Home > Money > Question
Need Expert Advice?Our Gurus Can Help

Can I build a house costing 50 lakhs by the age of 28 or 29, with a potential increase to 60-70 lakhs?

Milind

Milind Vadjikar  | Answer  |Ask -

Insurance, Stocks, MF, PF Expert - Answered on Oct 02, 2024

Milind Vadjikar is an independent MF distributor registered with Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI) and a retirement financial planning advisor registered with Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA).
He has a mechanical engineering degree from Government Engineering College, Sambhajinagar, and an MBA in international business from the Symbiosis Institute of Business Management, Pune.
With over 16 years of experience in stock investments, and over six year experience in investment guidance and support, he believes that balanced asset allocation and goal-focused disciplined investing is the key to achieving investor goals.... more
Asked by Anonymous - Oct 02, 2024Hindi
Listen
Money

I am 24 now and I have completed my masters right now. Will I be able to build a new home around a budget of atleast 50 lakhs when I turn 28 or 29? Will I be able to increase my budget even higher to 60-70 lakhs?

Ans: If you start a monthly sip for 50 K now in a pure equity fund then you expect to accumulate a corpus of around 70 L in 7 years time frame.

If you do it for 5 years you may still have corpus of around 42 L while balance could be funded through a home loan.

A modest return of 13% considered.

Happy Investing!!

You may follow us on X at @mars_invest for updates.

*Investments in mutual funds are subject to market risks. Please read all scheme related documents carefully before investing.
DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information to be as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision.
Money

You may like to see similar questions and answers below

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10071 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 08, 2024

Listen
Money
Hi I'm 29 yrs old man with salary of 60k month, I wish to built a house by 2-3yrs from now and create a wealth for my retirement by 40 yrs of age, plz help me through it how should I be able to do that?
Ans: It's fantastic that you're thinking ahead and planning for your future. Building a house and creating wealth for retirement are significant goals, and with careful planning, you can achieve them. Here's some guidance to help you along the way:

Firstly, consider starting by creating a detailed financial plan outlining your current financial situation, your goals, and a roadmap to achieve them. This will help you stay organized and focused on your objectives.

To save up for your house in 2-3 years, you'll need to start setting aside a portion of your monthly income. Calculate how much you'll need for the down payment and closing costs, and then work out how much you need to save each month to reach that goal.

Consider investing your savings in low-risk, liquid instruments like fixed deposits or short-term debt funds to ensure that your money is easily accessible when you're ready to buy your house.

For your retirement goal, starting early is key. Since you're aiming to retire by 40, you'll need to prioritize saving and investing aggressively. Maximize contributions to retirement accounts like the Employee Provident Fund (EPF) or the National Pension System (NPS) to take advantage of tax benefits and long-term growth potential.

Additionally, consider investing in a diversified portfolio of equity mutual funds or stocks to build wealth over the long term. While the stock market can be volatile, historically, it has provided higher returns compared to other asset classes over extended periods.

Regularly review and adjust your financial plan as needed to stay on track towards your goals. Remember, consistency and discipline are crucial when it comes to achieving financial success.

Keep up the great work, and don't hesitate to seek advice from a Certified Financial Planner if you need assistance in fine-tuning your financial strategy.

Best of luck on your journey to homeownership and retirement!

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10071 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Mar 10, 2025

Listen
Money
Hello...I am planning to construct a home in next 5 years. My monthly salary is only 35000. I dont have any idea how to make my dream into a success. Please give me an idea how I can save my money to make a home with a budget of 30 lakhs.
Ans: Building a home is a big financial goal. You want to construct a house worth Rs 30 lakh in 5 years. Your monthly salary is Rs 35,000. With the right savings and investment plan, you can make this dream a reality.

 

Step 1: Understanding the Total Budget Requirement
The house construction cost is Rs 30 lakh.

You will need to save or arrange this amount in 5 years.

Costs may increase due to inflation.

Having a buffer amount is important for unexpected expenses.

 

Step 2: Evaluating Your Savings Capacity
Your monthly income is Rs 35,000. The goal is to save a portion consistently.

 

First, identify your essential monthly expenses.

Reduce unnecessary spending to increase savings.

The more you save, the less you need to borrow.

 

Step 3: Creating a Dedicated Home Fund
Open a separate investment account for home savings.

Invest in growth-oriented mutual funds.

Avoid keeping all money in fixed deposits due to lower returns.

