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ANNOUNCEMENT: HC Mutual Annual

Post author By bcddev
Post date July 8, 2020
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ANNOUNCEMENT: HC Mutual Annual Stockholders’ Meeting

July 8, 2020 | by HC Mutual

WHO

Stockholders of record at the close of business on June 30, 2020

WHEN

July 29, 2020 (Wednesday), 2:00 PM

WHERE

Board Room Level 26
Insular Life Corporate Centre
Insular Life Drive, Filinvest Corporate City
Alabang, Muntinlupa City

Meeting Agenda:

Call to order
Certification of Notice and Quorum
Approval of the Minutes of the previous Annual Stockholders’ Meeting
Annual Reports
Ratification of all Acts and Resolutions of the Board of Directors and Management
Election of Members of the Board of Directors
Appointment of External Auditor and Fixing of its Remuneration
Amendment of Articles of Incorporation (AOI) and By-laws
to change the corporate name
Other matters
Adjournment

Only stockholders holding common shares are entitled to vote during the annual meeting. You may download documents pertaining to Corporate Governance by clicking here.

If a stockholder is unable to attend personally but would like to be represented at the meeting, he or she must accomplish a Proxy Form to be submitted on or before July 17, 2020 to:

Corporate Secretary
26th Floor Tower 1 Insular Corporate Centre
Alabang, Muntinlupa City, Metro Manila

Stockholders who cannot physically attend may instead participate in the annual meeting by joining the online video conference via Zoom. The meeting link will be sent after pre-registering.

Pre-registration is required to attend.
To pre-register or inquire, please email callcntr@homecredit.com.ph or call (63) 917 883-6970.

HOME BUYING 101: A Guide to Buying your First Home

Post author By bcddev
Post date July 6, 2020
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HOME BUYING 101: A Guide to Buying your First Home

July 6, 2020 | by HC Mutual

Part 1: House shopping

What to look for in finding the perfect first house for you

Buying your first home is not something you can rush into. We understand that it is an important milestone—something to show as proof of financial responsibility and capability, a rite into full adulthood, as it is. But this is all the more reason to take your time. Buying a house, especially for the first time, is a big commitment that takes a lot of work and preparation. It can be a smart move for the long term, but only if you fully understand what you’re getting into.

This is the first part of a series of our complete guide to help you buy your first home and reach an important milestone in your life—and ensure that it will be a step towards a good future.

How do I know if I’m ready?

This is the first, and probably one of the more difficult questions in starting your journey as a first time homeowner. While there is much to think about, you can start here.

Step 1: Ask yourself if it’s time for you to buy a home
We get it. Achieving milestones at work, thinking of your age, and grappling with peer (and family) pressure can be pushing you to consider buying a house now. But why do you really want to buy a house? The only reason that matters is if you are ready to be a homeowner, and ready to commit to everything that it entails—psychologically and financially. (If you are feeling anxious about “burning money” paying rent, think of it this way: they are both ways to have a place to live, each with their own pros and cons.)

Step 2: Ask yourself how you can afford a house
A home loan (or mortgage) is not something to be taken lightly. It is a commitment that takes 15 to 30 years. Before you even consider buying, you would have to have good credit, a steady income, and a sizable amount of cash for down payment which can range from 10% to 40% of the price tag. On top of that, there’s also the closing cost to take into consideration, which can run from 1.5% to 3.5%. Research financing options available to you and look at which fits. The KayaMo Home Loan is specially designed for first time home buyers; HC Mutual also looks at your current credit standing, not your history, when you apply for a loan.

Try a home loan calculator or consult a financial advisor to see if you can afford a home (or how much home you can afford) given your income and credit score, versus different loan term options and the down payment amount you are able or willing to cash out.

Step 3: Start with your dream house—and work backwards
Having an ideal “dream” home is just as important as thinking realistically about being able to get it. The key to finding the sweet spot is to separate your needs and wants in a house. Understanding what’s truly important to you can help you compromise based on your budget. Here are some things to consider:

Basic requirements (e.g. size (sqm), number of bedrooms and bathrooms)
Location and accessible amenities
Structural features (e.g. no. of stories, basement and/or garage, ventilation)
Exterior and interior features (e.g. pool, garden, flooring type, accessibility features)

Tips for shopping for your first home

Once you have decided that you are ready to own a house, then it’s time to look at your options.

