Your weight and health can be broken down into three categories:

• Body mass index (BMI)
• Waist diameter
• Risk factors for diseases and conditions linked with obesity

Body Mass Index (BMI)

Gain a healthy weight, reap the benefits

Even though BMI can be used for both sexes, it isn’t without its limits.

• It might overestimate body fat in sportsmen and people who possess a muscular frame.
• It might underestimate body fat in the elderly and people who have lost muscle.

Use the BMI Calculator to gauge your body fat level. The BMI score can be broken down such as follows:

It’s in the waist?

Checking your waist circumference helps you screen for potential health risks that may arise from being overweight and obese. Should most of your fat be contained at your waist compared to your hips, you’ll be at a significant risk for heart disease and type 2 diabetes. This risk rises exponentially for waist sizes higher than 35 inches for women or higher than 40 inches for men. To measure your waist precisely, stand and begin measuring the area over?your hipbones. Start measuring your waist after exhaling.

A guide on whether your BMI and waist diameter could put you at risk from obesity diseases can be found here. It’s best to know beforehand as it can help prevent any untoward medical conditions.

People who are overweight or obese are at a higher risk for heart disease and other ailments. These risk factors are:

• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• High LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol)
• Low HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol)
• High triglycerides
• High blood glucose (sugar)
• Family history of premature heart disease
• Physical inactivity
• Cigarette smoking

For people who are obese with a BMI (above or equivalent to 30) or overweight (BMI of 25 to 29.9) and possess two or more risk factors, it is imperative that you lose weight. It may not seem like much, but a small weight loss (in the range of 5 to 10 percent of your current weight) will work in your favor to lowering the risk of developing diseases connected with obesity.

Seek the advice of your doctor to determine whether you’re at a possible risk of developing potential obesity related issues and whether you need to lose weight. Your doctor will assess your BMI, measure your waist and other risk factors for heart disease.

The best bit? Even a marginal weight loss (that ranges between 5 to 10 percent of your current weight) will greatly lessen your chance from getting those diseases.

Contrary to popular belief, many everyday life math applications don’t actually require complex calculations or precise solutions. Should you need to measure an approximate length, but don’t have a measuring tape in sight, do note that you always have a trusty one nearby; your body. Yes, your ever dependable body can function as a quick length gauge should the need arise. Say goodbye to looking for that crumpled tape measure, and start measuring things your way.

The ever trusty hand: The average of your palm measures about 4 inches, or 10 centimeters.

Put your best foot forward: Your foot measures at about 12 inches in length.

Your forearm from elbow to fingertip: Your extended forearm measures about 1.5 feet. That’s 46 centimeters for you.

From nose to your fingertips: The space between from your nose to your fingertips when your arms are outstretched is around a yard (36 inches). A tried and tested measurement method back in the day; your grandmother may have used it.

The space of one complete stride: Also known as a pace, it measures around 58 inches, just short of 6 feet. Back in the Roman empire, they relied on this particular unit of measurement, you can too!

These substitute measurements are meant to be used as estimates and shouldn’t be taken as a precise measurement. To help you gauge a more accurate measurement with the use of your body is to know the width of your palm, the length of your feet and so forth. Through proper usage, you can start making more accurate measurements in the future. Whoever said you had to have a measuring with you at all times?

Give yourself a pat on the back for being a human ruler!

Through the ages, people have been utilizing their bodies as a means to measure length estimates. Now so can you!

Struggling to look for ways on how you can save your money? With the ever dire financial situation in Malaysia, you’re not alone. Which is why we have compiled five ways for you to make the most of your hard earned Ringgit. The following money saving tips are:

Nothing like a home cooked meal

Tired of eating outside and having to fork out your hard earned cash? Start making a concerted effort in preparing home cooked meals. Choose to have breakfast at home instead or pack it and bring your lunch to make the most of your savings. Avoid the temptation to eat outside and cook your own dinner instead. Apart from offering you massive savings over time, packing your own meals also brings health benefits with it. Double the satisfaction!

