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

Sanjeev Govila  | Answer  |Ask -

Financial Planner - Answered on Dec 06, 2023

Colonel Sanjeev Govila (retd) is the founder of Hum Fauji Initiatives, a financial planning company dedicated to the armed forces personnel and their families.
He has over 12 years of experience in financial planning and is a SEBI certified registered investment advisor; he is also accredited with AMFI and IRDA.... more
Pradeep Question by Pradeep on Nov 24, 2023Hindi
Listen
Money

In view of upwards revision of interest rate what option i should give to bank for EMI payment of home loan. option given by bank is as under: i) Pay lumpsum amt to continue with present EMI ii) Increase in loan tenor with increase in EMI iii) Increase the EMI to pay the loan within the existing tenor

Ans: You should consider the following factors to cope with finance in the revised hiked interest rate regime:

• If you have money lying idle in your bank account or have some random investments earning low yields, put it to good use. Make lump sum amount and also consider loan prepayment, which will substantially reduce your overall interest payment and helps to save interest on the loan.

• If you could afford to increase the EMI to pay the loan to maintain the loan tenure, you should go for that.

As a thumb rule, don’t opt for a loan tenure beyond 15 years. Beyond that, interest liabilities shoot up without offering commensurate benefits in the form of lower EMI. The decision to go for lump sum payment or increasing EMI depend on your upcoming requirement, goal priority and commitment’s as well. Thus, ideal situation is due cashflow analysis.
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  |10924 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 29, 2024

Listen
Money
Hello sir my housing loan account is with bank of india where my emi starting was 7.25 percent before 3 yrs now it is been increased to 9.75 percent I regularly ask bank official about the increased rate of interest but they tell it is becos of increasing rapo rate And replies since I am a gold costumer of bank my EMI is reduced to 9.25 percent I feel this is also very high Expert please advise
Ans: Thank you for sharing details about your housing loan situation. It is indeed challenging when interest rates increase, impacting your financial planning. Let’s evaluate your current scenario and explore potential solutions to manage your housing loan more effectively.

Understanding Interest Rate Fluctuations
Interest rates on housing loans are influenced by various factors, including the Reserve Bank of India's (RBI) repo rate. When the repo rate increases, banks generally raise their lending rates. Over the past three years, your interest rate has increased from 7.25% to 9.75%, reflecting this trend.

Evaluating Your Current Rate
Although you mentioned you are considered a gold customer with a slightly reduced rate of 9.25%, this rate still appears high. Considering market trends and available rates from other financial institutions, it is crucial to assess if you can secure a better deal.

Steps to Consider for Managing Your Housing Loan
1. Refinancing Your Loan
Refinancing or transferring your loan to another bank offering lower interest rates could be beneficial. Here’s how you can proceed:

Research: Compare interest rates offered by various banks and financial institutions. Look for promotional offers and rates for balance transfer loans.

Calculate Savings: Evaluate the potential savings by considering the new interest rate, processing fees, and any other charges. Online calculators can help estimate these savings.

Application Process: If the savings are significant, initiate the loan transfer process. The new lender will pay off your existing loan, and you will continue with the new lender at the reduced rate.

2. Negotiating with Your Current Bank
Before deciding on a loan transfer, negotiate with your current bank. Here are steps to strengthen your negotiation:

Present Market Rates: Gather information on current market rates and offers from other banks. Present this data to your bank.

Highlight Your Profile: Emphasize your status as a gold customer, consistent repayment history, and any long-standing relationship with the bank.

Request Rate Reduction: Formally request a reduction in your interest rate. Banks may offer a reduced rate to retain valued customers.

3. Switching to a Different Loan Product
Some banks offer different loan products with varying interest rates and benefits. Explore if your bank has alternative loan schemes with better rates and terms. Switching to a more favorable product could reduce your financial burden.

Evaluating the Financial Impact
1. Cost-Benefit Analysis
Conduct a detailed cost-benefit analysis before making any changes. Consider the following:

Processing Fees: Check the processing fees for transferring the loan or switching products.
Prepayment Charges: Some loans have prepayment penalties. Ensure you are aware of these charges if applicable.
New EMI and Tenure: Calculate the new EMI and loan tenure. Ensure it fits your budget and long-term financial plans.
2. Impact on Monthly Budget
Assess the impact of the new EMI on your monthly budget. Ensure the revised EMI is affordable and does not strain your finances. Maintain a balance between meeting EMI obligations and saving for future goals.

