With income of 30k I am paying 50k emi monthly. I want to reduce the amount or extend tenure I spoke with lenders not working. So I want to reduce the emi burden and extend tenure. I have option but interest is higher I will have to pay more every month and finish it fast. I have loan offer of 1 lakh at 35% pa

Ans: Taking a home loan is a significant financial decision. Your goal to repay the loan before the tenure ends is commendable. Let's explore various strategies to achieve this goal, considering your financial profile and objectives.

Understanding Your Current Financial Situation
You are 32 years old, with a monthly income of Rs. 51,000. You have taken a home loan of Rs. 25 lakhs at an interest rate of 8.75% for 15 years, resulting in an EMI of Rs. 24,000. This EMI constitutes a substantial portion of your monthly income.

Budgeting and Cash Flow Management
Effective budgeting is crucial. Track your expenses meticulously. Identify areas where you can cut costs. Allocate more funds towards your loan repayment. This disciplined approach will free up money for additional EMI payments or lump-sum prepayments.

Setting Up an Emergency Fund
Ensure you have an emergency fund. This fund should cover at least six months of your expenses, including your EMI. It acts as a financial cushion, preventing you from defaulting on your EMI in case of unforeseen circumstances.

Increasing Your EMI Payments
One of the most straightforward ways to repay your loan early is by increasing your EMI payments. If you can afford to pay more than Rs. 24,000 per month, do so. Even a small increase can significantly reduce your loan tenure and interest burden.

Making Lump-Sum Prepayments
Utilize bonuses, incentives, or any windfall gains to make lump-sum prepayments towards your loan. Most lenders allow you to make prepayments without any penalties. This reduces the principal amount, leading to lower interest and a shorter loan tenure.

Prioritizing High-Interest Debt
If you have other high-interest debts, prioritize repaying them first. Once these are cleared, channel the freed-up funds towards your home loan. This strategy ensures you save more on interest payments in the long run.

Exploring Additional Income Sources
Consider supplementing your income with part-time work or freelance opportunities. The additional income can be directed towards your loan repayment. This approach not only accelerates loan repayment but also enhances your financial stability.

Reviewing and Adjusting Your Investments
Evaluate your current investment portfolio. Ensure that it aligns with your goal of early loan repayment. If you have low-yielding or non-essential investments, consider liquidating them to make prepayments towards your loan.

Benefits of Actively Managed Funds
When considering investments, it's important to focus on actively managed funds. Unlike index funds, which merely track the market, actively managed funds aim to outperform the market. They provide the benefit of professional management and the potential for higher returns.

Regular Funds Through Certified Financial Planner
Investing through a certified financial planner (CFP) has its advantages. Regular funds managed by a CFP can offer personalized advice and ongoing support. This guidance can help you optimize your investments for better returns and achieve your financial goals efficiently.

Utilizing Tax Benefits
Maximize the tax benefits available on your home loan. Under Section 80C, you can claim a deduction of up to Rs. 1.5 lakhs on the principal repayment. Additionally, under Section 24(b), you can claim a deduction of up to Rs. 2 lakhs on the interest paid. These deductions can reduce your taxable income, resulting in tax savings.

Staying Financially Disciplined
Maintaining financial discipline is key to early loan repayment. Avoid unnecessary expenses and impulsive purchases. Stick to your budget and prioritize loan repayment. This disciplined approach will ensure steady progress towards your goal.

Reviewing Your Loan Regularly
Regularly review your loan and financial situation. Assess your progress and make necessary adjustments to your repayment strategy. This proactive approach will keep you on track and help you identify opportunities for faster loan repayment.

Seeking Professional Advice
Consider consulting a certified financial planner (CFP) for personalized advice. A CFP can provide a comprehensive financial plan tailored to your situation. They can help you optimize your investments, manage risks, and achieve your financial goals efficiently.

Final Insights
Repaying your home loan before the tenure ends is a realistic goal with proper planning and discipline. Focus on effective budgeting, increasing EMI payments, making lump-sum prepayments, and optimizing your investments. Seek professional advice when needed to ensure you stay on track.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in