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Buying land is a big investment that offers a solid addition to one’s portfolio. However, sometimes a plot loan is required to finance such a purchase. A plot loan is intended exclusively for people who want to purchase land. Whether someone wants to invest in land or plans to build a home in the future, this kind of financing is necessary.
Understanding everything about plot loans, including the best lenders offering them, can help make an informed decision. Read the blog to get an overview of plot loans in India. By the end of this blog guide, you will have a thorough understanding of the plot loan, empowering you to secure the best possible financing for your plot purchase.
Table of Contents
A plot loan, also known as a land mortgage loan, is a financial product designed to help individuals purchase a plot of land. Unlike a home loan, which is used to buy an already constructed property or to fund the construction of a house, a plot loan is specifically for buying land.
Suggested read: Plot Loan vs Home Loan
Feature |
Plot Loan |
Home Loan |
Purpose |
To purchase a plot/land |
To purchase or construct a residential house |
Property Type |
Only non-agricultural or residential plots |
Flat, villa, bungalow, under-construction, or ready-to-move |
LTV (Loan to Value) Ratio |
|
Up to 90% |
Construction Requirement |
Some lenders mandate construction within 2-5 years |
Not applicable, as the loan is for construction/home buying |
Interest Rates |
Slightly higher interest rates than home loans |
Generally lower interest rates |
Tenure |
Usually up to 15 years |
Can go up to 30 years |
Eligibility |
More restricted; it depends on location and land use |
Broader eligibility, including all approved residential projects |
Suggested read: Flats vs Plot
Several types of lenders in India offer plot loans, each catering to different borrower needs. Here’s a detailed look at the options:
Public sector banks are government-owned financial institutions that offer plot loans with regulated interest rates and a strong emphasis on documentation and compliance. While the approval process may be slightly longer, these banks are trusted for their transparency and customer service.
Best for: Salaried individuals and first-time buyers seeking reliable terms.
Private banks are known for quicker loan processing, more digital touchpoints, and a variety of plot loan products. They often provide personalized services and flexible eligibility criteria. While interest rates might be slightly higher than public banks, the faster turnaround can be worth it.
Best for: Professionals, entrepreneurs, and tech-savvy borrowers looking for faster approvals and customer-friendly interfaces.
HFCs specialize in housing-related finance, including plot and construction loans. They are regulated by the National Housing Bank (NHB) and often cater to borrowers who may not meet traditional banking criteria, such as self-employed individuals or those without regular income documentation.
Best for: Individuals seeking flexible documentation norms or planning to build a house on the plot soon.
NBFCs offer plot loans with minimal paperwork, faster processing, and slightly relaxed eligibility criteria. While their interest rates may be marginally higher, they’re preferred by borrowers who face challenges getting loans from traditional banks.
Best for: Self-employed, freelancers, and those looking for quick funding with minimal documentation.
Choosing the right lender for a plot loan is essential for securing the best interest rates and terms. The table below summarizes the top banks in India offering plot loans, including their interest rates, maximum tenure, processing fee, and overall affordability.
Name of Lender | Interest Rates | Maximum Tenure | Processing Fee |
HDFC Bank | 8.70% – 9.95% | 15 years | Up to 1.50 % of the loan amount |
SBI | 9.45% – 9.85% | 10 years | Up to 0.35% of the loan amount |
ICICI Bank | 8.50% – 9.25% | 15 years | Up to 1% of the loan amount |
Axis Bank | 8.75% – 9.19% | 20 years | Up to 1% of the loan amount |
PNB Housing Finance | 9.00% – 9.50% | 20 years | Up to 1.25% of the loan amount |
HDFC Bank offers competitive interest rates ranging from 8.70% – 9.95% with a maximum tenure of 15 years. The processing fee is up to 1.50 % of the loan amount, making it an affordable option for borrowers. HDFC Bank is known for its customer-centric approach, offering a seamless application process and quick disbursement of funds. Additionally, HDFC Bank provides flexibility in repayment options, allowing borrowers to choose between different EMI schemes that suit their financial situation. The bank’s extensive branch network and efficient customer service make it a convenient choice for plot loan seekers.
SBI is known for its moderate interest rates between 9.45% – 9.85% and a maximum tenure of 10 years. The processing fee is relatively low, up to 0.35% of the loan amount, which makes SBI a favorable choice for many borrowers. SBI’s plot loan product, called SBI Realty, is designed to provide maximum benefits to borrowers, including the option of a separate home loan for construction on the purchased plot. The bank’s robust online portal and mobile app allow for easy application tracking and management of the loan account, adding to the convenience of borrowers.