1. Pick the right type of house for you
What kind of future are you seeing in this house? Perhaps you are looking to start a family and want a nice yard and ample space in a single detached home. But if you want easier maintenance and extra amenities and perks (and if your lifestyle can support the extra cost and less space), then you might want to consider a condo or a townhouse.

2. Check the neighborhood
Remember, this will be your home for a good chunk of your life, so you need to make sure that the neighborhood you pick will be a good fit for you.

Look up safety and crime statistics. This is a given, especially if you are planning to start a family. Go around and talk to the barangay or local enforcers to get a good picture of the security of surrounding areas.
Map out the available amenities. What do you need near you? Look for the nearest hospitals and clinics, grocery stores, pharmacies, churches, train and bus stations, parking spaces, etc.
Research nearby schools. Even if you don’t have (or are not planning to have) kids, this affects home value in the long term.
Visit the area or drive down through the neighborhood at different times of day so you can assess the traffic, activity, and noise in the area. Drive or commute to or from the location to assess how accessible it is and how long it takes to go to work or school. Transportation also factors into your living expenses.

3. Stick to your budget
Your pre-approved loan amount should be the ceiling when you’re house shopping and comparing prices. Aside from buying the house, you have to consider how much it costs to move into that house and live in it. In general, look at property valued less than your ceiling to make room in your budget for homeownership expenses such as:

Bills and utility payments
Home insurance
Maintenance and general upkeep of the home (e.g. paint, plumbing, etc.)
Emergencies (such as broken appliances)

It is important to consider these monthly and periodic expenses especially right after buying the house as your finances dip and shift drastically. For this crucial moment, HC Mutual offers the KayaMo Saver’s Plan to help you build up your savings and borrow against it when you need it for repairs and improvements in the future (you can usually expect these expenses within the first 5 years of moving into your new house).

Ultimately, being firm with your budget will save you from getting stuck for years paying a mortgage you can’t afford, and not being able to build your savings as a consequence.

Quick Tip!

If you’re buying from a seller and you’ve fallen in love with a house, you may be tempted to bid high at once to ensure that you win. Don’t. As long as you shop within your budget, you can give yourself some wiggle room to bid higher only if needed.

Lastly, find a good agent that you get along well with and discuss your questions and concerns comfortably. Someone who is skilled, motivated, and knowledgeable on your side is indispensable in finding the right home just for you.

Next in this series:

Part 2: Getting your finances in order
Saving and preparing to buy your first home

Part 3: How to avoid common home buying mistakes
General tips and how-to’s of being a smart first-time buyer

Digital Money Management: Know-Hows and Tips

Post author By bcddev
Post date June 30, 2020
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Digital Money Management: Know-Hows and Tips

June 30, 2020 | by HC Mutual

In recent years, we have seen a steady rise of online stores, mobile banking institutions, and digital payment gateways in the Philippines. Now, with the global pandemic, there has been a stronger push for online and cashless systems for shopping, payments, and banking. We understand that this sudden pressure to make the switch can cause fear and doubts—but we are here to help you. In this guide, you can learn how to make the best out of your digital transactions and guarantee your online safety.

How can digital money management help you?

If you’re still considering whether or not going digital is worth it, take a look at how you can benefit from online transactions:

Increase financial mobility and accessibility – In the middle of the nationwide community quarantine, transacting online can help you manage your budget, pay your bills, buy groceries, and send extra funds to your loved ones anytime—in the safety and comfort of your own home.
Faster and more flexible services – With more businesses tailoring their operations to remote transactions, you can expect a wider range of online stores to choose from, quicker turnovers, and more customer-focused services. HC Mutual, for example, offers an auto-debit scheme to our members for a more convenient and stress-free saving experience.
Keep better track of your finances – Every payment, purchase, and transfer you make digitally is recorded, itemized, and sent to your email and phone, giving you better insight and control over your monthly budget.

