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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8005 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 22, 2024

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
Asked by Anonymous - Jun 22, 2024Hindi
Money

Is it wise to pay off the entire bank loan on a house built on my husband's ancestorial property using entire PF money to avoid paying high EMIs? The house can never be sold as it is on a prestigious ancestorial land. I am retired and do not have any regular income. Please advice.

Ans: I understand your situation and will provide detailed advice. Let’s dive into the details to help you make an informed decision.

Understanding Your Financial Position

Your question brings up some important financial concerns. You have retired, don’t have a regular income, and are considering using your Provident Fund (PF) money to pay off a bank loan on a house. This house is on your husband's ancestral property, which holds significant sentimental value and cannot be sold. These are critical points to consider before making a decision.

The Importance of Emergency Funds

One of the primary rules in personal finance is to maintain an emergency fund. This fund should ideally cover at least six months of your living expenses. Since you are retired and do not have a regular income, it’s crucial to have a financial cushion to cover unexpected expenses such as medical emergencies or home repairs. Before using your entire PF to pay off the loan, ensure that you have set aside enough money for such contingencies.

Evaluating Your PF Money Utilisation

Using your entire PF to pay off the loan might give you relief from the high EMIs, but it will also deplete a significant portion of your savings. Given your retired status, you need to carefully consider the consequences of using this money. Once your PF is exhausted, it won’t be easy to rebuild this fund without a regular income.

The High EMI Concern

High EMIs can indeed be a burden, especially when you do not have a steady income stream. However, there are several other strategies you could consider before deciding to use your PF money. It might be worth looking into the possibility of restructuring your loan. Speak to your bank to see if you can extend the tenure of the loan, which would reduce the EMI amount, making it more manageable on a monthly basis.

Exploring Loan Restructuring Options

Banks often offer various loan restructuring options, especially for retired individuals. These options might include extending the loan term, which can significantly reduce your monthly EMIs. While this might mean paying more interest over the life of the loan, it can help ease your monthly financial burden and allow you to retain more of your PF for future needs.

Consider Partial Payments

If paying off the entire loan seems too risky, you might consider making a partial payment. This could reduce the principal amount of the loan, thus lowering your EMIs. You’ll still retain some of your PF money for future needs, and you won’t be entirely depleting your savings.

Benefits of Retaining PF Money

Your PF money is a significant safety net. It’s not just about having cash available; it’s also about the potential returns on that money. If you invest your PF wisely, it can generate returns that might help cover your loan EMIs or other expenses. Consider consulting a Certified Financial Planner to explore investment options that can provide you with regular income or growth potential.

The Emotional Value of Ancestral Property

The house being on prestigious ancestral land adds a layer of complexity. Emotional and sentimental values are important and should be factored into financial decisions. Since selling the property is not an option, it’s crucial to balance emotional considerations with financial practicality. Paying off the loan entirely might feel like a relief, but ensure it doesn’t leave you financially vulnerable.

Disadvantages of Using Entire PF

Using your entire PF money to pay off the loan means you lose out on the compounding benefits of keeping that money invested. Once spent, it’s gone, and you might face financial difficulties if any unexpected expenses arise. It’s important to maintain a balance between reducing your debt and retaining financial liquidity for future needs.

Exploring Alternative Investment Options

Instead of depleting your PF, consider investing in mutual funds through a Certified Financial Planner. Regular funds, managed by experienced professionals, can offer better returns compared to direct funds. This strategy can provide a steady stream of income, which could help in managing your loan EMIs without exhausting your savings.

Benefits of Actively Managed Funds

Actively managed funds have the potential to outperform the market because they are managed by experts who make strategic decisions based on market conditions. While these funds may have higher fees than index funds, the professional management can lead to better returns, especially in a volatile market. By investing in these funds, you can generate returns that might help offset your loan payments.

The Role of Certified Financial Planners

Certified Financial Planners can help you create a diversified investment portfolio tailored to your risk tolerance and financial goals. They provide personalized advice, ensuring that your investments align with your need for income and growth. Working with a professional can help you make informed decisions, rather than depleting your PF.