 

Step 4: Choosing the Right Investment Strategy
A 5-year investment plan should have a balance of growth and safety.

 

1. Avoid Index Funds and ETFs
Index funds cannot adjust to market risks.

Actively managed funds perform better in volatile markets.

 

2. Avoid Direct Mutual Funds
Direct funds need market tracking and knowledge.

Investing through a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) ensures proper management.

 

3. Maintain Liquidity for Construction Costs
Keep some funds in liquid investments for easy access.

Avoid locking money in long-term illiquid assets.

 

Step 5: Considering a Home Loan as an Option
If saving Rs 30 lakh is difficult, a home loan can help.

 

Banks may provide up to 80% of the home cost.

Your EMI should not exceed 40% of your income.

Higher down payment reduces loan burden.

A shorter loan tenure saves interest costs.

 

Step 6: Cutting Expenses to Boost Savings
Reduce unnecessary spending like eating out and entertainment.

Avoid impulse purchases.

Use discounts and cashback options to save more.

A simple lifestyle today helps in building your dream home sooner.

 

Step 7: Reviewing Your Plan Every Year
Track savings and investments regularly.

Adjust plans if income increases or expenses change.

Consult a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) for guidance.

 

Finally
A Rs 30 lakh home in 5 years is possible with proper planning. Focus on consistent savings, smart investments, and controlled spending. If needed, a home loan can bridge the gap. With discipline and patience, your dream home can become a reality.

 

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner

www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10071 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 07, 2025

Listen
Money
If I start my career @ 30 age earning monthly 60k at what age I can afford to buy a house in semi urban
Ans: Planning your first house purchase early shows strong financial awareness. Let’s explore this in a full, 360-degree way — keeping everything simple, realistic, and structured for Indian context.

Your Starting Point
You are 30 years old now.

You are earning Rs. 60,000 per month.

You are interested in buying a house in a semi-urban area.

We will consider affordability, down payment, EMI, lifestyle, and savings—all combined.

Step 1: Understand Realistic Budget for a Semi-Urban House
In most semi-urban towns, a decent house costs between Rs. 25L to Rs. 45L.

Let us take Rs. 35L as a middle number for this estimate.

You should ideally make a down payment of at least 20%.

That is around Rs. 7L down payment, and the rest by home loan.

Step 2: Estimate Comfortable EMI Based on Your Income
Banks allow 40% of salary as EMI. That is Rs. 24,000 per month.

You can get a loan of around Rs. 25L to Rs. 28L, depending on tenure and interest rate.

This is only possible if you have no other loans, like personal or car loan.

So, house cost around Rs. 30L to Rs. 35L is within your reach, if you plan well.

Step 3: Monthly Budget Planning Is the Key
Let’s divide your current Rs. 60,000 salary in a smart way.

Essentials (rent, food, transport): Rs. 25,000

SIP and emergency savings: Rs. 10,000

Lifestyle (mobile, clothes, outings): Rs. 5,000

Savings for house down payment: Rs. 15,000

Balance for unexpected needs: Rs. 5,000

This way, in 4 years, you can save Rs. 7L to Rs. 8L for the down payment.

Step 4: Create Emergency Reserve First
Before home purchase, keep Rs. 1.5L to Rs. 2L in bank or liquid fund.

This gives you strength if job or income changes.

Do not empty all savings for house down payment.

Your emergency fund must be separate from house funds.

Step 5: Build Down Payment Through SIP
Start monthly SIP of Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 15,000 in a conservative hybrid or balanced mutual fund.

Invest through MFD guided by a Certified Financial Planner.

Avoid direct plans or random apps. You need handholding.

In 4 years, SIP can grow your money slowly and safely.

Avoid investing in risky stocks for this purpose.

Step 6: Timing for House Purchase
Now let’s match savings with property goal.

By age 34 or 35, you can save enough for Rs. 7L to Rs. 8L down payment.

If you maintain job stability, your loan eligibility will also rise by that time.

Bank will ask for salary slips, Form-16, IT returns, and account statements.

You will also need to pay stamp duty, registration and interiors.

So add another Rs. 1.5L to Rs. 2L buffer for extra costs.

Step 7: Understand Costs After Buying House
EMI around Rs. 20,000 to Rs. 24,000 per month is manageable with Rs. 60K salary.

Avoid stretching EMI to more than 40% of salary.