How to get started—the smart way

With the wealth of digital money management apps and payment methods out there, figuring out your first steps can get confusing. Let us make your transition to online transactions easier with these tips:

Set goals and objectives – What made you decide to go digital? Determining the reason behind your switch can help you assess what services you need to consider and how you can narrow down your list. Do you need faster fund transfers, better budget tracking, or more payment options?
Research your options – The best decisions are made by being well-informed. Check out different money management tools and online payment methods. Ask around for reviews on security and performance and compare your options to find out the best fit for your needs.
Apply for a credit card – Having your own card is great for your credit score, and is a good avenue for fast and secure online transactions. Most services accept major credit cards, and are quick to authorize your payments. Unlike debit and cash payments, refunds are also easier with a credit card! All you have to do is to call your bank to cancel a transaction.

While credit cards can easily enable your spending habits, it’s best to use it mainly for travel and emergencies only to avoid going over budget. Your card should help you gain more financial mobility, not hold you back with heavy monthly payments and interest charges.
Consider reloadable prepaid cards – Ready to test out cashless transactions but still hesitant to use your credit card? You can begin with reloadable prepaid cards. Simply reload your balance and use it as you would a credit card. While not as flexible, prepaid cards give you control over your spending. Now you have a convenient, controlled way to shop or pay bills online.

Most prepaid cards don’t require a bank account to add funds, and instead you can top-up through authorized payment centers. It functions similarly to a debit card, where you can only spend the amount you currently have in your account.
Check out mobile payment apps – Focusing on security and convenience, mobile payment apps were made for safer and faster cashless transactions on your phone. Most forego additional fees and do not require you to connect a bank account. Like prepaid cards, all you have to do is load it with the amount you need—and you’re good to go!

Set spending limits – With exciting new ways to shop and a one-tap checkout process, you may find yourself spending more than planned. Review your budget and set a new limit on your monthly expenses. It’s also advisable to set aside separate funds for cash-only transactions. Going digital is extremely convenient; however, you still need cash for emergencies and utilities that aren’t covered by online payments.

Quick Tip!

You don’t have to stick to just one online payment and management platform. Shops, utilities, and bills often have their own preferred payment methods and gateways. To make the most out of your digital transactions, it’s best to have more than one cashless payment tool at the ready. More options, better financial mobility.

Ensuring safe transactions

Let us help you ease your worries when it comes to transacting online. Here are our tips on what to look out for to guarantee your safety and security.

Protect your password and data – Never share your account details with anyone, and always make sure that no one can see your phone whenever you log in. This is especially important for your OTPs (One-Time Passwords), credit card numbers, and account PINs. To be extra careful, avoid using public computers and public WiFi connections when making your transactions. If using a public computer, make sure to log out all of your accounts after you’re done.
Always check your records and bank statements – Make sure that everything listed are products and services that you actually purchased. Review each item and check if the price matches the amount you paid. If there are discrepancies or inconsistencies, call your bank or merchant right away.
Wait for the confirmation message – Websites, apps, and online stores will always send messages to your phone or email to notify you of a completed transaction. Some messages may arrive a few minutes after, so wait for it to avoid double payments. As an extra measure, check the vendor and save their contact details in case you may need to contact them.
Verify your emails and text messages – Before clicking on any link or confirming payments, make sure that the messages you receive from businesses and financial institutions are authentic. Check the sender number or email address, and check for errors or typos. For credit card holders, official entities will also have the last four digits of your card number, and will never ask you to complete it for them unless you call first.

If you suspect a fake message or email, verify it by calling official hotlines or by doing a quick search of the sender’s details online. It’s always better to be safe than sorry!

Make sure the website is secure – Does it use “https://” in its URL? Do you see an icon of a lock beside the link? These are the first two things to check before you enter your payment details. Transact and enter your card or payment details only on official and secure websites.

As our country continues to adapt to our new normal, we can expect even more changes. We understand that this transition can be
stressful at first, but as long as you remain vigilant with your information, your journey to digital money management will be a safe,
beneficial, and smooth-sailing one.

Understanding the basics of credit

Post author By bcddev
Post date June 23, 2020
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Understanding the basics of credit

June 23, 2020 | by HC Mutual

If you’re planning to apply for a loan soon, it’s the perfect time to learn more about credit. Achieving your financial goals begins with understanding the ins and outs of financial mobility and preparedness. In this article, you get to know the basics of credit scores, and how a good credit standing can help you and your family reach your dreams.

What are credit scores and
why are they important?