Monitor your spending

Yes, while it may be inconvenient to track down all your expenses on a consistent basis, you will be surprised at how the little spendings can snowball and amount to something substantial. Listing down your monthly expenses in a concise manner can give you an understanding on where the most cost heavy ones lie and how to work around on reducing it. To help you do that in an engaging manner, be sure to download the many budget apps that are available for both the App Store and Google App Store.

Be more thrifty, go with generic brands

Let’s face it; you don’t really need the most expensive household items to get the basics done. Essentials such as powder detergent, cooking oil and toiletries may vary quite differently in prices depending on brands but more often than not they are similar in quality. Start shopping smartly to get the most bang for your buck.

Make smarter, spending choices

Don’t give in to your shopping urges. Yes, deals and promotions may be ever aplenty in Malaysia but you should practice discipline when it comes to your spending. If it’s not a necessity, and not something that you actually need (don’t fool yourself) then choosing to say no would be the smarter choice. Just because an item may be on sale doesn’t mean you should get it. This is ever more essential as the current economic situation in our country isn’t improving; the cost of goods just keeps rising!

Cut Access Expenses

Dread the feeling of looking at your bank account only to see your savings ever dwindling? It doesn’t have to be that way. Avoid the temptation to watch every blockbuster or Happy Hour sessions that your colleagues are into. Choosing to stay in every now and then can work wonders in helping you save some much needed money. Have a look at your social habits and monthly expenses to see where you can make adjustments (gym membership, more affordable mobile plan) in order to really stretch your Ringgit.

Deciding to purchase a car is a rather long and time-consuming process as there are so many factors to consider. There’s the size, safety features, specifications, brand, design and perhaps the most important of all, the price. Taking all these factors into consideration, it’s small wonder that you feel a headache coming on when it’s time to make a decision. Here we have narrowed down a list of economical cars that are in the affordable range of RM24,000 to RM85,000 for those with numerous financial constraints.

Perodua Axia (from RM24,000)

Perodua Axia (Photo credit: perodua.com.my)

One of Perodua’s latest models to hit the market is the compact Axia which has a surprisingly spacious interior, an energy-efficient engine that’s eco-friendly and also comes with several safety features. While the premium model sets you back about RM44,000, it offers many upgrades compared to the baseline model such as a multimedia navigation system, leather seats that are semi-bucket and a sleek steering wheel wrapped with leather that comes with audio controls for a dynamic, fluid driving experience.

Perodua Myvi (from RM41,000)

Perodua Myvi (Photo credit: perodua.com.my)

The ever popular Myvi has been the best-selling car in Malaysia ever since its first launch in 2005 due to its budget-friendly price and space efficiency. Over the years, Perodua has been giving the Myvi innumerable facelifts and upgrades in order to provide users with a better driving experience. With its practicality, spaciousness, safety features and stylishly sporty look, it’s not hard to see why this car is seen almost everywhere on Malaysian roads.

Proton Saga (from RM33,000)

Proton Saga (Photo credit: carlist.my)

The Proton Saga from our very own home-grown car brand is definitely a crowd favourite due to its sedan size and pocket-friendly prices. This car allows you to commute from point A to point B effortlessly with a fuel-efficient engine that lets you get the most out of your vehicle. If the basic 1.3 models are not your cup of tea, the Proton Saga has a sportier 1.6-liter option with added features for a smoother, more spirited drive.

Proton Iriz (from RM42,000)

Proton Iriz (Photo credit: carlist.my)

A zippy little hatchback model, the Proton Iriz is designed for the fun-loving individuals who want a car that’s practical yet classy. Coming with all the necessary safety features and more, it is a vehicle that offers ultimate accident protection thus dramatically reducing the risk of injury to the driver and passengers. Equipped with modern technologies, this car is powerful, youthful and a vibrantly designed drive.

Kia Picanto (from RM55,000)

Kia Picanto (Photo credit: motoringresearch.com)

An ambitious, upbeat little car produced from the famous Korean brand, The Picanto comes with an impressive list of accessories and specifications all packed into one petite frame. Safety comes first with the Picanto as it is loaded with six airbags, Vehicle Stability Management, 4-disc brake system and Electronic Stability Control. All these makes the Picanto one of the best affordable cars in the market.

