What Is a Loan? How Does It Work?

A loan is a sum borrowed from a financial institution, such as a bank or non-banking financial company (NBFC), with the agreement that it will be repaid over a set time. The repayment usually includes the original amount (called the principal) along with interest, which is the cost charged by the lender for providing the funds. Loans are a common way for individuals and businesses to access immediate funds for purposes they might not otherwise be able to afford upfront.

Loans serve as a financial resource to help meet various needs, including buying a home, purchasing a vehicle, paying for education, covering medical costs, or expanding a business. Their terms, including interest rates, repayment periods, and eligibility, vary based on lenders and borrowers’ financial standings. Home Book simplifies this process by offering a centralized platform where users can explore loan options from multiple banks. It enables easy comparisons, helping borrowers understand different terms and select the most suitable financing solution. With streamlined access to lending opportunities, Home Book ensures users make informed financial decisions efficiently.

Tailored Loan Solutions

We offer customized home loan options that cater to your unique financial needs, ensuring flexible repayment terms and competitive interest rates.

Fast Approval Process

Our streamlined application and quick approval process ensure that you get your home loan sanctioned without unnecessary delays.

Expert Guidance

Our team of experienced financial experts provides personalized assistance throughout the loan journey, from application to disbursement.

Transparent Process

No hidden charges or complex terms โ€“ we believe in complete transparency, ensuring you know exactly what you're signing up for.

Types of Loans

Whether aiming for a significant goal or facing unexpected expenses in Hyderabad, loans can be effective financial tools to provide support. Understanding the variety available is key, as different loan types are designed to address specific circumstances. Loans are typically divided into three main categories:

Depending on the Level of Security Offered

Loans are further categorized into two subtypes based on the level of security offered. These are:

Secured Loans: Assets like property or vehicles can secure loans. Due to reduced lender risk, these loans offer lower interest rates. Examples include mortgages and car loans. Failure to repay can lead to the loss of the pledged asset.

Unsecured Loans: Unsecured loans donโ€™t require any collateral. They usually have higher interest rates based on creditworthiness. Common types are personal loans and credit cards. Lenders base their approval decisions primarily on the borrowerโ€™s income and credit score.

Depending on the Purpose

Four main loan subtypes are aligned with a distinct purpose to suit different borrower requirements.

Home Loans: Specifically designed for buying or constructing residential property in Hyderabad, these loans use the property as collateral. They typically offer larger amounts and longer tenures and cover new homes, resale properties, plots, or home improvements.

Vehicle Loans: This loan is designed to assist with purchasing a new or pre-owned four-wheeler or two-wheeler in Hyderabad, with the vehicle as collateral. The loan amount is typically determined by the cost of the car and your repayment capacity.

Education Loans: This loan helps cover educational costs for undergraduate and postgraduate studies in India or abroad. Applicants must submit proof of admission, and the funds can be used for tuition, living expenses, and other related costs.

Personal Loans: Personal loans are unsecured loans that can be used for various purposes, such as consolidating debt, covering medical expenses, or funding individual projects. Approval is generally determined by your credit score and ability to repay the loan.

Depending on the pledged assets

Loans fall into two distinct categories depending on the presence of pledged assets. These include:ย 

Loan Against Assets: To secure these loans, borrowers must pledge assets like property, insurance policies, or investments as collateral, which minimizes the lenderโ€™s risk and can lead to improved loan terms.

Gold Loan: Gold loans require borrowers to offer gold, typically in the form of jewelry, as collateral. Lenders can seize and sell the gold to recover the loan amount if repayment is not made. These loans are processed quickly and suit short-term financial needs.

Essential Points to Keep in Mind Before Applying for a Loan

  • Before applying for a loan through HomeBook, a platform that connects borrowers with multiple banks, it’s essential to assess key factors to ensure a seamless borrowing process.
  • Review your financial health, including your income, expenses, and current debts. Your credit score plays a significant role in determining loan eligibility and the interest rates you’re offered, so it’s also essential to check that.ย 
  • Since HomeBook provides access to various lenders, take the time to compare interest rates, repayment terms, and processing fees to find the most favorable loan option.ย 
  • Additionally, consider whether you need a secured loan, which requires collateral like property or gold, or an unsecured loan, which doesn’t require assets but may come with higher interest rates.
  • Reviewing the terms and conditions is just as important as selecting the right loan when applying for one.
  • Understanding the repayment structure, including EMI calculations, loan tenure, and penalties for late or early payments, is essential to avoid unexpected costs.ย 
  • Ensure you have all required documents, such as income verification, identity proof, and collateral-related paperwork if youโ€™re applying for a secured loan.ย 
  • Also, consider additional charges like processing fees and insurance, which can affect the total cost of the loan. These steps will help you choose the most appropriate loan and manage repayments smoothly without added financial pressure.

ย Loan Interest Rates of all Banks and NBFCS for 2025

Bank/Financial Institution

Interest Rate (p.a.)

Notes

State Bank of India

8.25% onwards

Rates starting at 8.25%.