Exploring Additional Strategies
1. Prepayment Options
If you have surplus funds, consider prepaying a part of your loan. Prepayment reduces the principal amount, thereby lowering the interest burden over the loan tenure. Most banks allow partial prepayments without any penalties.

2. Increasing EMI Payments
If feasible, increase your EMI payments. Higher EMIs reduce the loan tenure and overall interest outgo. Ensure the increased EMI is sustainable within your financial plan.

Consulting a Certified Financial Planner
A Certified Financial Planner can provide tailored advice on managing your housing loan. They can help you evaluate options, negotiate with banks, and make informed decisions. Their expertise ensures your financial strategy aligns with your long-term goals.

Conclusion
Your concern about the high-interest rate is valid. By exploring refinancing options, negotiating with your current bank, and evaluating different loan products, you can potentially reduce your interest burden. Additionally, prepayment and increasing EMI payments can further manage your loan effectively. Consulting a Certified Financial Planner for personalized advice is also recommended.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Latest Questions
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10924 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 23, 2025

Money
Hi Sir, I started a SIP of 3k from 3months investing in Nipon India Small Cap fund. I started investing via \xis bank mobile app. Please suggest me if thats the safe way to do through bank app. And I am willing to start another SIP of 3k per month. Planning to do it on groww app. Please suggest some good SIP plans and guide me on how good and safe to start via groww app.
Ans: I appreciate your early step into disciplined investing.
Starting SIPs shows long-term thinking.
Beginning small builds confidence and learning.
Your willingness to ask questions is healthy.

» Your Current SIP Action Review
– You started SIP of Rs 3,000 monthly.
– SIP duration is three months.
– Investment is through a bank mobile app.

This shows good initiative.
Early habits shape future wealth.

» Understanding Your Chosen Fund Category
– The fund belongs to small-sized companies category.
– Such funds are high risk.
– Such funds give high volatility.

Returns can be uneven yearly.
Patience is very important here.

» Suitability Of Small Company Funds
– Small companies grow faster sometimes.
– They also fall harder during corrections.
– Not suitable as first-only investment.

Exposure should be limited initially.
Balance is essential.

» Starting Early
– You started without waiting for perfection.
– Many delay investing unnecessarily.
– Action matters more than perfection.

This mindset helps long-term success.

» Risk Awareness Is Necessary
– Small company funds fluctuate sharply.
– Short-term losses are common.
– Emotional control is required.

Three months is too short to judge.
Time horizon should be long.

» Minimum Suggested Time Horizon
– Such funds need at least seven years.
– Shorter periods cause disappointment.
– SIP helps reduce timing risk.

Consistency matters more than returns initially.

» Bank App As Investment Platform
– Bank apps are generally safe.
– Transactions are regulated.
– Holdings are stored with registrars.

Platform safety is not the main risk.
Investment choice matters more.

» Limitations Of Bank Apps
– Limited guidance provided.
– Product pushing is common.
– Advice is not personalised.

Banks focus on convenience.
Planning depth is usually missing.

» Bank Staff Support Limitations
– Staff change frequently.
– Knowledge levels vary.
– Long-term accountability is absent.

This affects continuity of advice.

» Safety Of Investments Versus Platform
– Funds are held in your PAN.
– Platform failure does not erase investments.
– Units remain safe with fund house.

So platform safety fear is minimal.
Decision quality matters more.

» Planning Another SIP Thought
– You want another Rs 3,000 SIP.
– Total SIP becomes Rs 6,000 monthly.

This is positive growth behaviour.
But structure needs correction.

» Platform Comparison Perspective
– You plan using another app.
– Such apps promote self investing.
– Guidance quality is limited.

Ease should not replace planning.

» Direct Platform Reality Check
– Such apps promote direct plans.
– Expense difference looks attractive.
– But hidden costs exist.

Cost is not only expense ratio.
Mistakes cost more.

» Disadvantages Of Direct Plans
– No personalised advice.
– No behaviour guidance during falls.
– No portfolio review support.

Investors act emotionally without guidance.
This hurts returns badly.

» Decision Errors In Direct Investing
– Panic selling during market falls.
– Overconfidence during rallies.
– Frequent fund switching.

These mistakes destroy compounding.
They are very common.

