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Should I Sell My Existing House to Avoid Paying EMI on My New Home?

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  | Answer  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jan 20, 2025

Ramalingam Kalirajan has over 23 years of experience in mutual funds and financial planning.
He has an MBA in finance from the University of Madras and is a certified financial planner.
He is the director and chief financial planner at Holistic Investment, a Chennai-based firm that offers financial planning and wealth management advice.... more
Ashutosh Question by Ashutosh on Jan 20, 2025Hindi
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Hello Sir, I am 37 year old, married and have a Daughter who is 2 year old. We are in process of buying a new house in the City where I am working, for which I will be taking 80% Loan. I already own a house whose loan has been closed but it is located in another City. I want to know, financially will it be better to sell the other house, and close the new loan, or keep paying EMI of the new house, while keeping the other one. The other house is right now on rent, but the rental yield is very low, approximately 2.5% I have a good MF account which I am not going to liquidate, and I can continue the SIP, even with the EMI going on

Ans: You are planning to buy a new house in your work city.

You will take a loan covering 80% of the cost.

You already own a house in another city, which is on rent but provides low yield (2.5%).

Your mutual fund portfolio is healthy and ongoing SIPs will continue.

Assessing the Financial Options
Option 1: Selling the Old House and Closing the Loan
Loan-Free Living: Selling the old house eliminates the new house EMI.

Low Rental Yield Issue: With just 2.5% yield, keeping the old house may not be optimal.

Capital Appreciation Consideration: Assess whether the old house has strong future appreciation potential.

Tax Implications: Selling the house may lead to capital gains tax. Calculate this before deciding.

Option 2: Keeping the Old House and Paying EMI
Diversified Assets: Keeping the old house retains a tangible asset apart from your mutual funds.

Loan Interest Considerations: Compare the home loan interest rate with the rental yield.

Rental Income Value: If the rental yield does not cover even a part of the EMI, this option may strain cash flow.

Hassle Factor: Managing a property in a different city involves effort and costs.

Evaluating the Loan Repayment
Factors to Consider
Loan Tenure and EMI: Longer tenure results in more interest outflow.

Home Loan Tax Benefits: Interest repayment and principal repayment have tax benefits.

Cash Flow Analysis: Ensure EMI payments do not restrict your other financial goals.

Impact on Mutual Fund Investments
Your decision should not impact ongoing SIPs.

Equity mutual funds offer better returns than the rental yield of 2.5%.

Liquidating mutual funds to close the loan is not advisable.

Tax Implications on Property and Loan
Selling the Old House
Capital gains tax applies if sold at a profit.

You can reinvest gains in another property to claim exemptions under Section 54.

Home Loan Repayment
Interest repayment qualifies for tax deduction under Section 24(b).

Principal repayment is eligible under Section 80C, capped at Rs. 1.5 lakh annually.

Final Insights
Selling the old house can simplify finances and reduce debt.

Keeping the house works only if rental yield improves or capital appreciation is significant.

Do a detailed analysis of cash flow, tax implications, and opportunity costs.

Your decision must balance current needs with long-term financial goals.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment
Asked on - Jan 20, 2025 | Answered on Jan 20, 2025
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thank you Sir for sharing the insight
Ans: You're welcome! If you have any more questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask. Best wishes on your financial journey!

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment
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.
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Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 13, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - May 07, 2024Hindi
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Iam 30 years old ,and i have an outstanding home loan of 30 lacs, iam earning 20 lacs a year tax free, I have invested in various mfs and my current value of assets are around 30 lacs, iam getting good returns on my investments (average rate of 18%), my question is should I close my loan or continue paying emi of 30k per month? .I have been advised to let my investments grow and keep paying the emis, i might get get married within 2 years and was thinking of becoming loan free before getting married.
Ans: Financial Decision: Pay Off Home Loan or Continue Investing?

At 30, with a tax-free annual income of 20 lacs and investments valued at 30 lacs, you're in a comfortable financial position. Let's analyze your options regarding your outstanding home loan of 30 lacs and whether to continue paying EMIs or close the loan:

Advantages of Continuing EMIs:

Investment Growth: Your investments are performing well with an average rate of return of 18%. By continuing to pay EMIs and letting your investments grow, you can potentially earn higher returns than the interest rate on your home loan.

Liquidity: By keeping your investments intact, you maintain liquidity and flexibility. This can be beneficial in case of any unforeseen expenses or investment opportunities.

Tax Benefits: Home loan EMIs come with tax benefits on both principal repayment and interest paid. By continuing to pay EMIs, you can avail of these tax deductions, reducing your overall tax liability.

Advantages of Closing the Loan:

Debt-Free Status: Paying off your home loan will give you peace of mind and a sense of financial freedom. Being debt-free can reduce stress and provide a strong financial foundation for future goals, including marriage.