Mitsubishi Mirage (from RM59,000)

Mitsubishi Mirage (Photo credit: mitsubishi-motors.ca)

Produced by international Japanese brand Mitsubishi, the sporty Mirage is a great economical vehicle to invest in. Recently given an update in October 2015, it promises uncompromised safety, unbeatable comfort and a most pleasant driving experience. Perfect for urbanites, this 1.2-liter car sports an edgy body kit that will definitely turn heads on the road.

Honda Jazz (from RM 69,000)

Honda Jazz (Photo credit: honda.com.my)

The Jazz is easily the most reasonably priced Honda in Malaysia but don’t let its price tag fool you into thinking that it has subpar features. In fact, it has a unexpectedly roomy cabin with ultra-flexible seats that you can adjust to your preference. Loaded with a powerful 1.5-liter engine and superior safety equipment, this streamlined car certainly provides a great value-for-money proposition.

Honda City (from RM 71,000)

Honda City (Photo credit: honda.com.my)

Another economical car from Honda that is both aesthetically pleasing and practical is the City. Fitted out with a fuel-efficient 1.5-liter i-VTEC engine, you can do your part for a better environment as well. The Honda City lets you ride conveniently with a host of buttons and switches that provides you with greater control of the system.

Nissan Almera (from RM64,000)

Nissan Almera (Photo credit: carlist.my)

If bigger, sedan-like cars are more your style, a good option to consider is the Nissan Almera which is a B-segment car with sleek, elegant lines and premium upgrades. Utilizing advanced and innovative technology, sizeable interior and sophisticated finishing, this is the ideal car for those who craves more comfort for their vehicle.

Hyundai i10 (from RM51,000)

Hyundai i10 (Photo credit: carwow.co.uk)

This diminutive hatchback makes driving fun again with its colourful interior package and premium safety technology. Whiz around the city in this easy to manoeuvre compact car packed with above average features for a comfortable, convenient ride. Customers can choose between the 1.1 liter or 1.25 liter engine where both types work equally well at maximising fuel consumption to help you save on petrol costs.

Many people daydream about driving a lean, mean, fast supercars on the road but only the truly rich can afford to buy these head-turning vehicles. More than just a mode of transportation, these ostentatious automobiles come with an eye-watering price tag and the specifications to match. It has often been said that money cannot buy you happiness, but its better to be comfortable being miserable in an incredibly expensive car than on a bicycle. Often coveted and definitely lusted after by common citizens, the style, speed and luxury of these automobiles are the stuff of dreams.

Discounting classic vehicles that are auctioned off, these are some of the worlds most expensive cars that are recently sold to the rich, famous and powerful.

Maybach Exelero ($8 million)

Maybach Exelero (Photo credit: autoblog.com)

A unique masterpiece, this advanced machine is a concept supercar that was commissioned by Fulda Reifenwerke, the tyre manufacturer to test out their high-speed tyres. Inspired by Maybachs sleek sports car from the Thirties, the engine packs a punch with twin turbo V12. This powerful engine allows the car to reach the top speed of 350km/h and accelerate from 0 to 95 km/h in 4.4 seconds.

Koenigsegg CCXR Trevita ($4.8M)

Koenigsegg CCXR Trevita (Photo credit: koenigsegg.com)

There are only three units of this particular model in the world and one of them was bought by boxer Floyd Mayweather. One of the main reasons for its hefty price tag is due to its exterior finishing. Made out of resin filled with diamond dust, the paint is known as the Koenigsegg Proprietary Diamond Weave which literally makes the car shine like a diamond. Equipped with a 4.8-liter dual V8 engine, it runs at a top speed of 410km/h and goes from 0 to 95 km/h in just 2.9 seconds.

Lamborghini Veneno ($4.5 million)

Lamborghini Veneno (Photo credit: twitrcovers.com)

Another limited edition supercar is the Lamborghini Veneno which is an absolutely stunner that can reach a top speed of 350km/h. Currently there are only three units of this spectacular automobile produced that were especially built to celebrate their 50th anniversary. Powered by a robust 6.5-liter V12 engine, the car achieves 95 km/h in only 2.9 seconds.

