Home Loans

Home Loan Basics for First-Time Buyers in Thane & Mumbai

GBy Gharounda Realty··2 min read

For most first-time buyers, the home loan is the part that feels most intimidating — and it doesn’t need to be. Here is the plain-English version of everything you should understand before you sign.

How much can you borrow?

Banks usually fund up to 80–90% of a property’s value, with the rest coming from you as down payment. How much they lend also depends on your income, existing EMIs and credit score. A healthy guide is to keep your total EMIs within about 40–50% of your monthly income.

What interest rate to expect

Home-loan rates move with the market, but most banks currently offer somewhere in the region of 8.3% to 9.5% per annum for salaried first-time buyers with a good credit profile. Even a small difference in rate changes your EMI meaningfully — try a few rates on the EMI calculator on any property page to feel the impact.

Down payment and extra costs

Beyond the down payment, budget for stamp duty, registration, GST (on under-construction property) and a buffer for interiors. Counting these in early prevents nasty surprises later.

Documents banks ask for

Typical paperwork

  • PAN and Aadhaar (identity and address)
  • Last 3–6 months’ salary slips and bank statements
  • Latest Form 16 / income-tax returns
  • Property documents and the builder’s agreement

How to strengthen your eligibility

  • Keep your credit score healthy — pay cards and EMIs on time.
  • Close or reduce small existing loans before applying.
  • Consider a joint loan with a co-applicant to raise eligibility (and possibly tax benefits).
  • Compare offers from more than one lender.
The cheapest rate on paper isn’t always the best loan — processing fees, flexibility and service matter too.

This is where having someone in your corner helps. As part of our advisory, we line up suitable lenders, help you compare honestly and walk your file through approval — so the loan supports your purchase instead of stalling it.

Thinking of buying in Mira Road East?

Talk to us as your advisor — honest guidance, free for the buyer, from the first question to the keys.

Frequently asked questions

What is the minimum down payment for a home loan?

Banks finance up to about 80–90% of the property value, so plan for roughly 10–20% as down payment, plus stamp duty, registration and other costs from your own funds.

What home-loan interest rate can I expect in 2026?

Rates vary by lender and profile, but most banks are currently around 8.3–9.5% per annum for salaried first-time buyers with a good credit score. Always compare a few lenders.

Does a joint home loan help?

Yes. Adding a co-applicant with income can raise your eligibility and may offer additional tax benefits. Both applicants share responsibility for repayment.

How can I improve my home-loan eligibility?

Maintain a healthy credit score, clear small existing loans, keep your EMIs within a comfortable share of income, and keep your documents in order before applying.