Hana’s ‘good housing’ loans rise in popularity

A “good housing” loan package offered by Hana Bank has been gaining popularity among consumers.

Called the “Hana Good Housing Lease Loan,” the package offers benefits for loan seekers such as a six-month waived-interest period for the recently unemployed. Those looking to rent an officetel, or studio apartment, as well as those who are looking for a half-loan are eligible for the program.

The loan package also offers bank-backed insurance claims, and compared to other loan packages, is relatively prerequisite-free, according to bank officials.

Standard key money loan packages offered by banks often require loan seekers to fulfill several requirements, such as a certain income level. Banks sometimes even consider the size of the rental space when deciding whether an applicant is eligible for a key money loan.

The loan offers applicants up to 60 percent of the lease deposit fees. Through the program, loan seekers can also borrow up to 200 million won, with yearly interest rates at around a middle-of-the-road 5 percent.

The bank has been offering the program since March 2011. It is a part of a series of loan packages that the bank has been offering for low-income families.

By Renee Park (renee@heraldcorp.com)