After EMI starts, reduce other spending like gadgets or travel.

Remember to continue SIP for long term wealth building even after house purchase.

Home loan also gives you tax benefits under 80C and 24B.

Step 8: Factors That Can Delay or Accelerate Your Goal
If your salary increases fast, you can buy before age 34.

If you lose job or take a break, house goal may get delayed.

If you get bonus or parental support, you can advance your plan.

If you start freelancing without fixed income, banks may not give you a home loan easily.

Step 9: Other Non-Financial Factors to Consider
Buy only if you plan to stay in same city or town for 5+ years.

Don’t buy if job transfers are frequent or you may move abroad.

Buy only when you feel mentally and financially confident.

Also check legal title and local market trends before booking.

Don’t fall for high-rise dreams or peer pressure.

What You Should Avoid
Don’t take home loan before having emergency fund and job stability.

Don’t buy house just to save tax.

Don’t touch retirement savings or PPF for down payment.

Don’t skip insurance protection — buy term insurance and health cover.

Don’t expect house value to double in 5 years. Growth is slow in semi-urban.

Final Insights
If you start saving now, you can afford to buy your first house in 4 to 5 years. That means you can comfortably own a house by age 34 or 35.

But don’t rush. First, build habits of monthly SIP, emergency savings, and debt-free living.

Your income, savings discipline, and life goals must all align before you take the house step. Buy only when you are truly ready emotionally and financially.

You are on the right path by asking this now. Stay consistent and guided by a Certified Financial Planner.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10071 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 29, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - May 25, 2025
Money
Hi Sir, I'm 34 unmarried female with partial responsibility for parents (they have pension) but full responsibility for another adult forever who is 36 years old at this time due to certain medical issues. My goal is to be able to buy a house in metro like Pune/Bengaluru where current prices have skyrocketed to 1.2 cr, in the next 2-3 years. My current savings and income is 13 L in FD, 7L in PPF, and 4L in MF. Current salary is 1.5L per month where my expenses are 20k monthly rent, 10-15k in total for other expenses like food/living etc. Monthly MF investment is 35k and 12.5k for ppf and i save as and when possible for FD. At this time slightly worried if I'll be able to purchase a home at all. Also I do not have any other loans, please help.
Ans: You are doing a good job managing your income, savings, and responsibilities.

Your goal to buy a house in a metro is clear.

But we need to go step-by-step to see if it fits into your bigger financial life.

We also need to check the long-term impact of such a decision.

Let’s analyse everything in a simple, structured, and detailed way.

Let’s look at your money from a 360-degree view.

Let us begin.

Income and Expense Control

Monthly salary of Rs. 1.5 lakhs is a strong base.

Your rent is Rs. 20,000 and other expenses are Rs. 15,000 max.

Total expenses are around Rs. 35,000 per month only.

This gives you a very good surplus of Rs. 1.15 lakhs monthly.

That level of saving shows strong discipline and financial maturity.

This is very positive especially as you have responsibilities too.

Current Investments and Asset Mix

Rs. 13 lakhs in fixed deposits is a safety cushion.

Rs. 7 lakhs in PPF is useful for long-term stability.

Rs. 4 lakhs in mutual funds is a good start for wealth creation.

Monthly SIP of Rs. 35,000 is aggressive and well placed.

PPF investment of Rs. 12,500 monthly is also consistent.

You are spreading risk and ensuring short and long term goals.

However, fixed deposits will not beat inflation in the long run.

Understanding the Housing Goal

Your target home budget is Rs. 1.2 crore in a metro.

This is a huge goal considering your current savings.

With 13L FD + 7L PPF + 4L MF = Rs. 24 lakhs total now.

It is hard to buy a home of Rs. 1.2 crore fully from this.

You may need to take a home loan of Rs. 80 lakhs or more.

Loan EMI on this amount will be around Rs. 65,000 to Rs. 70,000 monthly.

This can affect your MF SIP and other savings.

You also need to pay 10% to 20% down payment upfront.

That is around Rs. 24 lakhs minimum, which is what you already have.

But if you pay it all, there will be no emergency fund left.

Home Loan and EMI Risk Assessment

Taking such a large loan will bring financial pressure.

Your current surplus will drop quickly with EMI payments.

You may have to stop or reduce your SIP and PPF.

That will impact your long-term financial independence.

You are also responsible for one adult dependent lifelong.

