Is it worth buying housing on credit right now? Is it advantageous to take out a mortgage? Which bank should you turn to if you live in a small town like our Glusk?

What to choose: an apartment in a new building or on the secondary market? These and other questions about housing lending were asked by a correspondent of "Radzima" to Irina Porokhovnik, acting head of the retail sales department of TsBU No. 615 of Belagroprombank in Glusk.

• Do you think the housing lending market is open for buyers today?

— Now is exactly the time when you should consider buying a home on credit. Belagroprombank offers several programs designed for different life situations: new buildings, the secondary market, construction of your own house. We have programs with a grace period, with a fixed rate, with a deferral on the principal debt: that is, everyone can choose what suits them. The main thing is not to be afraid to come and discuss your situation. Often people think that a mortgage is beyond their means, but after a consultation it turns out that everything is quite realistic.

• Let's look at specific programs. What can you offer to those who dream of an apartment in a new building?

— For new buildings, we have a program with a term of up to 20 years. For the first three years, the rate is 11.5% per annum; this is a reduced rate that allows a family to make renovations and buy furniture and appliances after purchasing or building an apartment. Subsequently, interest for using the loan will be charged at the refinancing rate increased by 5.45 percentage points. Today that is 14.7%. We can finance up to 90% of the apartment's cost, and the client only needs to have 10% of the housing cost in their own funds. An important point: when calculating creditworthiness, the bank can take into account not only the income of the borrower himself, but also the income of his family members — spouse, close relatives. This makes it possible to increase the loan amount. Also, for the first 18 months, there is a deferral on the repayment of the principal debt; you will pay only interest.

— And what about the secondary market? Many people prefer ready-made housing, so as not to wait several years for construction to be completed and to immediately have the opportunity to live in their own apartment.

— For the secondary market, the bank offers a program with a maximum term of up to 20 years, where for the first 2 years the interest rate on the loan will be only 11.5% per annum, then 15%. There is also a deferment on the principal debt, six months (as well as 18 months, in the case of purchasing housing from a developer), which is convenient when after the purchase you need to do renovations or simply move in and settle down. Interest is paid monthly, and from the 7th/19th month, uniform repayment of the principal debt begins. Collateral requirements depend on the amount: for loans up to 200 thousand Belarusian rubles, it is possible to arrange without guarantors; over 200 thousand, guarantors and a mortgage are required. And again, family income is taken into account in the calculation, which helps increase the loan amount.

— In 2025, Belagroprombank launched a program with a fixed rate for 30 years. Tell us more about this new offering for the market?

— Yes, this is truly a new solution. The rate is fixed at 17.71% per annum for the entire term; this option will appeal to clients who prefer stability and want to be sure that nothing will change. The term is up to 30 years, which in itself reduces the monthly payment. Plus, interest is calculated in equal installments, allowing the client to plan their expenses. Repayment of the principal debt begins from the 19th month, meaning for a year and a half you pay only interest, and this time can be used for furnishing or building up a financial safety cushion.

All Belagroprombank loans can be repaid early without restrictions.

— Many people are intimidated by the mortgage application process: paperwork, certificates, long waits for a decision. How difficult is it at Belagroprombank?

— We have simplified the process as much as possible. A decision on an application is usually made within one business day. Money is transferred directly to the seller, developer, or contractor. You can pay for the loan via the mobile app, internet banking, ERIP, or at any bank branch. Early repayment is available without fines or restrictions. And an important point: you can submit an application even without a ready purchase and sale agreement, including directly through the mobile app. That is, you can find out how much you will be approved for, and only then start choosing an apartment with a clear understanding of your options.

• What advice would you give to those who are just starting to think about buying a home with a loan?

— First, don’t put off talking to the bank. Come in for a consultation, bring your income documents, and together we’ll calculate what suits your budget. Second, use your family income, don’t count only your own salary. Third, compare the terms: grace period, fixed rate, deferment — each condition has its own advantages, and we’ll help you choose the optimal option.

• Where can I get detailed information and consultation?

— Directly at Banking Service Center No. 615 in Glusk of Belagroprombank OJSC — come in, we’ll tell you everything and help with the documents. And, of course, you can call the short number 136 for a free consultation. Comprehensive information is also available on our official website www.belapb.by. All program terms and calculators for independent calculations are posted there.

A. AVTUKHOVA

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