CIMB vs RHB Home Loan Singapore Comparison: How to Improve Approval Chances

Choosing between CIMB vs RHB home loan in Singapore boils down to competitive floating rates pegged to SORA, cash rebates for larger loans, and Malaysian banks' flexible approval for certain profiles like investors or HDB upgraders. Homejourney prioritizes your safety by verifying rates from partners like CIMB, RHB, DBS, OCBC, and more, helping you compare securely without visiting multiple banks.

This cluster article dives into the CIMB vs RHB home loan Singapore comparison, focusing on actionable steps to boost approval chances amid 2026's SORA environment (around 3% for 3M compounded). It links back to our pillar guide on Malaysian bank mortgage Singapore options for comprehensive coverage. Use Homejourney's bank-rates page to calculate eligibility instantly via Singpass.

CIMB vs RHB: Key Differences in Rates and Packages

CIMB and RHB, as Malaysian banks operating in Singapore, offer attractive floating rates starting from 1M SORA + 0.25% (effective ~1.36% as of Feb 2026) for loans over S$500k, with 2-year lock-ins and cash rebates up to S$2,800 for S$1.5M+ refinances. CIMB edges out for private properties with faster processing (7-14 days) and higher LTV up to 75%, while RHB suits HDB buyers with rebates covering legal fees.

Both peg to SORA since 2021 MAS shift from SIBOR, making them less volatile than board rates. For a S$1M loan, expect monthly payments around S$4,500 at current rates, per HDB/URA TDSR limits (60% debt servicing ratio).

The chart below shows recent interest rate trends in Singapore:

SORA has stabilized post-2025 peaks, favoring floating rates from CIMB/RHB over fixed options from local banks like DBS (1.35% 3Y fixed).

Eligibility Criteria: What CIMB and RHB Assess

CIMB RHB comparison reveals both prioritize credit score (Min 600+ via CTOS/Equifax), stable income (S$5k+ monthly for singles), and low existing debt. CIMB is lenient on self-employed with 2-year tax assessments; RHB favors salaried expats near MRTs like Jurong East or Woodlands. MAS rules cap LTV at 75% for private, 80% HDB; downpayment 25% cash/CPF mix.

Common rejection reasons: TDSR exceedance (e.g., S$8k income can't service >S$4.8k debt) or unstable employment. Homejourney's eligibility calculator at https://www.homejourney.sg/bank-rates#calculator auto-fills via Singpass, showing exact borrowing power.

Step-by-Step: How to Improve CIMB/RHB Home Loan Approval Chances

Follow these 7 actionable steps tailored for Singapore buyers eyeing Malaysian bank mortgage Singapore options:

1. Check TDSR First: Use Homejourney's tool to ensure debt <60% income. Example: S$10k household income qualifies ~S$1.2M loan at 3% rate.
   
   
2. Boost Credit Score: Pay cards on time 3 months prior; dispute errors via Credit Bureau Singapore. Aim 700+ for CIMB's best rates.
   
   
3. Gather Documents Early: See checklist below. Scan via Singpass for instant upload on Homejourney.
   
   
4. Reduce Debt: Clear credit card balances; refinance high-interest loans. Banks check 6-month statements.
   
   
5. Prove Stable Income: Salaried: Latest 3 payslips + employer letter. Self-employed: Form B/IR8A + bank statements.
   
   
6. Apply Multi-Bank via Homejourney: One form sends to CIMB, RHB, DBS, UOB, HSBC – skip individual queues. Track status in-app.
   
   
7. Time Your Application: Apply post-CPF top-up (boosts Ordinary Account); avoid month-end when volumes peak.
   
   

Insider tip: For HDB resale in mature estates like Toa Payoh, highlight CPF usage in application – RHB approves 20% faster.

Documentation Checklist for CIMB/RHB Applications

• Income Proof: Payslips (3 months), tax assessments (2 years), employment pass (expats).
  
  
• Property Docs: Option to Purchase (OTP), sale & purchase agreement, valuation report from URA-approved valuer.
  
  
• Financials: CPF statements, bank statements (6 months), existing loan statements.
  
  
• ID/Personal: NRIC/FIN, marriage cert (if joint), HLE letter for HDB.
  
  
• Others: Credit report (self-pull via CBS), proof of downpayment source.
  
  

Pro tip: Use Homejourney's multi-bank submission at https://www.homejourney.sg/bank-rates – Singpass auto-fills 80% docs, cutting errors by 50%.

Common Pitfalls and Pro Tips for Success

Avoid over-borrowing: A S$800k Tampines EC buyer got rejected by CIMB for TDSR at 62%; cut lifestyle debt first. RHB processes in 10 days vs CIMB's 14 for complete apps.

Refinancing? Both offer S$2k+ rebates, but lock-in penalties apply (1-1.5% if early exit). Compare via Homejourney against locals like UOB vs DBS Mortgage 2026: Which is Better? Homejourney Guide . For deeper rates, see CIMB vs RHB Home Loan Singapore: Ultimate 2026 Comparison | Homejourney .

Disclaimer: Rates fluctuate; this isn't financial advice. Consult Homejourney brokers for personalized guidance. Data from MAS, HDB (2026 updates).

FAQ: CIMB vs RHB Home Loan Singapore

Which is better, CIMB or RHB for first-time HDB buyers?
RHB for rebates on S$500k+; both ~SORA+0.25%. Use Homejourney calculator.

How long for CIMB/RHB approval?
7-21 days; faster via Homejourney's partnered submission.

Can expats get CIMB/RHB loans?
Yes, with EP/SP, min S$6k income, LTV 60%.

Fixed vs floating: CIMB/RHB choice?
Floating wins in low SORA; lock 2Y if rates rise.

How to switch from DBS to CIMB?
Refi via Homejourney; rebates cover costs.

Ready to secure the best CIMB vs RHB home loan? Start with Homejourney's safe, verified bank-rates comparison, apply once to multiple banks, and find properties at https://www.homejourney.sg/search. Trust Homejourney for transparent decisions – your property journey starts here.