Lykan Hypersport ($3.4 million)

Lykan Hypersport (Photo credit: homecartravelers.com)

If you’ve seen the epic action flick Furious 7, you would have spotted this sleek vehicle making a memorable appearance in the movie. The dynamic twin turbo flat-six engine performs marvelously, allowing drivers to reach the top speed of 380 km/h easily. Featuring sparkling diamonds in the headlights and scissor doors, one can see why this car is unforgettable.

Mansory Vivere Bugatti Veyron ($3.4M)

Mansory Vivere Bugatti Veyron (Photo credit: mansory.com)

The prestigious Bugatti Veyron is famed for their much coveted sports cars and the Mansory Vivere is no exception. A vehicle turned into a work of art, it is also touted to be one of the fastest cars in the world. This supercar whizzes by with a breath-taking top speed of 410 km/h, perfect for thrill-seeking speed aficionados.

Ferrari F60 America ($2.5M)

Ferrari F60 America (Photo credit: carscoops.com)

Coming with a convertible top, the F60 lets you feel the breeze in your hair as you drive by, if you’re one of the lucky few rich enough to purchase one of the 10 units built. Created to commemorate the Italian brands sixtieth year in North America, it has the color scheme of the Stars and Stripes decorated with classic racing regalia. Boasting a mighty 6.2 liter V12 engine, one can expect to reach 95 km/h in 3.1 seconds.

Lamborghini Reventon ($2 million)

Lamborghini Reventon (Photo credit: lamborghini.com)

With exterior styling inspired by the fastest airplanes, the Reventon was unveiled in 2007. Lamborghini produced only 20 models of the Reventon, which comes installed with a g-force-meter and three TFT LCD screens in the instrument panel. The dynamic 6.5-liter V12 engine ensures that drivers will accelerate to the top speed of 355km/h.

Aston Martin One-77 ($1.85 million)

Aston Martin One-77 (Photo credit: astonmartin.com)

This British brand has been made popular by the blockbuster spy series James Bond, creating an image of a dashing, sophisticated hypercar that is perfectly matched for a suave gentleman. The fastest car that Aston Martin has ever made, it achieves a maximum speed of 354 km/h with more than a little help from its formidable 7.3-liter V12 engine.

Pagani Huayra ( $1.6 million)

Aston Martin One-77 (Photo credit: astonmartin.com)

Used in the major motion picture Transformers: Age of Extinction, this Italian car proudly carries the Incan namesake of God of the Winds. Putting pedal to the metal brings this automobile from 0 to 95km/h in 3 seconds all powered by the twin turbo V12 engine. Decorated with an awesomely detailed interior and gullwing doors, this is one vehicle that car enthusiasts will salivate over.

Ferrari LaFerrari ($1.4M)

Ferrari LaFerrari (Photo credit: caranddriver.com)

The illustrious automakers original mild hybrid car, this supercar reduces fuel consumption by up to 40% proving that fast supercars can be environmental-friendly as well. Fitted with an electric motor, 6.3-liter V12 engine and supplemented by Kinetic Energy Recovery System, it supplies short bursts of extra power. Striking, speedy and sporty, the LaFerrari speeds up to 95 km/h in under 3 seconds and tops off at 350 km/h.

What is a Credit Score?

A credit score is how financial institutions rate your trustworthiness in order for them to decide whether or not to lend you money. There are several factors that go into determining your credit score such as the different amounts and types of loans you take on, how you utilize these loans, how well you’ve been managing your level of borrowings and your payment history. Your credit score is reflected in your credit report which is kept by Bank Negara Malaysia’s Credit Bureau. As of today, the borrowing details of about 9 million Malaysians are reported to the Credit Bureau and is updated daily by financial institutions through CCRIS (Central Credit Reference Information System).

How May I Know My Credit Score?

Your credit report can easily be obtained by presenting your NRIC at Bank Negara Malaysia’s headquarters and filling out forms at no cost. Bank Negara will only release your credit report to you. You are not able to request the credit report of others even if it is of the person you are to be the guarantor for. Revising your credit report is also advisable as there is a chance of human error in regards to updating your borrowing details through CCRIS.

