A mortgage is one of the alternatives offered by the market to facilitate the purchase of an apartment for sale in Medellín or anywhere else in the country. This type of mortgage loan is most commonly used to make investments or purchase a second property. It also represents one of the most important decisions at both the family and personal level, due to the commitment and effort involved in this long-term process. Below, we explain what a mortgage is and how it works.
What is a mortgage?
A mortgage is a loan intended for the purchase of a home. The buyer receives a sum of money from the bank, committing to repay the money plus interest through monthly payments. In this type of loan, the property itself serves as collateral.
In our country, mortgages are backed by Article 2432 of the Colombian Civil Code, which states that “a mortgage is a pledged right constituted on real estate that remains in the possession of the debtor.”
What percentage does a bank lend for a mortgage loan?
It is important to note that the bank only lends you a percentage of the total value of the property, usually 70%. No loan is disbursed for 100% of the value of the property. The remaining value must be assumed by the buyer. You should also bear in mind the additional costs of deeds and legal processes, which may vary depending on the price of the property.
What types of mortgages are available in Colombia?
When purchasing a house or apartment for sale in Medellín, financial institutions offer different mortgage options, some of which are:
Open mortgage: This is a financial product in which the bank makes the product available to the customer for a period of between 6 and 12 months. This option allows the customer to pay off the entire loan without incurring penalties. However, this option has a higher interest rate.
Closed mortgage: This offers a lower interest rate and a longer term, which can be 25 to 30 years. However, if the customer decides to make a payment greater than the agreed amount, they may be penalized.
Open mortgage with no limit on the amount: With this mortgage option, the amount can be increased, as can the term agreed with the lender for repayment. This is also known as a mortgage extension.
How can you pay off a mortgage faster?