So you need a strong safety net for medical and lifestyle costs.

A home loan will reduce your flexibility for that.

Your job is in the private sector, which can have income uncertainty.

Why Owning Property May Not Be Best Now

Buying a house looks attractive, but comes with hidden costs.

Stamp duty, registration, maintenance, repairs, interiors, property tax, etc.

These can total up to 10%-12% of home value over time.

Buying locks up your capital and reduces liquidity.

Rent is only Rs. 20,000 now, which is manageable.

You also have freedom to move for job opportunities.

Home ownership can tie you down, especially early in life.

Better to delay this until other goals are secure.

Investment Strategy Review

Mutual funds help you beat inflation and grow wealth.

Continue with your Rs. 35,000 SIP as long as possible.

Don’t reduce SIP to save for property down payment now.

PPF will build your tax-free corpus, so continue with Rs. 12,500 monthly.

Your fixed deposits can be slowly reduced.

Shift them into short duration mutual funds for better returns.

But keep Rs. 3 to 5 lakhs aside as emergency fund always.

Don’t go fully into equity without having a buffer.

Real Estate as Investment? No.

Property as investment has low liquidity.

Difficult to sell quickly if needed.

High cost of buying and selling.

Price appreciation not guaranteed.

Better to build wealth using mutual funds with Certified Financial Planner.

Action Plan for Next 2 to 3 Years

Delay home buying decision for now.

Focus on building Rs. 40-50 lakhs liquid net worth.

Keep SIP + PPF going without stopping.

Shift part of FD to balanced or hybrid mutual funds.

Review SIP portfolio yearly with Certified Financial Planner.

Build emergency fund for 6 months expenses minimum.

Create term insurance of Rs. 1 crore if not yet done.

Take health insurance for yourself and dependent.

Avoid ULIPs or investment insurance products.

Avoid index funds as they don’t beat market always.

Regular mutual funds via Certified Financial Planner give better support.

Avoid direct plans as they give no guidance or help.

When Should You Buy A House Then?

When you have minimum Rs. 35 to 40 lakhs corpus ready.

When EMI is less than 35% of your salary.

When you have 6 to 12 months emergency fund set aside.

When your SIP and PPF can continue without stopping.

When job and income feel stable for long term.

Till then, stay in rent and grow your investments.

You can invest even with property in mind.

Create a “home goal fund” in short to medium mutual funds.

Add lumpsum to this if salary rises or bonuses come.

Review property market every year with your Certified Financial Planner.

If property prices fall or income increases, reassess.

Extra Steps You Can Take

Avoid lifestyle inflation. Keep expenses simple.

Don’t buy car or other EMI-based assets now.

Keep salary hike savings 100% for investments.

Increase SIP every year as income grows.

Protect your dependent with medical cover and estate plan.

Consider creating a Will for your assets.

Keep updating your plan every year or with life changes.

Finally

You are doing very well at this stage of life.

Your savings rate is excellent.

Your investment approach is balanced and smart.

Buying a home now is not right timing.

It may reduce your long-term growth and flexibility.

Delay home purchase for 2 to 3 years minimum.

Use this time to strengthen your investment base.

Let your SIPs and PPF grow your net worth.

Use Certified Financial Planner for regular reviews and guidance.

Stay focused on what matters – stability, growth, peace.

House can wait. Financial freedom cannot.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

..Read more

Latest Questions
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10071 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Aug 01, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 06, 2025Hindi
Money
Dear Sir, My home loan is 24.5 LAC. And it's started from last year April 2024, my emi is 30,600 per month for 10 years, if i paid 10 LAC in Jan 2026 it will be beneficial for me or wait for sometime to pay pre closure amount
Ans: Your question is very timely and thoughtful.

You have already completed over one year of EMI payments.

You are also planning a Rs. 10 lakh prepayment in Jan 2026.

This shows strong discipline and intention to reduce debt early.

That is highly appreciated.

Let’s evaluate the benefit from all angles before making the decision.

Let’s assess your EMI schedule, tax benefits, interest savings, and liquidity needs.

We will also look at emotional peace, risk readiness, and overall financial health.

» EMI Tenure and Loan Progress

– Your loan began in April 2024. EMI is Rs. 30,600 for 10 years.

– By Jan 2026, you would have paid 21 EMIs. That is nearly 2 years of repayment.

– You would still have around 99 EMIs pending after Jan 2026.

