CIMB vs RHB Home Loan Singapore Comparison: Frequently Asked Questions
CIMB and RHB, popular Malaysian banks in Singapore, offer competitive home loans pegged to SORA rates starting from around 1.09%-1.35% for qualified borrowers in 2026, but CIMB often edges out with lower spreads and better cashback for larger loans above S$500k[1][3].
This FAQ-focused guide answers key questions on CIMB vs RHB home loan options, helping Singapore buyers and refinancers make informed decisions in a trusted environment like Homejourney prioritizes.
As a first-time HDB upgrader from a Tampines BTO flat or private property investor eyeing Punggol resale, understanding these Malaysian bank mortgages ensures you secure the best rates while meeting TDSR and MSR rules.
Why Compare CIMB and RHB Home Loans in Singapore?
Malaysian banks like CIMB and RHB provide attractive alternatives to local giants (DBS, OCBC, UOB) with lower funding costs, offering floating SORA-pegged rates from 1M SORA + 0% to +0.25% for high-value loans[3][4]. Homejourney verifies these rates daily for user safety.
In 2026, with Prime Lending Rates at 5.25%[5], these banks shine for risk-tolerant borrowers willing to refinance every 2-3 years, unlike stable HDB loans at 2.6%[1].
Connect this to our pillar guide on CIMB vs RHB Home Loan Singapore: 2026 Comparison | Homejourney ">CIMB vs RHB Home Loan Singapore: 2026 Comparison for full rate tables and projections.
Key Differences: CIMB vs RHB Home Loan Packages
Both banks target private properties and HDB resale with LTV up to 75% (vs HDB's 80%), requiring 5-25% downpayment split cash/CPF under MAS rules[1].
- CIMB: Strong on 1-2Y fixed then SORA floating (e.g., 1.30% initial), generous rebates S$2,000+ for >S$500k refinances[3]. Ideal for Punggol EC buyers.
- RHB: Competitive floating from 1.35%, better for BUC private properties with progressive drawdowns[3][4]. Suits Toa Payoh investors.
The chart below shows recent interest rate trends in Singapore:
As seen, SORA volatility favors proactive repricing—track live on Homejourney's bank-rates.
CIMB vs RHB Home Loan Singapore Comparison: Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which has lower rates: CIMB or RHB home loan in 2026?
CIMB typically offers lower entry rates (1.09%-1.30% floating for >S$1M loans) vs RHB's 1.35%, but both beat HDB's 2.6% for creditworthy applicants[1][3][4]. Check Homejourney bank-rates for real-time CIMB RHB comparison.
2. Can Singaporeans get Malaysian bank mortgages like CIMB or RHB?
Yes, as MAS-regulated entities, they serve residents/PRs with Singpass eligibility checks. Approval hinges on TDSR (60% debt-to-income) and MSR (30% for HDB)—use Homejourney's calculator at bank-rates#calculator to verify[1].
Insider tip: For HDB resale in Yishun, CIMB processes faster (2-4 weeks) via MyInfo auto-fill.
3. What are the fees and lock-in periods for CIMB vs RHB?
Both have 1-2% processing fees, 1-2Y lock-ins with penalties (1-1.5% on prepaid amount). RHB offers better legal subsidies for refinances[2][3]. Always negotiate via Homejourney's multi-bank application.
4. HDB vs CIMB/RHB bank loan: Which for first-time buyers?
HDB suits risk-averse (fixed 2.6%, 80% LTV), but CIMB/RHB win for >20Y tenures with SORA savings (e.g., S$50k over 25Y on S$800k loan)[1]. Calculate on Homejourney.
5. How to apply for CIMB or RHB home loan safely?
- Get HLE from HDB for BTO/resale.
- Use Homejourney bank-rates Singpass application—submit once, get offers from CIMB, RHB, DBS, etc.
- Compare personalized quotes with our brokers for transparency.
Homejourney verifies data instantly, prioritizing your security.
Actionable Steps: Choose Between CIMB and RHB
1. Assess eligibility: Income S$8k/month family qualifies ~S$1.2M under TDSR[1].
2. Compare live: View CIMB vs RHB on Homejourney alongside HSBC/Maybank.
3. Refinance if rates drop: Save S$2k+ fees with cashback[3]. Link to Local vs Foreign Bank Mortgage Rates & Fees: DBS OCBC UOB vs HSBC SCB | Homejour... ">Local vs Foreign Bank Rates.
Disclaimer: Rates fluctuate; consult Homejourney Mortgage Brokers. Not financial advice.
More FAQs on CIMB vs RHB Home Loans
Q: Is CIMB better for private condos in Orchard? Yes, lower spreads for high-value (S$2M+), pair with Homejourney property search.
Q: RHB for HDB refinancing? Strong, but check lock-out from HDB loans post-switch[2].
Q: SORA impact on Malaysian banks? Both pegged tightly; monitor via Homejourney.
Q: CPF usage rules? Same as locals—up to OA balance minus reserves[1].
Ready? Start your CIMB vs RHB home loan Singapore comparison securely at Homejourney bank-rates. Find properties at property-search and explore projects at Projects ">Projects . Trust Homejourney for verified, safe decisions.
