From the youngsters to the elderly: mortgages are a solution for everyone

Interview with Marco Ziguri, CEO of Toscano Mutui

Today we are talking about mortgages. The situation is certainly favorable with the new reduction in rates on new applications to 3.09% in January. Have you seen an increase in applications?

"The decrease in interest rates is an incentive for buyers, especially at this time when we have seen a drop in rates, particularly variable rates, compared to the last three years. It is also a favorable situation because many have been able to secure monthly payments that are equal to or even lower than their rent, especially compared to those in large cities. In addition, banks are continuing to favor the green sector, offering additional discounts compared to standard products."

A mortgage is a solution chosen by many when buying a home. How important is it to support the customer not only in the purchase but also in choosing the most suitable financing?

“If the customer has not yet identified the property, it would be preferable, in their interest, to proceed with an income assessment, facilitating both the closing time of the transaction and the possibility of obtaining a more discounted price, given the certainty that this can provide to both the real estate agent and the owner.”

Is it true that more and more customers are choosing to buy rather than rent?

"Absolutely. More and more people, faced with the difficulty of finding new rental properties or extremely high rents, are considering buying a property even if they were not previously motivated to do so. Especially in large cities, the choice between buying and renting has disappeared: with rents so high, buying is definitely more advantageous."

Based on your experience, who are the people most likely to apply for a mortgage? Will it be easier for them now to access one and therefore buy a home?

"Actually, we have a very diverse clientele. From very young people who take advantage of the under-36 guarantee funds still in place to older people who sell in order to purchase different solutions based on their renewed housing needs. It is also interesting to note that purchases of bare ownership are on the rise. As with purchasing, it is possible to apply for a mortgage and place a lien on the property with the seller's authorization, who still retains a real right to the property."

Not just mortgages: there are also other financing options that can help with the purchase and renovation of the property. What are they?

“Personal loans, including those for significant amounts depending on the type of customer; salary-backed loans for civil servants, employees of large companies, and pensioners; cash loans where customers purchase properties that are not registered as dwellings but are in fact homes.”