– Most interest is paid in the first few years. That’s how home loan schedules work.

– So prepayment at this stage can save you substantial interest.

– But, the benefit must be compared with your other financial needs.

– This is not only about saving interest. It is about holistic financial planning.

» Interest Cost Evaluation and Savings Opportunity

– Your home loan interest rate is not mentioned. But let us assume a normal range.

– Most floating-rate loans now charge 8.5% to 9.5% annually.

– Prepaying Rs. 10 lakhs will reduce the outstanding principal sharply.

– As a result, the total interest over the loan period will reduce.

– You may save many lakhs over the long term by doing this early prepayment.

– You will also reduce your EMI period or future EMI amount.

– That helps you become debt-free faster.

– But, timing matters. January 2026 is still over 5 months away.

– You must consider where that Rs. 10 lakhs is now kept.

– Is it earning anything? If kept idle in savings, it gives low returns.

– In that case, prepayment gives better value.

– But if it is growing in mutual funds or long-term instruments, returns may be higher.

– Compare this interest cost versus what you earn from that Rs. 10 lakh.

– You must also think about safety, peace of mind, and future stability.

» Tax Benefits on Home Loan and Prepayment Impact

– Under Sec 24(b), you get deduction of up to Rs. 2 lakhs on home loan interest.

– This reduces your taxable income. Helps especially if you are in the 20% or 30% slab.

– Also, under Sec 80C, you get Rs. 1.5 lakh deduction for principal.

– But that Rs. 1.5 lakh 80C is usually covered by EPF, PPF, insurance, ELSS, etc.

– If you prepay Rs. 10 lakh, your interest in future years may fall.

– Then, the Rs. 2 lakh interest deduction under Sec 24(b) may not be fully used.

– But remember, you are spending Rs. 10 lakhs to save Rs. 2-3 lakhs of tax.

– That alone should not decide the choice.

– Interest saved is usually more than tax benefit lost in the long run.

– Prepayment still makes sense. But only if you are not compromising other goals.

– Always assess tax benefit as a secondary aspect, not the main reason.

» Your Liquidity and Emergency Readiness

– The biggest question is: Will you have enough money left after prepayment?

– Will you still have emergency funds of 6 to 12 months of expenses?

– Will you have cash for job loss, health issues, or family needs?

– Rs. 10 lakh is a big amount. Once paid, you cannot get it back easily.

– Banks do not refund prepayments. So you must be ready for cash crunch.

– If you have other liquid savings of at least Rs. 3 to 5 lakhs, then it is safe.

– But if this Rs. 10 lakh is your full backup, wait before prepaying.

– You must not become asset-rich but cash-poor.

– Also, do not disturb investments set for your long-term goals.

– Check how your mutual funds, PF, PPF, child goals, and retirement are aligned.

– Your financial safety net should never be at risk due to a home loan prepayment.

» Emotional Peace and Debt Reduction Mindset

– Paying off loans early gives peace of mind.

– Mentally, it feels lighter to reduce your EMI burden.

– For many families, freedom from loans matters more than returns from investment.

– If this Rs. 10 lakh is not required for your next 5 years, then prepaying is peaceful.

– But if the same money is helping you sleep better by keeping it in hand, wait.

– Your comfort and security are more important than any math.

– Financial planning is not only numbers. It is also emotional readiness.

– A good Certified Financial Planner balances both head and heart.

– If you feel better seeing lesser EMIs or faster closure, then go ahead with prepayment.

– If you fear losing liquidity or missing opportunities, then wait.

– In either case, the aim is to stay financially strong, not just interest-efficient.

» Other Choices to Use That Rs. 10 Lakh

– If you are not fully prepared for long-term goals, this Rs. 10 lakh may help.

– Retirement corpus, child education, spouse goals — all need investment.

– If those are underfunded, invest this Rs. 10 lakh in mutual funds.

– But not in index funds or direct funds.

– Index funds may look cheap, but they follow the market blindly.

– They underperform in volatile or sideways markets.

– Actively managed mutual funds by experienced managers adapt better.

– Direct funds also seem cheaper on surface.

– But there is no support, guidance, or review.

– Regular plans through a qualified MFD with CFP guidance add long-term value.

– The extra 0.5% cost gives better selection, periodic review, and mistake-avoidance.

– That brings better return than direct, unmanaged investing.

– So if you delay prepayment, don’t keep that Rs. 10 lakh idle.