» Lack Of Accountability In Apps
– Apps do not call you.
– Apps do not stop wrong actions.
– Responsibility lies fully on investor.

This is risky for beginners.

» Why Regular Plans Add Value
– Guidance helps discipline.
– Asset allocation stays balanced.
– Behavioural mistakes reduce.

Value is beyond commission.
Support matters during volatility.

» Role Of MFD With CFP Credential
– Certified Financial Planner gives structure.
– Advice aligns with goals.
– Long-term handholding exists.

This improves investment experience.
Returns become smoother.

» Cost Versus Value Perspective
– Direct plans save small percentage.
– Wrong decisions lose big percentages.

Net outcome matters more.
Peace of mind matters too.

» Your Current Portfolio Concentration Risk
– Only one equity category exposure exists.
– Risk is concentrated.
– Diversification is missing.

This increases volatility risk.
Balance is needed urgently.

» Importance Of Diversification
– Different funds behave differently.
– Market cycles impact unevenly.
– Balance reduces shock.

Diversification improves consistency.

» Ideal SIP Structure For Beginners
– One aggressive component.
– One stable growth component.
– One flexible allocation component.

This spreads risk evenly.
Comfort increases automatically.

» Why Avoid Multiple Apps
– Tracking becomes confusing.
– Discipline weakens.
– Reviews become difficult.

One guided platform is better.
Simplicity improves adherence.

» Data Security Perspective
– Apps are regulated.
– Data security standards exist.
– Risk is minimal.

But advice quality remains missing.

» Behaviour During Market Corrections
– Small company funds fall sharply.
– Beginners panic easily.
– SIP stoppage becomes tempting.

Guidance prevents wrong reactions.

» Emotional Support Value
– Markets test patience.
– Fear appears suddenly.
– Someone must guide.

Apps cannot replace humans here.

» Why Starting With Only Small Companies Is Risky
– Volatility is high.
– Returns are uneven.
– Confidence may break early.

Balanced start builds trust.

» Gradual Exposure Approach
– Start with core stability.
– Add aggression slowly.
– Increase risk with experience.

This improves journey comfort.

» SIP Amount Increase Strategy
– Rs 6,000 is fine initially.
– Increase annually with income growth.
– Discipline matters more than amount.

Time creates wealth here.

» Tax Awareness Brief
– Equity funds tax applies on selling.
– Long-term gains have limits.
– Short-term gains are taxed higher.

Holding longer improves efficiency.

» Avoid Frequent Changes
– Switching funds harms compounding.
– Costs increase silently.
– Discipline reduces regret.

Stick to strategy firmly.

» Monitoring Frequency
– Review once a year.
– Avoid monthly checking.
– Noise causes confusion.

Long-term vision matters.

» Avoid Social Media Influence
– Tips are often misleading.
– Past returns are highlighted.
– Risk is hidden.

Structured advice avoids traps.

» Role Of Goal Mapping
– Define why you invest.
– Time horizon matters.
– Risk choice depends on goals.

Without goals, investing feels stressful.

» Emergency Fund Reminder
– Keep emergency money separate.
– Do not mix with SIPs.
– Liquidity is essential.

This prevents SIP stoppage.

» Insurance And Protection Check
– Health cover should be adequate.
– Life cover matters if dependents exist.

Protection supports investment continuity.

» Long-Term Wealth Mindset
– Wealth grows slowly.
– Patience beats intelligence.
– Process beats prediction.

Consistency wins always.

» Common Beginner Mistakes To Avoid
– Chasing last year returns.
– Using too many apps.
– Ignoring allocation balance.

Awareness saves money.

» How A CFP Helps In SIP Planning
– Designs suitable allocation.
– Reviews yearly changes.
– Guides during volatility.

This partnership adds value.

» Confidence Building Perspective
– You already started investing.
– You are learning actively.
– Improvement is natural.

This journey will get smoother.

» Platform Safety Final View
– Bank app is safe.
– App based platforms are safe.
– Investment safety lies with fund house.

Decision quality matters more.

» Final Insights
– Starting SIP is a good step.
– Small company exposure is risky alone.
– Diversification is necessary now.
– Avoid self-direct platforms initially.
– Regular plans with CFP guidance add value.
– Consistency and discipline build wealth.

You are on the right path.
Correct structure will improve outcomes.

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