If you want to purchase property, whether for a business or home, you do so by taking out a bond. A bond is more commonly referred to as mortgage. It’s rare that an individual will have ample enough funds to purchase a property straight-up. So the individual must borrow from the bank.
Banks are in business to lend money, so bonds have always represented a primary service they offer. Holding a mortgage is a way the bank will make a long term profit, because they not only receive money from the individual but also hold the deeds to the property until the loan is repaid in full.
Taking out a new mortgage is a straightforward process, much like the first time you took out a loan for your property.
The current mortgage crisis has resulted from banks, especially in the United States, becoming too lenient in who they offer mortgages too. In fact, sometimes banks allowed people to take out mortgages with little down. They are now paying the price, and as a result, must only offer new mortgages with a high down payment.
When considering such a request, the bank will follow the procedures that they would do when granting a new mortgage, but with one or two minor differences. If you plan on renovating your current property and just need help via a loan, the bank will request you submit estimates from professional contractors. Banks are much more inclined to grant the money if professionals will work on the renovation and not yourself.
Bonds are intended for the long-term, with a minimum of ten years required, and generally running more in the twenty to thirty year period. People who apply for mortgages for the first time must display a steady employment and pasty financial stability for at least a few years.
The bank also tends to frown upon second bonds that are intended to help release some capital on the property to a struggling business or to support your own, especially if you are looking to start the business from scratch.
If you meet the bond’s criteria, have a stable job and ample income, the bond is probably only a signature or two away. Just make sure allow the bank plenty of time to examine the bond request and you think it through intensely.
Graham McKenzie is the content syndication manager at BondCredit.co.za South Africans leading Bond Originator