Why Is A Good Credit Score Important?

To your bank, your credit score tells everything they need to know about you. Your credit report includes all of your basic details (name, IC, address, etc.) and a comprehensive record of your financial history. It records the date you open your first bank account, entire credit card history, every loan you’ve applied for, even tracking which ones were approved and denied.

From this report, financial institutions will decide how much they are willing to lend you, interest rate, repayment period and methods, or whether they’re willing to lend you money at all. This becomes important for things such as when you want to buy that car or take up the mortgage for a home. Being given low interest rates due a good credit score can save you a lot of money in your future.

Every bank in Malaysia has access to Bank Negara’s Central Credit Reference Information System (CCRIS). Information is current and updated almost instantly, meaning if you are denied a loan by one bank today, the other banks will already have this information when you try to approach them tomorrow.

How Can I Improve My Credit Score

Your payment track record is the most significant factor affecting your credit score. So paying in full and on time is the best way to improve your credit score. Having a long credit history also increases your trustworthiness. This tells the banks that you’re tested and proven, meaning for first time loan applicants, banks may not be as lenient in regards to your repayment plan and will be hesitant in giving you large amounts of credit. How well you manage and utilize credit provided to you also plays a role in determining your credit score. Maintaining a low balance or minimizing spending on your credit cards shows that you are responsible, thus, improving your credit score. Diversifying your credit portfolio by taking on different types of loans such as personal loans,  car loans and housing loans, also paints a picture of someone who is able to manage their finances well. Of course, this is only if you maintain a good payment track record.

	Ultra Exclusive Credit Cards - Perks of Being Ridiculously Rich Read More
	Why You Must Not Take Your Credit Score Lightly Read More

Applying for a home loan is often a long, drawn-out process that needs to be carefully deliberated. Whether you are a first timer looking to settle down in a cozy home or an experienced investor, there are many concerns that need to be considered in order to get the best deal out of your mortgage. It is vital that hopeful home owners are able to get the loan that suits their needs as this could make all the difference between helping you save your hard earned money or losing it.  As for investors, the right loan goes a long way towards facilitating them to build up a profitable property portfolio. In order to avoid any costly mistakes, we’ve put together a mini guide to help you make sure that you have the right financing for your property.

Getting a bigger amount than necessary

Housing Loan Amount (Photo credit: beefinancesavvy.com.au)

Banks usually hand out loans based on your credit history and will be able to gauge the maximum amount that you are able to borrow. However, this can be a risky trap to fall into as property buyers are inclined to go over their budget and borrow an amount that is more than what they need. Borrowers need to do proper research on the property that they wish to purchase and aim for the types that are in their price range. Establish that the loan amount is well within the budget range so that when it comes to making monthly repayments, you won’t be paying for unnecessary interest and putting a burden on your monthly cash flow.

Insufficient financial planning

Financial Planning (Photo credit: icicibank.com)

Buying a house is all about how you manage your daily finances. Do you have the means to go about your usual lifestyle while still managing to meet the monthly schedule? If the answer is yes, then you’re on the right track. Many people do not keep track of their expenses when their monthly salary is out which can lead to problems further down the road. Another example would be putting an unsatisfactory amount in to the deposit. If your savings only allows you to put in a small deposit, banks will usually evaluate you as a high risk loan and there will be additional charges incurred such as higher interest rates. The extra leverage that a bigger deposit gives is that you can have your pick of lenders which can offer you competitive packages.

Listening to your heart, not your head

Think Rationally (Photo credit: bharatestates.com)

Human beings are generally creatures controlled by their emotions and it is applicable to house hunting as well. There is an abundance of housing options readily available but you must learn to choose wisely and rationally. This is in essence a big investment that will directly influence your future so it will be hard not to be emotionally invested when making a decision. A good way to keep on track is to prioritize the most crucial factors that you want in your house. For example, you might only want a certain location and size of the house. Listing your specifications can help you to narrow down your selections and find the best fit for you. Engaging the service of professional services such as real estate agents which will do the legwork for you can be beneficial too.