Your credit score is one of the factors that many financial institutions and banks look at to assess your eligibility to borrow and your capacity to pay back loans. The higher it is, the more likely you are to get approvals, better offers, lower interest rates, and more flexible payment terms. People with high credit scores are given these rewards to encourage good credit behavior, and to nurture a mutually beneficial partnership that paves the way for bigger financial opportunities.

What factors affect your credit score?

Upon your application, lenders will tap a credit bureau to get your credit report and score. These credit agencies will then use different scoring model softwares to make the computation. To help you get an idea of how they can assess your credit, here are the key factors to consider:

Past loans – Have you ever applied for a loan? What types did you apply for? If you were approved, how much did you borrow?
Payment history – Have you paid all your loans on time? Did you miss any months? Do you have any outstanding bills?
Open accounts – Do you have active savings and checking accounts? Aside from your savings account, you may need to open checking accounts for loans that require repayment through post-dated checks. Having well-managed accounts in different banks is a good habit that can help your credit score and establish your credibility to a range of financial institutions.
Inquiries – Each time you apply for any financing program, the lender’s request for your credit report will be put on record, and having too many may lower your credit score. Be sure that you really want or need the loan, and can follow through with it, before applying.

Keep in mind that all credit checks should be done with your express consent and signed authorization.

What differentiates credit score, report, and history?

Your credit history is a record of how you’ve handled your debts, payments, and credit throughout the years. On the other hand, a credit report is a comprehensive summary of your credit history that outlines all your transactions, loans, monthly payments, and balances. It also includes personal information like your name, address, occupation, TIN, and SSS/GSIS number.

Your credit report is what credit bureaus use to calculate your credit score.

How can you build good credit?

Keep your payments on time – Banks and financial institutions look at your payment history to evaluate your capacity to pay back your loan. Being late on these monthly payments even just once or twice will damage your credit score, especially if this happens two years prior to your application.

When you apply for a loan at HC Mutual, we look at your credit standing at present—your past records and payment history will not affect approvals.

However, paying in “a timely manner” does not mean that it is always advisable to clear off your loans too quickly. Lenders are looking for good credit history and creditor behavior. You can establish your discipline and trustworthiness better by being consistent with your payments over time. If you really want to settle your loan early, we advise to pay it within 6 to 12 months.
Borrowing is not always bad – While it’s good to pay in cash and to free yourself from debt, applying for a loan or credit card can boost your credit score. A lengthy but well-managed credit history can help you get approval for bigger loans and credit card limits.

Avoid overspending – If you own a credit card, try your best to stay within your credit limit. For the best results, spend only up to 30% per month.
Keep track of your accounts – If you have a savings and checking account, be sure to always keep them at their required maintaining balance. Avoid overdrawing to prevent difficulties in your next application and to avoid any bouncing checks, which can lead to both financial and legal repercussions. By exhibiting good creditor behavior and care in maintaining your accounts, you build trust with banks and other financial institutions for future credit.
Slowly pay off your debt – Clearing off outstanding dues doesn’t have to happen overnight. By taking doable steps to pay off your debt, you can improve your credit score and enjoy better financial wellness for the long-term.
Take it one step at a time – Having multiple active loans and credit cards at the same time may hinder your credit score, and may be seen as being too eager when it comes to credit. These can also be difficult to manage simultaneously when faced with unexpected expenses and personal emergencies. Choose which loan or credit card fits your budget best, and apply for the next one only when you really need it.

We understand that there may be circumstances that could unavoidably damage your credit standing. But you don’t have to worry—this is not the end of your financial goals. You can rebuild your credit history and fix your credit score. As you do so, you have the opportunity to plan out your finances more effectively, start building your savings, and maintain consistent improvement towards the future.

Source: CNN Philippines, Credit Information Corporation (CIC), iMoney PH, Moneymax

For First-time Home Buyers: Property Fees and Taxes

Post author By bcddev
Post date June 15, 2020
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For First-time Home Buyers: Property Fees and Taxes

June 15, 2020 | by HC Mutual

Saving up for your first home? As you plan your budget, keep in mind that there are fees that have to be settled before and after closing the deal. To help you prepare for this major milestone in life, we’ve made a list of the added costs and common taxes when buying property.