– Put it to work through a long-term, diversified, tax-aware mutual fund portfolio.

– Match it to your goals, age, and risk appetite.

– Use only debt funds for less than 3 years. Use equity for more than 5 years.

– Also follow the updated capital gains tax rules now in force.

– These will apply when you exit mutual funds later.

– If this Rs. 10 lakh is not required in near future, investing may grow your wealth.

– If this feels unsafe, then home loan prepayment is still a good call.

» Ideal Approach Based on Situation

– If you have no major upcoming expense, then early prepayment is useful.

– If your emergency fund is untouched, then this move is secure.

– If your long-term goals are already funded, prepayment clears debt faster.

– If interest rate is above 9%, prepayment becomes even more beneficial.

– If job is stable and no income interruption is foreseen, go ahead.

– But if any of these are weak or uncertain, do not hurry.

– Wait for 6-12 months. Observe how rates, income, and expenses move.

– Meanwhile, invest that Rs. 10 lakh in a short-term fund with liquidity.

– Let that money earn better than savings account.

– If situation remains strong by Jan 2026, you may prepay with full confidence.

– Else, you can decide again at that point based on comfort and readiness.

– Either way, you are still progressing.

– Both options — prepayment or investing — are productive, if handled with thought.

» Finally

– You are thinking in the right direction. That’s the best start already.

– You are not ignoring the EMI burden. You want to plan ahead.

– That is very encouraging.

– Do not feel forced to prepay or delay.

– The right answer depends on your comfort, liquidity, and goals.

– Early prepayment is good if your financial base is ready.

– But there is no harm in waiting a few more months and reassessing.

– Peace and clarity are more important than urgency.

– You can also take part prepayment route. Pay Rs. 5 lakh in Jan 2026.

– Keep another Rs. 5 lakh for emergency or mutual fund.

– That brings the best of both.

– Stay debt-free, but also stay liquid and goal-focused.

– A Certified Financial Planner can help you model both paths and take balanced action.

– The right move is one that fits your full financial picture — not just the EMI part.

– Keep going strong.

– You are already ahead of many by asking this question today.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10071 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Aug 01, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 05, 2025Hindi
Money
I am 35yrs old and my monthly salary is 75k. I am married and I have family health insurance of 10 lakhs, I have a daughter and a son and we are expecting the third child in the month of December. I have started with SIP of 1k 3 months back. I am taking mortgage loan of 30 lakhs on the house for 13 % interest from IIFL kindly suggest me to utilise the loan amount properly in various ways possible to invest. I am planning to utilise for the coaching centre development and 10 lakhs is taken for my brothers kidney transplant treatment expenditure.
Ans: – You are managing family, career, and investments together.
– Starting SIP early is a very positive step.
– Taking responsibility for your brother’s treatment shows great strength.
– Planning coaching centre development is a wise idea.
– Having family health cover is also a good base already.

» Analysing the Loan and Its High Interest Rate

– Rs. 30 lakhs loan at 13% interest is quite costly.
– This means high EMI and high total interest outgo.
– Every rupee must be used carefully to avoid wastage.
– Unused funds from the loan must not sit idle.
– Interest burden will continue regardless of usage.

» Immediate Medical Emergency for Brother

– Rs. 10 lakhs for kidney transplant is necessary and unavoidable.
– Keep this amount fully liquid and easily accessible.
– Use savings account or short-term ultra-safe debt fund.
– Avoid locking this amount in business or market-linked funds.
– Medical treatment should be done on priority basis.

» Business Development – Coaching Centre Use

– This is an opportunity for future income growth.
– Plan expansion only after checking location demand.
– Avoid spending large amount at once.
– Phase out business investments over 6 to 12 months.
– Start with essentials like rent, furniture, and staff salary.
– Don’t overspend on branding or decoration initially.
– Use part of loan in setting up technology and marketing.
– Focus on breakeven as early as possible.

» Avoid Spending Full Loan Immediately

– You are not forced to use all Rs. 30 lakhs now.
– Keep a part of loan in low-risk parking place.
– Use short-term debt fund or liquid fund with no exit load.
– Withdraw when business or medical needs arise.
– Don’t allow funds to lie in savings account earning low interest.

» Do Not Use Any Amount for Consumption

– Don’t use loan money for personal luxury or lifestyle.
– No electronics, jewellery, or vehicles from this loan.
– You are paying 13% interest, use it only for value creation.
– Avoid giving any part of the loan to others as casual support.