No black-and-white proof

Mortgage Loan Agreement (Photo credit: slaneymortgages.com)

So you’ve discussed all the finer details and gotten a verbal agreement. The next step is to always make sure that you get the same agreement in writing. While verbal agreements may seem trustworthy enough, you never know when things may get ugly as it is widely known that verbal agreements are hard to prove. If you’re discussing on better terms for your loan, get your loan officer to make the necessary changes in the contract before signing. If you’ve requested for some replacements from the property agent, ensure they follow through and everything is stated in black-and-white. Sometimes there may be miscommunications between you and the bank or property agents and after the property is in your name, you will have to be responsible for all repairs and payments. After all, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Not enough research done

Researching Home Loans (Photo credit: dnaindia.com)

We can’t stress this enough. Doing due diligence on the property, the loan terms and even the bank itself will save you a lot of time and money in the long run. Once you educate yourself, you will have the leverage to negotiate for better loan terms, prices or even request for additional benefits to be added to the house.  Make time to fully understand all the minor details in your contracts and if you have doubts, make a note to ask for answers. Never sign documents that you are not sure about and always ask for clarification if there is anything that does not seem clear to you.

Ah the joys of owning a credit card. Billionaires and multi-millionaires have every reason to smile. They can travel around the world in private jets, get last-minute tables at Michelin star restaurants, be invited to the most exclusive parties, receive 5-star treatment at the most expensive hotels around the world, and all this will be done by a card they carry in their wallet.

In the pursuit of attracting extremely high net-worth clients, banks around the world have created credit cards that turn dreams into reality.

No Credit Limit

For the mega rich, going shopping with a credit card that has a spending limit of USD$50,000 is like running a marathon without shoes. Shopping for luxury handbags and diamond-encrusted jewelry can easily exceed most credit cards’ spending limits. Athletes and rappers such as Drake and Jay-Z are known to charge night club bills in excess of USD$100,000 to their credit cards.

High net-worth individuals also regularly make multi-million dollar purchases. In 2007, MasterCard and GE teamed up with world-renowned Sotheby’s Auction House to create the Sotheby’s World Elite MasterCard which provides art-collectors a new level of convenience in acquiring expensive works of art.

One of the largest known purchases made using a credit card was back in July 2014, when Chinese collector, Liu Yiqian bought an ancient Chinese ceramic cup, known as the Chicken Cup from the Chenghua Era (1465-1487), for a record HK$281 million (US$36 million). The reward points he received for paying with his American Express Centurion Card? 422 million American Express points or 28 million frequent flyer miles.

Concierge Service

We’ve all heard about credit cards reserved for the rich and powerful that provide 24/7 personal butler or concierge services. But what exactly is a concierge service?

A team of trained individuals that cater to all of your heart’s desires.

Well, almost all. As long as the request is not illegal and does not breach any strict confidentiality agreements, they will do everything in their power to make things happen. A “redditor” from the popular website, Reddit, shared some of his experiences as a concierge for holders of the elite American Express Black Cards.The list of requests include:

-????????? Last minute reservations at Michelin-star restaurants

-????????? Access to exclusive parties to rub shoulders with powerful people and celebrities

-????????? Acquiring NFL Superbowl tickets

-????????? Getting a Nintendo Wii for Christmas when it first launched, after it has been sold out

-????????? Organizing a picnic for a special someone

-????????? Picking up children from school

-????????? Closing down luxury retail stores to shop in private

These services come complimentary with American Express Black Card’s whopping USD$2,500 annual fee on top of the USD$7,500 registration fee. Not forgetting to mention the minimum of USD$250,000 you must have already spent on the American Express Platinum Card before being eligible for an invite to own a Black Card.

When speaking about the level of service provided by the invitation-only Dubai First Royale Card, First Dubai CEO Ibrahim al Ansari, said it best, “You ask for the moon and we try and get it.”

Yachts, Private Jets, and beyond!

Air miles and flight upgrades have become mainstream benefits of many credit cards. Ultra-exclusive credit cards take it to the next level by providing their clients memberships to private jet clubs and easy access to yachts all around the world.

The exclusive Merrill Accolades American Express Card entitles you to a Sentient Jet private membership. Members not only have access to a large fleet of private jets, but also allows them to have full or partial? ownership of these aircraft’s.