Reservation Fee
This ensures that the home you’ve been eyeing is taken off the market and reserved under your name. Reservation fees vary depending on the value of the property, and may sometimes be deducted from your down payment total. Some developers and sellers may set reservation fees ranging from Php 5,000 to Php 25,000 or higher.

Documentary Stamps Tax
Tax on papers, documents, and agreements that prove the acceptance, sale, and transfer of property ownership from the seller’s name to yours. The DST is 1.5% of either your home’s selling price, fair market value, or zonal value, whichever is higher.

Transfer Tax
Even when you’re buying a brand-new home, you still need to pay this tax to transfer home ownership to your name. Transfer tax varies depending on your location, and may range from 0.5% to 0.75% of the property’s price, fair market value, or zonal value (whichever is higher).

Keep in mind that this tax is paid to the Local Treasurer’s Office. You only owe transfer tax to the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) if the property was donated to you.

Notary Fee
To guarantee the authenticity of your transaction, the Deed of Absolute Sale should be notarized. Fees range from 1% to 1.5% of your chosen home’s price.

Title Registration Fee
When this fee is due, you know that you are only a few days away from owning your first home. The title registration fee is paid to officially list the property’s title under your name. This is usually set at 0.25% of the selling price, fair market value, or zonal value of your home, whichever is higher.

Real Property Tax
You might know this tax as amilyar, a fee paid to your Local Government Unit each year. In Metro Manila, the regular rate is 2% of your home’s total assessed value (also referred to as taxable value). 1% is taxed for properties in provinces.

Home and Life Insurance
Insurance companies, banks, and financial institutions provide different packages. Before choosing one, get to know the full details of what they are offering you. Most lenders carry fire insurance; however, it’s best to opt for more comprehensive coverage. Consider getting fire and water insurance to include acts of god, vandalism, and more. Investing in extra protection can get you and your family through unexpected moments and give you peace of mind.

Some entities also offer discounted fees for life insurance, while others include them as a loan benefit. For instance, the HC Mutual KayaMo Home Loan covers 1-year Accidental-Life Insurance worth Php 500,000.

The list of fees and taxes may seem overwhelming, but it pays to be an informed home buyer. By understanding what you need to factor into your budget, you can decide on a home that perfectly fits your goals and financial capacity.

Note: Fees and taxes vary depending on your property and financing program.
Article sources: Lamudi, My Property PH, Bureau of Internal Revenue

Financial Plans: Basics and Know-Hows

Post author By bcddev
Post date June 8, 2020
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Financial Plans: Basics and Know-Hows

June 8, 2020 | by HC Mutual

A financial plan is an evaluation of your income, budget, and expenses—an actionable guide to achieving your goals. While many people find this intimidating, you can create one easily by understanding how it works and how it can benefit you. Take it one step at a time and work at your own pace.

Let us help you get started by breaking financial planning down to the basics.

The building blocks of a solid plan.
Before you sketch out your plans for the future, here are the key terms and financial components to learn and consider:

Monthly budget – Track your spending and allocate the right amount to your living expenses, utilities, food, rent (if any), and travel costs. Check out our guide to budgeting here.
Savings – Starting on your savings early can help you grow financially, and ensure a comfortable life for your family. The KayaMo Saver’s Plan makes this easier with its salary deduction scheme and flexible payment terms.
Debt management – It’s ideal to include steps to paying off debt and dues in your financial plan. Review your monthly budget and consider what expenses can be removed or cut down.
Emergency funds – As we face unprecedented times, it is advisable to have financial safety nets on top of your savings. Set up your emergency funds for unexpected expenses.
Insurance and retirement plans – These plans can help you achieve financial security in the long run. Look into insurance and retirement programs that can address your needs and fit into your budget.

Creating your financial plan
It’s okay to start small when building your first financial plan—it doesn’t have to be complicated to be effective. Here are our tips to making a simple and practical one:

Figure out your financial situation – An honest evaluation of your finances can help you make concrete plans. List down your household’s income, monthly expenses, and savings. Place them side-by-side and compare the numbers to have a better understanding of what you’re earning versus how much you’re spending.
Set short-term and long-term goals – These will set the direction of your financial plan. Try setting goals with timelines like paying off a certain debt within 6 months, saving an extra Php 2,000 in 2 months, or buying your first home within 2 years.
Outline your action plan – Now that you know what you want to achieve, you can focus on how you can get there. Are you making the most out of your monthly budget? Have you considered loans? Do you need extra income or is it a matter of reallocating money?
Record your finances – We understand that official paperwork can be difficult to complete, but if possible, keep a copy of your pay slips, bills, taxes, payments, receipts, etc.
Don’t hesitate to seek advice – Talk to people who have experience to gain insight on options that you can explore and research. At HC Mutual, we also share Financial Wellness Tips and resource materials to help you.

