Comparing housing loans
Fixed or variable rate, effective interest, fees and currency — what really makes a loan cheaper.
The cheapest-looking monthly payment is not always the cheapest loan. These are the points to compare.
Fixed or variable interest
- Fixed: the payment stays the same for the agreed period — easy to plan, usually a little more expensive at the start.
- Variable: follows a reference rate and can rise or fall. Check how it is calculated and how often it changes.
- Mixed: fixed for the first years, then variable — popular, but plan for the payment after the fixed period ends.
Effective interest rate
The effective interest rate includes the nominal rate plus the costs of the loan. Banks must state it, and it is the fairest number for comparing offers of the same amount and term.
Currency
Loans with a euro currency clause are paid in denars, but the amount owed follows the euro exchange rate. If your income is in denars, a loan in denars removes that exchange-rate risk.
Fees and conditions
| What | Ask |
|---|---|
| Processing fee | One-off amount or percentage? |
| Valuation | Who orders it and what it costs |
| Insurance | Which policies are required, and can you choose the insurer? |
| Account | Monthly fees for a required account or card |
| Early repayment | Is there a fee, and how large? |
Total cost
Multiply the monthly payment by the number of months and add the one-off fees. That is what the loan really costs you.
Last updated October 5, 2026