There is mounting evidence that even South Africa is not immune to the current credit crisis that is affecting the entire globe. It should be mentioned first that home prices are continually dropping. Statistics that were releases by bond originator ooba state that the home prices have fallen 6.6 percent overall compared to last October. Broken down into simple terms, it basically means that a house that is sold last year would have brought R803,908, would only bring in R751,118 in October of this year.

The second indication of the poor property market is that potential homeowners are finding it increasingly difficult to get financing for their properties. Banks are being cautious in light of the credit crisis, the National Credit Act and deteriorating economic outlook. Though the rate of home loan declines were down slightly, 1.4 percent, it doesn’t really dent last month’s rate of 51 percent.

Another reason for banks to tighten their lending is the rising number of homeowners who are late on their installments. In the third quarter of this year alone, the number of loans more than two months behind rose 21.5%.

What is a potential homeowner to do in this market? It is important to note that decline rates vary from one bank to another, so take the time to try applying with other banks before you give up completely.

Home loan applicants must be able to prove that you can make your installment payments and that you have not been late or defaulted on any other payments for at least two years before making your home loan application. Another must, a sound credit rating. It is no longer enough just to have a steady paycheck.

Potential lenders want their patrons to be stable borrowers, with a solid history of debt payment. If you have this quality, it will be extremely helpful in your pursuit of a home loan.

If your past is not the greatest, it is beneficial to be honest. If you had problems in your credit history lenders appreciate when a borrow states the truth instead of lying. Also, if you open a savings fund in order to gain a home deposit fund, you are showing signs of serious financial obligation. Yet, dig into details because the average deposit requirements stands at 10 percent, but varies in different banks.

The goal that you are looking to achieve is to make your monthly installment less than 30% of your monthly income. You will not even be looked at by a bank if your installments are more than that.

When thought about all in one, the property market today is one filled with great amounts of frustration. In one corner you have sellers that are having a difficult time finding someone to buy their home, and may be forced to reduce their prices, which works out quite well for the buyer. Although it is getting increasingly harder for buyers to secure financing.

If you are able to handle the payments and have a steady, sufficient source of income, you should exhaust every option when it comes to getting a home loan.

Tom Martens is the content coordinator for South Arica’s leading Home-loans portal which amongst others offers origination services for ABSA homeloans

  • Share/Save/Bookmark