Ensuring Financial Security

Financial security in retirement is paramount. Your focus should be on maintaining a steady income stream and preserving your savings. Consider all possible options to manage your loan without compromising your financial future. Consult with a Certified Financial Planner to explore ways to generate income from your investments and manage your debt efficiently.

Exploring Family Support

In situations involving ancestral property, family dynamics can play a crucial role. Discuss your financial situation with your family. There might be other family members willing to contribute towards the loan payments, especially if the property holds significant sentimental value for the entire family. Collaborative efforts can ease the financial burden on you.

Evaluating Long-term Financial Health

Consider the long-term implications of using your PF money. Retirement can last many years, and it’s important to ensure that your funds last. Evaluate your monthly expenses, potential future costs, and how much income you need to sustain your lifestyle. A detailed financial plan can help you make the right decision about your PF money.

Medical and Health Considerations

Healthcare costs can be a significant concern in retirement. Ensure you have adequate health insurance and set aside funds for medical emergencies. Using your PF to pay off the loan might leave you financially exposed if unexpected health issues arise. Prioritize your health and financial security.

The Importance of Diversification

Diversifying your investments is key to managing risk and ensuring stable returns. Instead of putting all your money into paying off the loan, consider spreading your investments across different asset classes. This can help mitigate risks and provide you with multiple income streams, enhancing your financial stability.

Benefits of Regular Investment through CFP

Investing through a Certified Financial Planner can provide access to a range of financial products suited to your needs. Regular investments in mutual funds, managed by professionals, can offer better returns and financial security. These planners can help you create a balanced portfolio, aligning with your retirement goals.


Financial Education and Empowerment

Empower yourself with financial knowledge. Understanding the basics of investments, market dynamics, and personal finance can help you make better decisions. Regular consultations with a Certified Financial Planner can provide you with the education and tools needed to manage your finances effectively.

Final Insights

Deciding to use your entire PF money to pay off a loan is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. Balancing the emotional value of your ancestral property with your financial security is key. Explore alternative options like loan restructuring, partial payments, and investing through a Certified Financial Planner. Maintaining an emergency fund, ensuring health coverage, and diversifying your investments will help secure your financial future. Consult with a financial expert to create a comprehensive plan that aligns with your retirement goals and provides peace of mind.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
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 12, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Oct 30, 2023Hindi
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Hi, Earlier, i had asked a question regarding a home loan i have. following is my question. "Hello Sir/Madam, I bought an apartment from a standard builder in Hyderabad. the possession of house supposed to happen after an year. So, i have taken house loan from a Bank for this house. Now, i have started the regular EMI for this with interest rate of 9%. so, my question is, monthly i have some surplus amount after the EMI and expenses, is it good idea to use that for repaying my home loan or do i need to wait till possession. My wife suggests to wait till the possession, then start repaying. Please suggest what do you think is better?" the answer i got was : yes, repay the house loan as the interest rate is high. However, as the possession of the apartment happens only after an year, is it good idea to repay the loan or not. the builder is a standard builder from Hyderabad. If we don't repay the amount any risk from builder is borne by the Bank, not me, hence i am asking this question. So, please answer. thank you Nagaraju
Ans: Unfortunately, I don't have access to your previous queries.Best Regards,

But generally, for a home loan with a high interest rate of 9%, it's usually recommended to start repaying the loan as early as possible to minimize the total interest paid over the loan term. Even though you haven't received possession of the property yet, repaying the loan can bring you benefits like:

Reduced interest burden: The sooner you start repaying, the less interest you will accrue over the loan term.
Improved credit score: Regular EMI payments can improve your credit score, making it easier to secure loans in the future and potentially at better interest rates.
However, there are also some factors to consider before making a decision:

Prepayment penalty: Some banks might have prepayment penalties for paying off the loan before the end of the term. Check your loan agreement for any such clauses.
Need for emergency funds: It's important to maintain an emergency fund to cover unexpected expenses. Ensure you have sufficient funds set aside before using your surplus for loan repayments.
If you're unsure about whether to start repaying the loan now or wait until possession, it's advisable to consult with a financial advisor. They can consider your specific financial situation and recommend the best course of action.
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Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8005 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 07, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 30, 2024Hindi
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Hello Sir, I m 44 year old women having 29 lakhs in equity & ELSS, 6 lakhs in PPF and 25 lakhs in FDs...I have retired now as was tired of doing sales job ..my question is I have 12 lakhs home loan to repay...my monthly expenses is 25k ...shall I pay that loan amount entirely now or the emi of 23 k till 2029 is feasible in my case?..
Ans: Considering your financial situation and retirement status, let's evaluate both options:

Paying off the Home Loan Entirely:
Advantages:
Eliminates the burden of debt and interest payments, providing peace of mind and financial freedom.
Saves on interest payments over the loan tenure, potentially resulting in significant savings in the long run.
Considerations:
Paying off a substantial portion of your savings (12 lakhs) may reduce your liquidity and emergency fund.
Evaluate whether you'll have enough savings left for emergencies and to maintain your desired lifestyle.
Continuing with EMI Payments:
Advantages:
Preserves your savings and liquidity, allowing you to maintain a financial cushion for emergencies and unexpected expenses.
The EMI of 23k per month may be manageable given your monthly expenses of 25k, allowing you to maintain your lifestyle.
Considerations:
You'll continue to have the burden of debt and interest payments for the duration of the loan tenure.
Evaluate whether you're comfortable with the ongoing financial commitment and potential interest payments over the long term.
Factors to Consider:

Emergency Fund: Ensure you have an adequate emergency fund to cover at least 6-12 months of living expenses.
Investment Opportunities: Consider whether you can potentially earn higher returns by investing the lump sum amount elsewhere.
Peace of Mind: Assess the psychological benefit of being debt-free versus having ongoing loan payments.
Ultimately, the decision depends on your individual preferences, risk tolerance, and financial goals. If being debt-free brings you peace of mind and you have sufficient savings for emergencies and retirement, paying off the loan entirely may be a prudent choice. However, if you prefer to maintain liquidity and have confidence in managing the EMI payments comfortably, continuing with the EMI payments could also be a viable option. Consider consulting with a financial advisor to assess the best course of action based on your specific circumstances.

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How many marks is required in neet to get admission in iisc bangalore
Ans: IISc is a premier institute. When planning to join a prestigious institution, it's important not to focus solely on the eligibility criteria. Generally, the minimum eligibility for admission varies between 50-60%. This means that if you have at least 60% marks in the required subjects, you still may not guarantee admission, as many aspirants intend to pursue their studies at the same institute. Consequently, competition can be intense, and some applicants might not secure a place.

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The candidates must have passed the Class XII (or equivalent) examination with science stream from any board recognized by the Council of Boards of School Education (COBSE) in India. Foreign Nationals need to upload an equivalence certificate issued by the Association of Indian Universities unless they have passed the Class XII or equivalent level examination from any board recognized by the Council of Boards of School Education (COBSE) in India. The equivalence certificate must be uploaded while submitting the IAT 2025 Application Form under "Please upload copy of document supporting your claim of Foreign National (You'll need to produce original when necessary)".

Candidates should have been born on or after October 01, 2000. Five years of age relaxation is given to SC, ST, and PwD candidates, i.e, these candidates should have been born on or after October 01, 1995. Note that, there is no restriction based on the completion year of Class XII.

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NOTE:
Candidates belonging to Kashmiri Pandit/Kashmiri Hindu Families (Non-Migrants) may apply for the IAT 2025 as Kashmiri Migrants subject to the fullfillment of other eligibility criteria. These candidates must upload a valid domicile certificate at the time of application under "Kashmiri Migrant Certificate".

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Admission to IISERs is exclusively through the IISER Aptitude Test (IAT), which is a computer-based test scheduled on Sunday, May 25, 2025 at 9:00 AM, at various centres across the country.

Performance Criteria in Class XII (or equivalent examination)
Candidates whose Class XII (or equivalent) examination results have not yet been declared can apply for IAT 2025. However, their admission will be subject to fulfilling the minimum eligibility criteria given above.
For candidates who have appeared in the Class XII (or equivalent) examination multiple times (for whatever reasons), the best of the performances in terms of aggregate in a given year will be considered.
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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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