Reduced Interest Burden: By closing the loan early, you save on the interest that would have accrued over the remaining loan tenure. This can result in significant savings in the long run.

Improved Credit Score: Being debt-free can positively impact your credit score, which is essential for future financial endeavors like applying for additional loans or credit cards.

Recommendation:

Considering your financial stability, investment performance, and the possibility of marriage within 2 years, it's advisable to prioritize becoming loan-free before tying the knot. Here's why:

Financial Freedom: Eliminating debt before marriage can reduce financial stress and allow you to focus on building a strong foundation for your future family.

Reduced Financial Obligations: Being debt-free gives you more flexibility in managing joint finances with your future spouse and planning for shared goals like buying a house or starting a family.

Long-Term Benefits: While your investments are performing well, becoming debt-free provides a guaranteed return in the form of interest savings and psychological peace of mind.

Final Thoughts:

Considering the advantages of being debt-free and your stable financial situation, it's recommended to prioritize paying off your home loan before getting married. Review your financial plan with a Certified Financial Planner to ensure it aligns with your goals and aspirations.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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Asked by Anonymous - Jan 19, 2025Hindi
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Hello Anu ma'am Please help.URGENT I am a divorced working woman , with a daughter 8 yrs. I have been pursued for remarriage with a guy who is 10 yrs older to me and have 2 kids. 11 and 14 yrs respectively living in a small town. Initially it was agreed the elder child who is a boy would be living in hostel , but now since we are approaching near to the marriage, it seems the elder male child is going to stay at home and not hostel. This is making me really uncomfortable as I won't get much privacy also the male child is aggressive.Already handling one kid was difficult before. Also moving to small town was difficult transition from a metropolitan that I stay in. Moving there could mean losing job opportunities in future. I am really worried if I let this match go, I end up alone again. I am not able to make a decision, it's difficult to raise others children. It's just not naturally inbuilt in us.Although I try really hard to mould my thinking and be more generous, but somehow it suffocates me.
Ans: Dear Anonymous,
Second or subsequent marriages come with their own set of challenges; one being accepting the other person's reality from their past which is children.
Yes, you are right that it is never easy to accept and raise another person's child BUT hey it's also possible, right? Why go behind what's not possible and actually think what can be possible; especially because you seem to want this new marriage to work. Then make it work. Once you accept things for what is, you will figure out a way to manage your work and also your newer responsibilities. Life does not move exactly the way you want or wish, but if you focus on the good side of it, a lot of things that bother you become easier to handle. Actually, start to get excited about your new phase of life BUT if you are going into the marriage with conditions, it may get challenging. It's not fair to want one child and not want another. It disturbs their equilibrium and what they share with their father.

All the best!
Anu Krishna
Mind Coach|NLP Trainer|Author
Drop in: www.unfear.io
Reach me: Facebook: anukrish07/ AND LinkedIn: anukrishna-joyofserving/

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Asked by Anonymous - Jan 19, 2025Hindi
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I am a widow and mother of a 6 yr old special child. My daughter is going to an inclusive school with a shadow teacher. I came in contact with a divorcee 1.5 yrs back and we have mutual regard. Parents know this and they have left this decision on us...If we want to go ahead with marriage. The problem is...boy is unsure if he would be able to take up responsibility of father of a special kid. And if we go on to plan for another child, will I be able to manage two kids , one with special condition..taking care of special kid is also financially draining..also the guy is planning to relocate abroad...that would again be a challenge for me ..as taking care of special kid abroad is tougher as there will be no helpers available there..One option everyone is suggesting is to keep my kid in hostel..if keeping in boarding school is beneficial for her ..I don't have issue .but in india there are no such inclusive set up boarding schools..and I don't want to put her in a special school...what should I do? I was thinking to remarry only for emotional companionship..Should I just say no to marriage as there will be lot of compromises...and I don't want my kid to suffer because of this. I am earning enough for my kid and myself. Pls suggest
Ans: Dear Anonymous,
How exactly do you expect a special child to cope in a boarding school? I am sure that is something that has crossed your mind.
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Does it bother you that this man does not accept your life as is? If Yes, read on...
Does it bother you that you are the one who is making changes to accommodate this person? If Yes, read on...
Would you have liked it if he willingly had accepted your life as is? If Yes, read on...

Think about this a lot before you make a decision to be with him. There's a lot to think as a parent and he isn't one and may never get the point of how your life is. Take you time before you decide anything...

