In India, festivals are not just moments of celebration; they often mark new beginnings and important financial decisions. The ongoing Navratri festival, which began with Maa Chandraghanta on September 24 and concludes with Dussehra on October 2, is considered highly auspicious for purchasing a home. For many families, buying property during this period is not just an investment but also a symbolic step toward stability and prosperity.
Traditionally, Navratri and Dussehra are seen as perfect occasions for long-term financial planning. With interest rates stabilizing and banks offering competitive home loan options, this festive season is prompting many prospective buyers to evaluate real estate as a tangible wealth-creating asset.
Home Loan Rates: Comparing Top Banks
For buyers looking to make the most of this auspicious period, understanding current home loan rates is essential.
SBI currently offers regular home loans at interest rates ranging from 7.50% to 8.70%, while its Maxgain (OD) scheme carries rates between 7.75% and 8.95%. Home loan top-ups are available at 8% to 10.75%, and overdraft top-ups range from 8.25% to 9.45%. Loans against property are priced between 9.20% and 10.75%, and the YONO Insta Home Top-Up comes at 8.35%.
HDFC Bank’s home loan rates across all categories vary from 7.90% to 13.20%. ICICI Bank offers home loans up to Rs 35 lakh at rates of 8.75% to 9.40%, loans between Rs 35 lakh and 75 lakh at 8.75% to 9.55%, and loans above Rs 75 lakh at 8.75% to 9.65%.
Additionally, ICICI provides a special rate of 8.75% for borrowers with credit scores of 750 and above, valid until September 30, 2025.
Demand is also rising in tier-2 and tier-3 cities, driven by digital lending and affordable housing options, making this festive season an opportune time for buyers to carefully evaluate loan options, align them with long-term financial goals, and secure favorable terms.
Tax Benefits Make Home Buying Even More Attractive
Apart from festive timing, homebuyers can also benefit from tax incentives under the Income Tax Act:
- Section 24(b): Tax deduction up to Rs 2 lakh on interest paid for self-occupied property.
- Section 80C: Deduction up to Rs 1.5 lakh on principal repayment of home loans.
- Section 80EEA: Additional deduction up to Rs 1.5 lakh for first-time homebuyers meeting specified criteria.
These benefits, when combined with the auspicious timing of Dussehra and competitive interest rates, make this the ideal season for home investment.
A Festive Opportunity for Families
Buying a home during Navratri and Dussehra is more than a financial decision; it’s a celebration of new beginnings. For families across India, this season symbolizes hope, stability, and growth. With banks offering attractive home loan schemes and government-backed tax incentives, the opportunity to invest wisely and secure one’s future has never been better.
As the festivities culminate in Dussehra, many homebuyers are taking this auspicious moment to turn their dream of owning a house into reality.