The BOSS ROYAL Luxuria Card takes travel perks to insane heights, literally. Upon receivership, cardholders are entitled to a complimentary flight aboard Virgin Galactic’s spacecraft to travel to outer space. One ticket for a Virgin Galactic flight is a staggering USD$250,000. Only 551 people have gone beyond the outer limits of Earth’s atmosphere and now the ultra-rich can too.

We can now say, the perks of owning an ultra-exclusive credit card are truly out of this world.

Buying a house is only the most significant financial decision of your life. If you’re not lucky enough to be born with a silver spoon in your mouth, chances are you will need to apply for a housing loan in order to get the keys to your dream house. In Malaysia, there are a plethora of options from numerous financial institutions to get the mortgage loan that you require. But how do you know which one is the most suitable loan for your needs? All the legalese, complicated terms and conditions is enough to make you confused. You need to make sure that you are making the right choice when shopping around for the right home loan for you. Otherwise, you could very well end up with an unsuitable plan that could be a hassle to sort out as mortgage loans are likely to have an extensive tenure. These are some key points that will steer you in the right direction for that all-important decision.

Home Loan Types

In Malaysia, there are two types of basic home loans available for interested home owners. Traditionally, there is the fixed term loan which involves you paying a fixed sum of money each month for the entire length of your loan period. The other type is known as the flexi-loan, which as the name suggests, offers you the flexibility of reducing your loan interest. The customer ties up a Current Account to the loan and the loan amount is deducted as scheduled while additional monies will be used to pay for the principal amount. This means the more you save in the Current Account, the less interest you will have to pay. As more banks are adopting a semi-flexi property loan, it is good practice to always ask the bank officer to explain all the fine prints and request for extra benefits as you will not be able to change lenders for at least 2-3 years.

Available Loan Amount (Photo credit: westernmortgageloan.wordpress.com)

Available Loan Amount

The amount that the bank is willing to loan to you varies from bank to bank. Usually the highest amount that a bank will offer is 90% of the property’s price thus the remaining 10% will have to come out of your own pockets. Seek for the bank that offers you a higher margin if you do not have sufficient cash flow to put up on your house. As a rule of the thumb, it is advisable to opt for a monthly payment of not more than one third of your monthly income. Take into account your other necessary expenses and commitments when planning your monthly budget.

Terms & Conditions (Photo credit: telegraph.co.uk)

Terms & Conditions

Always read carefully over the contract before agreeing to take up the loan. the two most vital deciding factors when looking for a home loan are the interest rates and lock-in period. It goes without saying that interest rates are the killer that adds more burdens to loans which is why you should always choose the bank that can offer you the lowest interest rate. Mortgage loans are no small amount and just a little hike in interest rate could mean a big difference in your monthly repayments. Lock-in periods are where a penalty is incurred if you decide to settle your full loan amount before the period ends. Ensure that you have the shortest lock-in period with the lowest penalty possible in case you decide to switch banks in between your loan tenure.

Additional Fees & Charges (Photo credit: frugalqueen.co.uk)

Additional Fees & Charges

Buying a property doesn’t mean that you only have to worry about paying off your mortgage loans every month. There are any number of sneaky hidden costs that you might not be aware of just waiting for the right moment to appear. Before you manage to get the keys to your house, you will need to pay for stamp duty and legal fees for the bank and lawyers to prepare an agreement for you. it is advisable to take out an insurance policy on your house seeing as it is the most expensive investment in your life. Other hidden costs include utilities, maintenance, and penalties which you have to prepare for.

Satisfaction with Bank (Photo credit: csbcorrespondent.com)

Satisfaction with the Bank

There is no shortage of financial institutions offering different home loans that are suitable for all kinds of customers. It is possible to request for a home loan that is tailored especially for your needs. With all these overwhelming choices, it can be hard for you to settle on a particular bank. Bear in mind that you will be doing business with them frequently for an extensive period, so you should choose a bank that you will feel comfortable with. Their service and level of convenience are key deciding factors on these so that all your loan processes in the future will go smoothly.