ICICI Bank provides plot loans with interest rates ranging from 8.50% – 9.25%. The maximum tenure offered is 15 years, and the processing fee is up to 1% of the loan amount, ensuring high overall affordability. ICICI Bank is renowned for its innovative digital solutions, offering a fully online application process that reduces paperwork and expedites loan approval. The bank also provides a pre-approved loan facility for existing customers, which can significantly shorten the processing time. With personalized loan offers and a dedicated relationship manager for assistance, ICICI Bank ensures a smooth borrowing experience.
Suggested read: Home Loan for Land Purchase
Axis Bank offers plot loans with interest rates between 8.75% – 9.19% and a maximum tenure of 20 years. The processing fee is up to 1% of the loan amount, making it an attractive option for those looking for long-term financing. Axis Bank’s plot loan, known as “Axis Bank Land Loan,” comes with flexible repayment options and a grace period for construction. The bank’s extensive branch network and 24/7 customer support ensure that borrowers have access to assistance whenever needed. Axis Bank also offers competitive rates and special discounts for salaried individuals and premium customers.
PNB Housing Finance provides plot loans with interest rates ranging from 9.00% – 9.50%. The maximum tenure is 20 years, and the processing fee is up to 1.25% of the loan amount. This makes PNB Housing Finance a moderate affordability option. PNB Housing Finance is known for its transparent loan processes and customer-friendly policies. The company offers doorstep service for loan documentation and disbursement, ensuring convenience for borrowers. Additionally, PNB Housing Finance allows transferring an existing plot loan from another lender to avail of better rates and terms, making it a flexible choice for borrowers.
These banks offer competitive rates and terms, making them some of the best options for a loan for plot purchase. Comparing these options will help you find the best lender to suit your financial needs and goals.
Tax benefits on plot loans are more limited compared to home loans, but understanding them can still lead to significant savings. Here are the key tax benefits associated with plot loans in India:
These benefits make it financially prudent to consider constructing a home on the plot within the stipulated period to avail of the tax advantages. It is also important to keep proper records of all interest payments and construction-related expenses to ensure the smooth processing of tax benefits.
Eligibility criteria for plot loans vary from lender to lender, but some common factors influence loan approval. Understanding these criteria can help you prepare better and increase your chances of securing a loan.
Using a plot loan eligibility calculator provided by most lenders on their websites can give you a preliminary idea of your eligibility. These calculators consider factors like income, age, and existing liabilities to provide an estimate of the loan amount you can qualify for.
Suggested read: YEIDA Plot Scheme
To apply for a plot loan, you need to provide several documents to support your application. Here is a comprehensive list of commonly required documents:
Having these documents ready can expedite the loan approval process and ensure a smooth application experience. It is important to keep both original and photocopies of these documents as lenders may require both for verification.
Securing a plot loan requires careful consideration of various factors, including the choice of lender, understanding the eligibility criteria, and preparing the necessary documents. By selecting one of the top financial institutions for plot loans in India, you can benefit from competitive interest rates and favorable terms. Additionally, being aware of the limited but significant tax benefits can help you maximize your financial advantages.
Always use tools like a plot loan eligibility calculator to assess your readiness and explore the best options for your loan for plot purchase. With the right approach, financing your plot purchase can be a seamless and rewarding experience. By planning and choosing the right lender, you can make the process of buying a plot of land a smooth and successful endeavor. Whether you are buying land for building your dream home or as a long-term investment, understanding the intricacies of plot loans will help you make informed decisions and achieve your financial goals.
Several banks in India offer loans for purchasing a plot of land. Some of the top banks that provide plot loans include HDFC Bank, State Bank of India (SBI), ICICI Bank, Axis Bank, and PNB Housing Finance. Each of these banks offers competitive interest rates, varying tenures, and different processing fees to cater to the diverse needs of borrowers.
Yes, buying a plot on loan can be a good financial decision, especially if you plan to construct a house on it in the future or if you see it as a valuable investment. However, it is important to consider the higher plot loan interest rates compared to home loans and the limited tax benefits. Ensure that you evaluate your financial stability and long-term goals before taking a plot loan.
While plot loans can be beneficial, they also come with certain disadvantages. Plot loan interest rates are generally higher than home loan rates, making them a more expensive financing option. Additionally, the tax benefits on plot loans are limited and can only be availed if the plot is used for constructing a house within a specified period, typically within five years of purchase. This requirement imposes a construction time frame that might not suit all borrowers.
The maximum amount of a plot loan varies by lender and depends on factors such as the borrower’s income, credit score, and the value of the plot. Generally, banks finance up to 70-80% of the plot’s value, subject to their internal policies and the borrower’s eligibility. Using a plot loan eligibility calculator can help you get an estimate of the maximum loan amount you may qualify for.
When looking to buy land, a plot loan is the most suitable option. It is essential to compare different lenders based on their interest rates, processing fees, loan tenure, and customer service to choose the best loan for your plot purchase. Additionally, consider your plans for the plot and whether you will need a construction loan later, as some lenders offer combined loan products for plot purchase and construction.
Published on 19th June 2024