For many people, applying for a home loan comes with trying to understand an unending list of jargon, along with meeting different and equally challenging requirements. These can be daunting, and it's alright to feel a little overwhelmed.

We're here to take you through all you need to know about home loans. This article discusses what home loans are, the requirements to get one, and why you should consider applying for a loan. There's nothing left out, so jump right in with a mind ready to learn.

What is a home loan?

A home loan is usually called a mortgage. These are particular types of loans are used by many in acquiring a property. Once you put in an application and it's approved, your chosen mortgage lender gives you an agreed amount of money to purchase your new home. You then have to pay back your loan, with the purchased house being used as security.

Typically, home loans are repaid as monthly payments or fortnightly, for a 25 to 30-year duration. No matter the amount you ask for, there's a fixed or variable interest placed on the borrowed sum. The longer it takes you to pay, the more you pay.

What do you need to get a home loan?

The process of applying for a mortgage or home loan can indeed be tedious and lengthy, but with the proper documents and all requirements met, you're assured of a speedy and stress-free process. As a borrower, we've listed below a few things you need to get a home loan.

Income

The first thing you need is a stable income. When it comes to applying for loans, the higher your income, the better your chances of approval. A lender will check your monthly income to ensure that you'll be able to pay it back in due time once your loan has been approved.

Some of the ways you can show your stable income are via a display of your bank statements that show your salary deposits, payslips, or an actual letter from your company of employment. If you own a business owner, you'll have to submit financial statements from the previous years, your accountant's details, tax returns, and more intimate financial details about your business.

Another thing you will need is a house deposit. This deposit should be at least 5 percent of the purchase price of your house or apartment.

Good Credit Score

Having an excellent credit score is essential to your success in receiving a mortgage as a potential homebuyer. Before you receive any form of finance, a lender will need to look at your credit history, starting with the details of your credit score. Your credit score is based on how often you've applied for credit, in addition to all the bills and loans you've paid off.

This score is a mark out of 1000, and it takes into account every credit card you own and as well as past and current debts. In addition to having a sound credit score, be sure not to have any judgments against you. If you've declared any form of bankruptcy in the past, this can seriously affect your score and your chance of having your loan approved or receiving the best rate on the market.

If you're buying a home that's already been built, your lender might ask to see the signed contract, and they may also evaluate the property to be sure it is worth what you're asking for. For those wishing to build their own homes, you might need to show an approved construction plan in addition to a fixed-price builders contract.