Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is set to formally unveil a new housing finance initiative under the Apna Ghar programme, aimed at expanding access to home ownership through long-term, government-backed loans.
The scheme will allow eligible citizens to secure housing loans ranging from Rs2.5 million to Rs10 million with a repayment period of up to 20 years, significantly reducing the burden of monthly instalments for middle- and lower-income households.
Loan Structure and Categories
Under the Apna Ghar programme, applicants may choose from four financing tiers:
- Rs2.5 million
- Rs5 million
- Rs7.5 million
- Rs10 million
The financing can be used to purchase either a 10-marla house or a 10-marla residential plot, providing flexibility for buyers at different stages of home ownership.
Also read: Over 367000 applications received for Punjab’s ‘Apni Zameen, Apna Ghar’ Scheme
The markup rate will be fixed at 5% for the first 10 years of the loan. After that period, a standard market-based markup will apply for the remaining decade.
Monthly Instalment Breakdown
According to official figures, the estimated monthly repayments are:
- Rs16,499 for a Rs2.5 million loan
- Around Rs33,000 for a Rs5 million loan
- Approximately Rs49,500 for a Rs7.5 million loan
- Nearly Rs66,000 for a Rs10 million loan
Minor variations in instalment figures have been noted across different program documents, but overall repayment costs remain consistent with the subsidised structure.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for financing under the Apna Ghar scheme, applicants must:
- Hold a valid CNIC
- Not already be burdened with existing loan liabilities
These conditions are intended to ensure that housing support reaches first-time or underserved borrowers.
Under the programme, the government will facilitate 90% financing, while applicants will be required to contribute the remaining 10% themselves. Importantly, there will be no upfront fees, advance payments, or traditional down payment requirements.
Loan Distribution and Oversight
Housing loans will be offered through a wide network that includes:
- Islamic banks
- Commercial banks
- Microfinance institutions
- House building finance companies
Applications will be submitted online, with final approval expected within one month.
Also read: Apni Zameen Apna Ghar: Eligibility criteria, application process for free plots in Punjab
Regulatory oversight will be jointly handled by the State Bank of Pakistan and the Pakistan Housing Authority Foundation.
Expanding Access to Home Ownership
The Apna Ghar housing package is designed to make property ownership more attainable by combining long-term repayment, subsidised markups, and government-backed financing. Officials believe the initiative will provide meaningful relief to citizens seeking to purchase modest homes or residential plots amid rising property and construction costs.
The prime minister is expected to formally announce the package later today.
