><span style=”font-weight: 400;”> — Your passport, and your UAE residence visa.</span>

<b>Emirates ID</b><span style=”font-weight: 400;”> — A copy of your Emirates ID card, which serves as your identification in the UAE.</span>

<b>Proof of Income</b><span style=”font-weight: 400;”> — You’ll need documents to prove your income, such as salary certificates, employment contracts, payslips, or bank statements. Self-employed individuals may need to provide business financial statements. </span><b>Identification documents of your Wife/Husband </b><span style=”font-weight: 400;”>— If you’re applying jointly, your significant other’s Passport, Visa, Emirates ID and marriage proof are required.</span>

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