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🏡 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: RM200–RM500/month

  • Full facilities condo: RM600–RM1,200/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


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 🏡

 
 
 
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