» Managing EMI Alongside Household Budget

– EMI on Rs. 30 lakhs at 13% will be heavy.
– Your Rs. 75k salary will face pressure from EMI, SIP, and family.
– Keep fixed monthly expenses under tight control.
– Review all regular spends and cut non-essentials.
– Prioritise needs over wants for the next 2–3 years.
– Increase SIP only once your EMI is manageable.

» Continue SIP with Discipline

– Though amount is small, your SIP builds wealth habit.
– Don’t stop SIP even if budget becomes tight.
– Increase SIP slowly as income rises.
– Choose actively managed funds, not index funds.
– Index funds don’t protect during market fall.
– Active funds adjust to changes and give better protection.

» Direct Funds Are Not Ideal for You

– Avoid investing in direct mutual funds.
– You get no personalised support or guidance there.
– Wrong decisions can damage long-term wealth.
– Invest via regular plans with an MFD and CFP.
– Get full-time advice, updates, and goal tracking help.

» Emergency Fund is Missing

– You must keep Rs. 1–2 lakhs aside for emergencies.
– This should not come from loan amount.
– Build this over next few months from salary savings.
– Use high-liquidity options like liquid mutual funds or sweep FD.

» Child-Related Future Expenses

– You are expecting third child soon.
– Future expenses like education and health will increase.
– Avoid touching SIP or business funds for school fees.
– Plan separate SIPs for kids’ education goal later.
– Maintain health insurance with maternity cover wherever possible.

» Keep Personal and Business Accounts Separate

– Don’t mix business and personal funds.
– Create a separate bank account for coaching centre.
– Record all income and expense in simple format.
– Use business income to slowly repay loan too.

» Loan Repayment Should Be a Priority

– Try to repay part of loan early if possible.
– Business profit can be used to prepay some part.
– Even Rs. 2–3 lakhs paid early will reduce interest burden.
– Don’t wait for full term of loan.
– Avoid taking another loan till this one is cleared.

» Don’t Invest Remaining Loan in Risky Options

– Don’t try to grow loan money via equity investments.
– You are paying 13% interest.
– Most equity returns are not guaranteed and are market linked.
– If returns go down, you still pay full interest.
– Use loan only for fixed needs like business or treatment.

» Avoid Insurance-Cum-Investment Products

– Don’t use loan money for buying ULIPs or endowment plans.
– They give poor returns and lock your money.
– They mix insurance with investment, which is harmful.
– If you already hold such plans, review and consider surrender.
– Use that money in good mutual funds for better results.

» Long-Term Financial Strategy After Loan Use

– Once business is running, start surplus-based SIPs.
– Create specific SIPs for child education and retirement.
– Review insurance needs again after third child is born.
– Don’t over-rely on health cover from employer.
– Take term insurance separately for family safety.

» Monitoring and Support

– Review all goals every 6 months.
– Track loan balance, business income, SIP growth.
– A CFP can support you across all financial areas.
– Work with MFD for implementation and fund advice.

» Finally

– You are taking bold and smart steps under pressure.
– Rs. 10 lakhs for brother’s health is unavoidable.
– Use it only for that and keep it liquid.
– Use balance money gradually for coaching centre.
– Don’t spend full Rs. 30 lakhs in one go.
– Avoid luxury or emotional spending with loan money.
– Keep EMI low by avoiding misuse of loan.
– Continue SIP without fail.
– Avoid index funds and direct funds.
– Use only actively managed mutual funds through MFD.
– Repay loan as early as possible.
– Start new SIPs once income improves.
– Maintain strong financial habits and discipline.
– Your future will surely improve with right planning.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

...Read more

DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Investment in securities market are subject to market risks. Read all the related document carefully before investing. The securities quoted are for illustration only and are not recommendatory. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information and as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision. RediffGURUS is an intermediary as per India's Information Technology Act.

Close  

You haven't logged in yet. To ask a question, Please Log in below
Login

A verification OTP will be sent to this
Mobile Number / Email

Enter OTP
A 6 digit code has been sent to

Resend OTP in120seconds

Dear User, You have not registered yet. Please register by filling the fields below to get expert answers from our Gurus
Sign up

By signing up, you agree to our
Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy

Already have an account?

Enter OTP
A 6 digit code has been sent to Mobile

Resend OTP in120seconds

x