Which bank offers the lowest home loan interest rate in India in 2026?+
As of April 2026, SBI offers the lowest headline home loan rate at 8.35% for salaried borrowers with a CIBIL score above 780, followed closely by Bank of Baroda at 8.40% and HDFC Bank at 8.45%. Final rate depends on profile, loan amount, and prevailing repo rate.
Is it better to take a home loan from a public sector or private bank?+
Public sector banks (SBI, BoB, Canara) typically offer 10-40 basis points lower interest rates, while private banks (HDFC, ICICI, Axis) offer faster disbursal and better digital experience. If you optimise for EMI savings, choose a PSU bank; if you optimise for speed, choose a private bank.
What CIBIL score is needed for the best home loan rate?+
Most lenders publish their lowest rate only for borrowers with a CIBIL score of 780 or higher. Scores between 750-779 typically pay 15-25 bps more; below 750 the rate can rise by 50-100 bps or the application may be rejected outright.
Are home loan interest rates expected to fall in 2026?+
Analysts expect the RBI to hold or cut the repo rate modestly in FY2026, which should push home loan rates down by 25-50 bps over the year. Borrowers on floating-rate loans automatically benefit; fixed-rate borrowers may consider a balance transfer if the gap exceeds 50 bps.
Do home loans qualify for tax benefits under the new tax regime?+
Under the new regime (from AY 2024-25), the Section 24(b) interest deduction of Rs 2 lakh and Section 80C principal deduction of Rs 1.5 lakh are not available for self-occupied property. They still apply under the old regime and for let-out property under both regimes.