The South African government has done considerably well in providing low-cost houses for its citizens. However, according to a United Nations report, it is said that about 12 million people are still in dire need of housing.
Owning a home is not just a luxury, but a human necessity. And so, whether you are a first-time home buyer or looking to continue with your existing mortgage in South Africa, finding the right mortgage bank to do business with can be very stressful. This is because there are a large number of mortgage banks in the country.
So, we’re here to relieve you of that stress by exploring the best mortgage banks in South Africa. In building this list, we considered several factors, such as interest rates, fees, repayment terms, and what sets them apart. We’ll also discuss the factors to consider when choosing a mortgage bank and the mortgage application process.
This article deals with some of the best mortgage banks in South Africa and while you may consider them.
Why opt for a mortgage?
While the rich can afford to buy a house at a glance, many middle and lower-class earners cannot. Depending on your annual income, you may opt for a mortgage as the most feasible option to acquire your home. With a mortgage, you can pay for a home instalmentally for about 15 to 30 years. Mortgage loans are suitable for anyone desiring to have a home but are not able to afford the full financial implications at once.
What to consider when choosing a mortgage bank
Choosing the mortgage bank to do business with might not be an easy task, but when you take into consideration several factors, the job gets easy. Some of the things to take into consideration before choosing a mortgage bank include the following:
- Interest Rates: Make sure you look for competitive interest rates that fit your budget. Always consider the type of interest rate, whether it’s fixed or variable, and the term of the loan. Make sure it all aligns with what you have in mind.
- Repayment Terms: Different mortgage banks have different repayment terms. So make sure that you choose a bank with flexible repayment terms that suit your financial situation. Consider the loan term, repayment frequency, and any penalties for early repayment.
- Fees: Every mortgage bank charges fees for different occasions. Ensure that you consider all the mortgage-related fees, including origination fees, valuation fees, and attorney fees.
- Customer Service: You should choose a bank with excellent customer service, including online support, phone support, and branch support. This will help you ask questions and relay your challenges to the bank.
- Loan Options: When choosing a mortgage bank to transact with, consider the types of loans they offer, such as fixed-rate, variable-rate, and combination loans.
- Credit Score Requirements: Almost, if not every mortgage bank has credit score requirements. You must check the credit score requirements for the bank and ensure you meet the criteria.
- Reputation: No bank has the same face value. Some have gained the trust of the people, and others are still growing. If you are going to engage the services of a mortgage bank, you must research the bank’s reputation, ask questions, and read reviews from previous customers.
- Branch and ATM Network: Consider the bank’s branch and ATM network, especially if you prefer face-to-face interactions.
Best mortgage banks in South Africa
1. Absa Bank
Absa Bank offers competitive interest rates and flexible repayment terms in terms of interest rates and terms of payback. They are renowned for providing outstanding customer service and having an easy mortgage application process. A variety of other services are also provided by them, such as bond origination and house insurance. Below are some of their unique features
Interest Rate: 7.5 percent – 13.5 percent
Repayment Terms: Up to thirty years
Fees: 1,500 – 2,500 rand
Loan Options: Fixed-rate, variable-rate, and combination loans
Credit Score Requirements: 600+
Reputation: Absa Bank is known all over South Africa as a bank with a reputation for excellent customer service and a wide range of mortgage options.
2. First National Bank (FNB)
Both fixed-rate and variable-rate mortgages are among the mortgage alternatives that FNB provides. It has excellent customer service and an easy-to-use online application process. It provides several other services as well, such as bond origination and house insurance. Below are some of their unique features
Interest Rate: 7.25 percent – 13.2 percent
Repayment Terms: Up to thirty years
Fees: 1,000 – 2,000 rand
Loan Options: Fixed-rate, variable-rate, and combination loans
Credit Score Requirements: 620+
Reputation: FNB has a reputation for innovative mortgage products and excellent customer service.
3. Standard Bank
Standard Bank provides flexible repayment arrangements along with reasonable interest rates. A variety of other services are also provided by them, such as bond origination and house insurance. They provide outstanding customer service and have a simple mortgage application process. Below are some of their unique features
Interest Rate: 7.5percent- 13.5percent
Repayment Terms: Up to thirty years
Fees: 1,500 – 2,500 rand
Loan Options: Fixed-rate, variable-rate, and combination loans
Credit Score Requirements: 600+
Reputation: Standard Bank has a reputation for competitive interest rates and flexible repayment terms.
4. Nedbank
Nedbank provides both fixed-rate and variable-rate mortgage options, much like other banks. The web application is simple to use and provides good customer support. It provides several other services as well, such as bond origination and house insurance. Below are some of their unique features
Interest Rate: 7.25percent- 13.25percent
Repayment Terms: Up to thirty years
Fees: 1,000 – 2,000 rand
Loan Options: Fixed-rate, variable-rate, and combination loans
Credit Score Requirements: 620+
Reputation: Nedbank has a reputation for excellent customer service and a range of mortgage options.
5. Investec
Competitive interest rates and adaptable payback terms are provided by Investec. It provides several other services as well, such as bond origination and house insurance. The mortgage application procedure is simple to use and provides top-notch customer support. Below are some of their unique features
Interest Rate: 7.5percent- 13.5percent
Repayment Terms: Up to thirty years
Fees: 1,500 – 2,500 rand
Loan Options: Fixed-rate, variable-rate, and combination loans
Credit Score Requirements: 650+
Reputation: Investec has a reputation for competitive interest rates and flexible repayment terms.
Mortgage Application Process
The mortgage application process typically involves the following steps:
1. Pre-approval: This is the first phase of the process. You have to get pre-approved for a mortgage to determine how much you can borrow.
2. Application: After being pre-approved, you’ll have to submit your mortgage application, including required documents such as ID, proof of income, and proof of address.
3. Assessment: The bank will assess your creditworthiness. They will have to check if you meet their criteria, which include your Bank Statement, annual salary, your credit card score and property value.
4. Approval: After assessing your creditworthiness and property, you will receive approval for your mortgage and review the terms and conditions.
5. Registration: You can now register the bond and transfer the property into your name.
Conclusion
Choosing the right mortgage bank in South Africa is never easy. However, by considering the factors we have outlined in this article and exploring the options listed above, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect mortgage for your needs. Remember always to read the terms and conditions carefully and seek professional advice if needed.