Union Bank of India

8.10% onwards

Provides some of the lowest rates for home loans.

Canara Bank

8.15% onwards

Affordable rates starting at 8.15%.

Bank of Baroda

8.15% onwards

Rates starting at 8.15%.

Central Bank of India

8.25% onwards

Starting rate of 8.25%.

Bank of India

8.40% onwards

Attractive rates starting at 8.40%.

Bank of Maharashtra

8.10% onwards

One of the most affordable options.

Punjab National Bank

8.15% onwards

Rates starting at 8.15%.

HDFC Home Loans

8.75% onwards

Reliable with rates starting at 8.75%.

ICICI BANK

8.70% onwards

Starting rate of 8.70%.

Axis Bank

8.75% onwards

Offers flexibility starting at 8.75%.

Kotak Mahindra Bank

8.75% onwards

Competitive home loan rates starting at 8.75%.

IDBI Bank

8.50% onwards

Accessible with rates starting at 8.50%.

Bandhan Bank

9.16% onwards

Rates starting at 9.16%.

Yes Bank

9.00% onwards

Flexible repayment options with rates from 9.00%.

HSBC Bank

8.50% onwards

Flexible terms with rates from 8.50%.

Karur Vysya Bank

8.75% onwards

Rates starting at 8.75%.

Punjab and Sind Bank

8.25% onwards

Competitive rates starting at 8.25%.

IDFC First Bank

8.85% onwards

Rates starting at 8.85%.

Jammu and Kashmir Bank

8.75% onwards

Competitive rates starting at 8.75%.

South Indian Bank

8.50% onwards

Offers good options for homebuyers starting at 8.50%.

Federal Bank

8.80% onwards

Excellent customer service with rates starting at 8.80%.

Standard Chartered Bank

8.95% onwards

Flexible loan conditions with rates starting at 8.95%.

Karnataka Bank

8.85% onwards

Rates starting at 8.85%.

Saraswat Bank Home Loan

8.70% onwards

Flexibility for homebuyers starting at 8.70%.

Dhanlaxmi Bank

Contact for rates

Contact the bank for updated details.

Hudco Home Loan

9.25% onwards

Specific eligibility conditions with rates starting at 9.25%.

LIC Housing Finance

8.50% onwards

Competitive rates starting at 8.50%.

Sundaram Home Finance

Contact for rates

Contact the bank for floating/variable rates.

Tata Capital

8.75% onwards

Competitive offers starting at 8.75%.

Tamilnad Mercantile Bank

8.60% onwards

Rates starting at 8.60%.

Aditya Birla Housing Finance

8.60% onwards

Rates starting at 8.60%.

GIC Housing Finance

8.80% onwards

Competitive rates starting at 8.80%.

Shriram Housing Finance

9.50% onwards

Suitable for various borrower needs with rates starting at 9.50%.

ย ย ย ย ย 

ย 

Tips for Enhancing your loan Eligibility

Maintain a Good Credit Score: A strong credit history is paramount. Ensure you pay all your existing EMIs and credit card bills on time, keep your credit utilization low (ideally below 30% of your limit), and avoid applying for multiple loans or credit cards in a short period. Check your credit report regularly and take action to fix any issues.

Increase Your Income Stability: A steady income with proof of employment or business earnings reassures lenders. Consider additional income sources, such as freelance work or rental earnings, to improve eligibility.

Clear Existing Debts: Settle outstanding loans or credit card balances to improve your financial standing. Lower liabilities signal strong repayment capacity and reassure lenders. This can enhance loan approval chances and lead to better terms.

Choose the Right Loan Amount and Tenure: Take only as much loan as necessary and ensure it fits within your repayment capacity. While a longer tenure can lower your monthly EMIs, it leads to higher interest payments overall. Use EMI calculators online to explore and plan your loan responsibly.

Increase Your Down Payment: Increasing your down payment on secured loans, such as home or auto loans, can boost your eligibility. It reduces the loan amount required and minimizes the lender’s risk, often resulting in better terms and lower EMIs.

Prepare and Submit Verified Documents: ย Accurate documentation, including proof of employment, income, and identity, ensures a smoother approval process without unnecessary delays.

Maintain a Balanced Credit Portfolio: A mix of credit cards, personal loans, and other credit lines in good standing demonstrates responsible debt management.

Documents Required to Apply for a Loan

Securing a loan is a significant financial decision, and submitting the proper documents is essential for a hassle-free approval process. Ensuring accurate paperwork speeds up approval, whether you need a personal, home, or business loan. At Homebook, we simplify the journey by guiding you through the necessary documentation.

Identity Proof

Proof of identity is the first set of documents required for any loan application. Lenders need to verify your identity to confirm the legitimacy of your application and ensure you are who you say you are. Commonly accepted documents for identity verification are:

  • Aadhaar Card
  • PAN Card
  • Passport
  • Voter ID
  • Driving License

These documents establish your identity and are crucial for meeting regulatory requirements.

