Tips For Buying an Apartment on a Single Income in Kochi

Posted onOct 01, 2024

Gone are the days of large joint families and multiple earning members who would live in huge homes. Today, families are nuclear; following real estate market trends in Kochi shows us that even with only one earning member, they desire to purchase their own home. Since the  benefits of living in lifestyle apartments in Kochi are plenty, these homes are in high demand. Of course, this poses some challenges and financial difficulties, and is riskier too. However, with some smart money management, you can easily make it happen.

Check your Finances

First and foremost, you need to know your income, your monthly expenses, what you need to stash for emergencies, and then, how much disposable income you have. You should also look at your credit score to know how much loan you can avail. Your creditworthiness will decide the loan amount financial institutions are willing to give you. 

Improve Your DTI

Your debt-to-income ratio (DTI) is your monthly obligations (debt) vis-a-vis your income. This indicates how much of your income goes towards monthly payments like loans, credit card bills, rent, etc. Lenders prefer borrowers with a low DTI - under 45% usually. You can improve this figure by paying off existing loans or increasing your income.

Budget Wisely

You need to make a realistic budget where you set aside a certain sum for each type of expense and so on. It’s also important to check how much down payment you can make, as this will decide your EMIs. Tracking every expense is a good way of sticking to your budget; we often don’t realize where and how we spend money when we don’t track.

Make a High a Down Payment 

Depending on your income and outgoings, calculate the maximum down payment you can make. This will help you reduce your monthly payments substantially and help you fully own your home faster.

Explore Loan Options

A wide number of home loan products are available to those who wish to purchase homes. Each product has specific features, so you need to compare several products and check which one aligns with your existing requirements and financial situation. This is a critical step when you are a single income family. Many government schemes and houses are available, check if you qualify for any of them; these schemes usually have lower interest rates and processing fees.

Consider a Co-Buyer

If you have a trustworthy friend or colleague, you can request them to be a co-buyer. The combined finances can ease your burden, and it will also mean an improved credit score. Make sure you have an ironclad agreement that sets out obligations and exit strategies of both parties.

Set Aside Adequate Cash for Emergencies

Buying a house on a single income can become problematic if that income source somehow stops. Paying for unexpected expenses can cause you to delay or miss loan EMIs, and this can be dangerous. Build your savings through wise investments like SIPs, CD accounts, and so on.

Get Pre-Approved

Speak to various lenders in the very early stages and seek pre-approval. This helps in knowing your options and what kind of house you can afford to purchase based on your financial situation.

Conclusion

The reasons for the growth of luxury flats in Kochi is that today everyone desires to own beautiful homes with top-notch amenities and enjoy an elevated style of living. Such a home can be purchased even on a single income, with careful planning.

Varma Homes is one of the most reputed builders in Kerala with premium 2 and 3 BHK flats in the best residential areas of Kochi, including emerging areas. We can connect you to reliable lenders and you can fast-track your purchase. All our projects adhere to RERA norms and our transactions are transparent and ethical.

FAQ

What are the initial financial assessments needed when buying an apartment on a single income in Kochi?

Before considering the purchase of an apartment on a single income, it's crucial to thoroughly assess your financial status. Start by determining your total monthly income, fixed monthly expenses, and emergency savings. Additionally, understanding your credit score is vital as it influences your loan eligibility and the terms lenders are willing to offer. This initial financial review helps in gauging your readiness for such a significant investment and in planning subsequent steps effectively.

How can improving your debt-to-income ratio (DTI) benefit you when applying for a home loan on a single income?

Your debt-to-income ratio (DTI) is a key factor that lenders consider to determine your loan eligibility. A lower DTI indicates that a smaller portion of your income is dedicated to debt payments, making you a more attractive candidate for loans. You can improve your DTI by paying off existing debts or by finding ways to increase your income. Achieving a DTI of under 45% enhances your chances of securing a favorable loan with better interest rates and terms, thus making your goal of purchasing an apartment more attainable.

What are the benefits of making a high down payment when purchasing an apartment in Kochi on a single income?

Making a substantial down payment has several advantages, especially for single income buyers. It reduces the loan amount needed, which in turn lowers the monthly mortgage payments, making them more manageable against your single income. Additionally, a larger down payment can also lead to better loan terms, including lower interest rates. It's a financially prudent strategy that helps in managing long-term liabilities more comfortably and in building equity in the property faster.