Working on your financial plan gives you a clearer vision of your financial journey, including your milestones and low points. By setting definite goals, you can determine the right plan of action and take the best path towards securing the future for yourself and your family.

The first steps to planning your budget

Post author By bcddev
Post date June 2, 2020
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The first steps to planning your budget

May 29, 2020 | by HC Mutual

Many people believe that going on a budget means tightening the belt and cutting down on expenses. However, budgeting goes beyond that. It’s about allocation and planning, making sure that your hard-earned money is spent on the things that truly matter and make you happy.

If you’re new to budgeting, here are some tips that can help you begin and follow through your plans for the coming months and the long-term.

Track your spending.
Step one is to know the ins and outs of your spending habits.
For at least 30 days, take note of where you’ve been allocating
your funds. How much do you spend on groceries, utilities, rent
(if applicable), and travel expenses? You should also look at
your monthly subscriptions and plans, if any, as well as your
shopping or leisure expenses.

Know your income.
Before you begin spending, know what funds you’re working
with. How much do you earn? How many people are paying for household expenses? The more you know about your finances,
the better you can plan your budget.

Leave room for the unexpected.
Always overestimate funds for basic needs, emergencies, or unplanned expenses. Leaving a buffer in your budget is
especially helpful if you are self-employed or if your income is
inconsistent.

Set goals.
When planning your monthly budget, set small and big goals for
yourself. Whether it’s paying off your debt, decorating your
living room, or buying your first home, take the necessary steps
to make it happen. Accomplishing milestones can help inspire
you to keep going and to do better.

Include your savings in your budget.
Treat your savings as part of your utilities or monthly
obligations. Set an amount to “pay” consistently. To make
saving easier and lighter for you, we offer the KayaMo Saver’s
Plan. This disciplined financing program keeps you on-track of
your budget through a salary deduction scheme and flexible
payment terms, helping you save up for emergencies and
long-term goals.

Keep an updated record.
Whether it’s through an app, a notebook, or a spreadsheet, we
recommend documenting your finances. Keep your receipts
and use them to better track your spending. By having your
monthly income and expenses recorded, you can create a
clearer and well-grounded plan.

While it’s good to keep to your budget, remember that you have the choice to adjust it according to your priorities. Budgeting should not be a painful activity—it’s a tool to make your life easier and a stepping stone to achieving your future goals.

Taking the leap: Are you ready for your first home?

Post author By bcddev
Post date May 26, 2020
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Taking the leap: Are you ready for your first home?

May 22, 2020 | by HC Mutual

Choosing to buy your first home is one of the biggest decisions of your life. It is a commitment and a dream come true, which is why
you need to make sure that you’re ready before taking this major step.

There are many things to consider before going out to house-hunt: your savings, available properties, and your family’s preferences.
To prepare you for this life-changing move, here are a few questions that you can ask before buying your first home.

What kind of house do you want?
Knowing exactly what you want and what your family needs can
work wonders on your financial plans. Factor in the plot size,
floor area, configuration, and location of a potential home
when budget-planning to help balance costs to what you’ll
spend living in it. Consider the household’s accessibility, fuel
and transportation expenses, monthly bills, and other
day-to-day expenses.

Have you compared property prices?
Be sure that you’re getting a fair price for your home. Research
similarly sized properties in different areas and neighborhoods.
Make a list of your options and weigh out the pros and cons.
What are the amenities? Are there other inclusions? How long
has it been on the market? By comparing houses and taking
time to make an informed decision, you can get the most out of
what you’re paying for.

How will your savings look after your purchase?
A good place to start when buying a house is where you’ll be financially after you sign the deal. Will you still have enough for utilities,
essentials, and additional fees? Being ready for your first home goes beyond meeting its market price. Look at how much you’ll have
left for your monthly budget and savings.