All the best!
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Drop in: www.unfear.io
Reach me: Facebook: anukrish07/ AND LinkedIn: anukrishna-joyofserving/

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Asked by Anonymous - Jan 21, 2025Hindi
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I'm 32, with no savings other than my monthly SIP of 5000 which i have been doing since 2022 september. I have no financial backing, could you help me with a break up of how i can start investing and saving.
Ans: At 32, starting with Rs. 5,000 monthly SIP is a good first step. Building wealth requires a structured approach to saving and investing. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you achieve financial stability and growth.

Assessing Your Current Situation
You have no financial backing, so an emergency fund is critical.

Your monthly SIP indicates discipline in investing.

Prioritising goals and systematic planning will strengthen your finances.

Step 1: Establish an Emergency Fund
Save at least 6 months' worth of monthly expenses in a liquid fund or savings account.

Allocate a fixed portion of your income every month for this purpose.

Emergency funds should be easily accessible but not used for routine expenses.

Step 2: Manage Expenses Effectively
Create a monthly budget to track income and expenses.

Identify unnecessary expenses and redirect the savings towards investments.

Follow the 50-30-20 rule:

50% for necessities (rent, food, bills).
30% for discretionary spending (entertainment, hobbies).
20% for savings and investments.
Step 3: Continue and Enhance SIP Contributions
Your Rs. 5,000 SIP in equity mutual funds is a good start.

Gradually increase the SIP amount as your income grows.

Choose funds based on your risk tolerance and investment horizon.

Step 4: Diversify Your Investments
Equity Mutual Funds

Continue investing in actively managed funds for long-term growth.
Focus on funds with consistent performance over 5-10 years.
Debt Funds or Fixed Deposits

Allocate a portion to safer instruments for stability.
These options can balance risk in your portfolio.
PPF (Public Provident Fund)

Open a PPF account for tax-saving benefits and long-term compounding.
Invest a fixed amount annually to build a secure retirement corpus.
Gold for Wealth Protection

Allocate a small percentage (5-10%) to gold (SGB or gold mutual funds).
Gold acts as a hedge against inflation.
Step 5: Focus on Insurance and Risk Coverage
Purchase a term insurance policy with adequate coverage (10-15 times your annual income).

Ensure you have comprehensive health insurance to cover medical emergencies.

Avoid investment-cum-insurance policies as they deliver low returns.

Step 6: Plan for Long-Term Goals
Define specific financial goals like buying a house, retirement, or children's education.

Assign timelines and cost estimates to each goal.

Invest in equity for long-term goals (10+ years) and debt for short-term goals (1-3 years).

Step 7: Tax-Saving Investments
Use Section 80C instruments like ELSS, PPF, or NPS to save taxes.

ELSS funds provide equity exposure with tax benefits under Section 80C.

Avoid locking excessive funds in low-return tax-saving options.

Step 8: Automate Savings and Investments
Set up auto-debit for SIPs and savings to maintain consistency.

Automating investments reduces the temptation to spend unnecessarily.

Step 9: Regular Monitoring and Review
Review your portfolio every 6 months to track performance.

Rebalance your portfolio to maintain the right asset allocation.

Avoid frequent fund switching, as it may impact long-term returns.

Final Insights
Starting with limited resources can feel challenging but is achievable with discipline. Build an emergency fund, manage expenses wisely, and grow your investments systematically. Consult a Certified Financial Planner to optimise your portfolio and achieve your goals.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

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Asked by Anonymous - Jan 19, 2025Hindi
Listen
Relationship
I am a divorced working woman , with a daughter 8 yrs. I have been pursued for remarriage with a guy who is 10 yrs older to me and have 2 kids. 11 and 14 yrs respectively living in a small town. Initially it was agreed the elder child who is a boy would be living in hostel , but now since we are approaching near to the marriage, it seems the elder male child is going to stay at home and not hostel. This is making me really uncomfortable as I won't get much privacy also the male child is aggressive.Already handling one kid was difficult before. Also moving to small town was difficult transition from a metropolitan that I stay in. Moving there could mean losing job opportunities in future. I am really worried if I let this match go, I end up alone again. I am not able to make a decision, it's difficult to raise others children. It's just not naturally inbuilt in us.Although I try really hard to mould my thinking and be more generous, but somehow it suffocates me.
Ans: Dear Anonymous,
Let me ask you one thing, if you knew a plane was going to crash, would you still get on it because you are worried you will reach your destination late? No, right? Similarly, if you know this marriage could be really tough on you, with the added responsibilities of a teenager and another soon-to-be teenager, do you still want to go ahead with it, just because you might have to stay alone for a while longer?

I can't really make a decision for you, but I can urge you to rethink this alliance. It's great that you are trying to compromise but do not compromise so much that nothing that you want is given any importance. You cannot ask a father to send his child to a hostel so that you can have some privacy; similarly, no one can force you to raise him as well. The best decision would be to either reconsider the relationship or have an open conversation and come to a middle ground that works for all.

Best Wishes.

...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.

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