Address Proof

To verify your current residence, you must provide proof of address, which is essential for effective communication and helps lenders evaluate your stability. Acceptable documents include:

  • Utility bills (electricity, water, and gas)
  • Aadhaar Card (if updated with your current address)
  • Passport
  • Ration Card
  • Rent Agreement (if applicable)

Submitting one ensures lenders can reliably reach you and confirm your residential status. Let me know if youโ€™d like any further refinements.

Income Proof

Establishing your ability to repay the loan is crucial when applying. Lenders require proof of a steady income to ensure you can manage the repayments. Depending on your job status, the types of income proof documents you submit may differ:

ย  ย  ย  ย  ย For Salaried Employees:

ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย Salary statements covering the previous 3 to 6 months

ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย Form 16 issued by your employer

ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  Bank statements showing salary payments over the last 6 months

ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย Income Tax Returns (ITR), if relevant

ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  For Self-Employed Individuals:

ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย Proof of income tax submissions for the previous 2 to 3 years

ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย Profit & Loss Statements and Balance Sheets (audited if required)

ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย GST Registration Certificate (if applicable)

ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  Bank Statements reflecting business transactions over the last 6 months

These documents help lenders assess your financial stability and ability to repay the loan.

Employment or Business Proof

Depending on your employment status, further income verification may be needed. Employed individuals may be asked to provide proof of employment, such as an employment letter or company ID card. On the other hand, self-employed individuals will need to present business-related documents to validate the authenticity of their business. Examples include:

  • Business Registration Documents

  • GST Certificate

  • Professional Qualifications (for professions like doctors, lawyers, etc.)

These additional documents enable lenders to assess the stability of your employment or business and your income

Loan-Specific Documents

The documents you need for your loan application will vary by loan type. For a home loan, the following documents are often required:

  • Property Documents (including sale agreements and title deeds)

  • Approved Building Plans

  • No Objection Certificate from the builder or residential society

Documentation is typically simpler for personal loans, but proof of income and identity verification are still necessary.

Why we are the best

Tailored Loan Solutions
We offer customized home loan options that cater to your unique financial needs, ensuring flexible repayment terms and competitive interest rates.
Fast Approval Process
Our streamlined application and quick approval process ensure that you get your home loan sanctioned without unnecessary delays.
Expert Guidance
Our team of experienced financial experts provides personalized assistance throughout the loan journey, from application to disbursement.
Transparent Process
No hidden charges or complex terms โ€“ we believe in complete transparency, ensuring you know exactly what you're signing up for.
Hyderabad-Focused Services
With deep knowledge of the Hyderabad real estate market, we offer insights and advice to help you make the best home-buying decisions.
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FAQโ€™S

Loans are generally classified based on purpose, repayment structure, and security. Here are the most common classifications:

  • Secured Loans require assets like real estate or vehicles as collateral. Typical examples are mortgages and auto loans.

  • Unsecured loans, such as personal Loans or credit cards, do not need collateral and rely on the borrower's credit score.

  • Short-term loans are intended for immediate financial needs and are repaid within a year. Payday loans and short-term business loans fall into this category.

  • Long-term loans extend over several years and are often used for larger expenses like buying a home or paying for education.

  • Fixed-rate loans maintain the same interest rate for the duration, ensuring predictable payments.

  • Variable-rate loans have interest rates that adjust with the market, leading to potentially changing monthly payments.

  • Installment Loans are repaid through scheduled monthly payments, such as car or home loans.

  • Revolving Loans, like credit cards and lines, allow ongoing borrowing and repayment up to a set credit limit.

A loan payment is a recurring sum that a borrower remits to a lender, gradually settling the loan. It generally consists of both principal, which lowers the outstanding balance, and interest, the charge for borrowing. While payments are often made monthly, they can vary based on loan terms, with the amount determined by the loan size, interest rate, and duration.

Before applying for a loan, you must identify the type of loan you need and the amount you wish to borrow. Compare different lenders to find the most favorable interest rates and terms available. You'll also need to prepare essential documents, such as identification, proof of income, and credit records. Once everything is ready, you can submit your application online or in person, and then you'll need to wait for the lenderโ€™s response.

To keep your loan costs low, itโ€™s important to borrow only whatโ€™s absolutely necessary and to choose the shortest repayment period that aligns with your budget. This approach typically results in lower interest charges. Make sure to compare different lenders to find the most competitive rates available. Consider making extra payments to reduce the principal more quickly whenever you can. A strong credit score can open up better loan offers for you. Be sure to read the terms carefully and pay on time to prevent incurring unnecessary charges and penalties.

Loan Term defines the repayment period for a loan, typically spanning months or years. It sets the maturity date and affects how much the borrower pays monthly. With short-term loans, you make larger payments, but the total interest paid is lower.

Loan Amortization is the structured loan repayment process through periodic payments covering interest and principal. Most of the payment initially goes toward interest, while a greater share is directed to the principal as time progresses. Amortization schedules break down the payment distribution across the loan duration.

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