🏡 How Much Salary Do You Need to Afford a House in Malaysia? (2026 Update)

By Eric Liew Properties

One of the most common questions I get from buyers:

“Eric, with my salary, how much house can I afford?”

Good question 👍Before choosing the unit, we must first check your affordability.

✅ 2026 Safe Affordability Rule (Malaysia)

Most banks in Malaysia calculate based on:

• Debt Service Ratio (DSR): Usually 60%–70% (depends on bank & income level)

• Recommended safe commitment for house: Around 30%–35% of your gross income

💡 My advice: Don’t max out. Leave buffer for living expenses and emergency fund. ⚠️ This is estimation only. Your eligibility depends on:

• Existing loans (car, PTPTN, personal loan, credit card)

• CCRIS & CTOS record

• Employment type (fixed salary / commission / self-employed)

If you want, I can help calculate your maximum loan eligibility first before you start viewing units.

📌 Other Important Costs in 2026 (Many Buyers Forget This)

Buying house is NOT just monthly installment.

1️⃣ Down Payment

• Normally 10%

• First home buyers can get 90% loan

• Some under Skim Jaminan Kredit Perumahan (SJKP) may qualify for higher margin financing

⚠️ If you cannot prepare 10%, think carefully.Emergency fund is very important.

2️⃣ Legal Fees & Stamp Duty

Usually around 3%–5% of purchase price.

3️⃣ Insurance (MRTA / MLTA)

Usually adds around RM100–RM250 monthly depending on loan size.

4️⃣ Maintenance Fee (Condo)

In Kuching market (2026):

• Normal condo: RM100–RM250/month

• Full facilities condo: RM250–RM500/month

  
  

Remember:Monthly commitment = Loan + Maintenance + Insurance

💬 Real Advice

Salary will slowly increase over time. But house price rarely go down.

The key is:

• Buy within your comfort level

• Don’t over-stretch

• Choose good location with future value

• Start early

• Keep some for Furniture and Renovation!

  
  

Starting is always the hardest.

But once you step in, everything becomes clearer.

If you want me to:

✔ Check your loan eligibility

✔ Compare bank packages

✔ Suggest units within your budget (Kuching area)

Just PM me.

Find your awesome real estate.— Eric Liew Properties 🏡