How to buy housing on credit, explained by Belagroprombank

Radzima Newspaper

September 3, 2026 12:50

Is it worth buying housing on credit right now? Is it profitable 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 Radzima correspondent to Irina Porokhovnik, Acting Head of the Retail Sales Department of CBU No. 615 of Belagroprombank in Glusk.

— In your opinion, is the housing lending market open to buyers today?

— Now is precisely the moment when it is worth considering buying housing on credit. Belagroprombank offers several programs designed for different life situations: new buildings, the secondary market, building your own house. We have programs with a grace period, with a fixed rate, with a deferral on the principal: that is, everyone can choose what suits them best. The main thing is not to be afraid to come and discuss your situation. Often people think a mortgage is beyond their means, but after a consultation it turns out that everything is quite doable.

— 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, after purchasing or building an apartment, to do renovations and buy furniture and appliances. After that, interest on the loan will be charged at the refinancing rate plus 5.45 percentage points. Today that is 14.7%. We can finance up to 90% of the cost of the apartment, 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 themselves, but also the income of their family members — spouse, close relatives. This makes it possible to increase the loan amount. Also, for the first 18 months, a deferral on principal repayment is provided — you will only pay interest.

— What about the secondary market? Many 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%. Here there is also a grace period 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 starting from the 7th/19th month, equal repayment of the principal debt begins. Collateral requirements depend on the amount: when providing a loan of up to 200 thousand Belarusian rubles, it is possible to arrange it 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 in more detail, what is this novelty for the market?

— Yes, this is indeed 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. In addition, interest is calculated in equal portions, which allows the client to plan their expenses. Repayment of the principal debt begins from the 19th month, that is, for a year and a half you pay only interest, and this time can be used for settling in and building up a financial safety cushion.

All Belagroprombank loans can be repaid early without restrictions.

— Many are frightened by the mortgage process: paperwork, certificates, long wait for a decision. How complicated is it at Belagroprombank?

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

— What advice would you give to those who are just starting to think about buying housing on credit?

"First, don't put off talking to the bank. Come in for a consultation, bring your income documents with you, and we'll calculate together what fits your budget. Second, take family income into account, not just your own salary. Third, compare the terms: grace period, fixed rate, deferment — each condition has its own advantages, and we'll help you find the optimal option.

Where can you get detailed information and a consultation?

Directly at CBU No. 615 in Glusk of JSC "Belagroprombank" — come in, we'll explain everything and assist with the paperwork. And of course, you can call the short number 136 for a free consultation. Comprehensive information is also available on our official website at www.belapb.by. All program terms and calculators for self-calculation are posted there.

A. AVTUKHOVA

Photo by the author

Tags: Belarus, Glusk district, housing, credit"