How stable is your source of income?
Before making your decision, secure a steady and long-term
source of income. How many people are earning for the
household? Do you share bills and split living expenses? Having a
stable livelihood on top of your savings will ensure a happy and
comfortable life for your family in the long run.

Are you ready for lifestyle changes?
The process of paying for and maintaining your property can
greatly affect your lifestyle, especially for the first few months.
Review your monthly budget and consider: Do you need to lower
your mobile data plans, allocate more for utilities, or spend less on
leisure activities? Evaluate what changes can be made to cushion
your savings as you settle in your new home.

Have you considered your financing options?
One way to ease the financial load when buying a house is to apply for a loan. Look at the interest rate, payment terms, and loan
amount. Does it cover what you need? How does it fit into your budget? We at HC Mutual take these into consideration. We have
offers like the KayaMo Home Loan—with flexible terms and a wide range of partner home developers—to provide a smooth-sailing
journey to your first home.

Owning a place that you can proudly call yours is a major milestone. It is a decision best made with your family and an investment
that can last through generations. You don’t have to rush into it. Give yourself enough time to work through your financial goals at
your pace and build up enough savings before taking the leap.

Keeping your family healthy in your first home

Post author By bcddev
Post date May 14, 2020
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Keeping your family healthy in your first home

May 11, 2020 | by HC Mutual

Every Filipino deserves to enjoy comfortable and worry-free lives in their own homes. Your living space is where you nurture and
share milestones with your family, which is why it is important that your home is equipped to protect you and your loved ones from
disease and illness.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has developed evidence-based recommendations on housing and health to make sure your
home is safe and healthy. Check out these guidelines to know what to look for while house-hunting or updating your home.

Regulate indoor temperature
With our country’s hot climate, we need to be mindful of indoor temperatures. If your home runs too hot, you risk dehydration, heat stroke, and other pulmonary disease. It may also affect sleep quality and the immune system, especially for children and the elderly. To help cool down, WHO recommends proper ventilation (and taking advantage of the night air), window shades, green spaces, and thermal insulation.

Prevent household crowding
This aspect of housing covers the size and capacity of your home. Studies show that crowding may increase the risk of disease, sleep disorders, and stress. Before choosing or building your home, it is best to take your family’s numbers into consideration.

Remove injury hazards
Globally, about a third of injuries occur at home. However, you can minimize this risk by freeing your space of hazards like uneven flooring and steps, inadequate lighting, and unprotected hot surfaces. Prevent home injuries by adding gates and stoppers on your stairs, guards on stoves, and child-safety locks on your doors and windows. It is also best to inspect your floors to make sure that they aren’t too slippery especially when wet.

Make your home accessible
An accessible environment can help persons with disabilities enjoy better health, accomplish everyday tasks easier, and improve their quality of life. You can start by adding hand railings, ramps for stairs, safety frames on your toilets, and push/pull door handles. You can also rearrange your furniture for easier access or adjust indoor lighting, depending on each room or family member’s specific needs.

Have clean water at hand
Access to clean water is one of the most important things to consider when moving into your home. It is optimal to have at least one water supply and multiple taps within the house to sustain hydration, prepare food, and maintain personal hygiene.

Improve indoor air quality
Damp and dusty surroundings, food preparation, and smoking can pollute your home’s air, which may then lead to a weakened immune system, allergies, and disease. To combat these risks and to improve air quality, it is recommended to have proper ventilation, prevent smoking indoors (especially around children), and to keep your living spaces clean.

A happy and carefree life begins with good health. Cherish your loved ones by making sure your first home is up to standard and conducive to the well-being of the whole family.

Source: WHO Housing and Health Guidelines (2018)

Going Beyond the Expectations

Post author By bcddev
Post date February 28, 2020
No Comments on Going Beyond the Expectations

Pleased to have met the top executives of Homecredit Mutual Building and Loan Association (left to right): Mr. Kevin R. Lynch (President/CEO), Ms. Mylene H. Paris (Marketing Head), Ms. Virgie Ventura (Asst. Manager Client Services Dept.) and Mr. Michael C. Kaiser (Head Client Services Dept.)

Going Beyond the Expectations

February 17, 2020 | by Marilyn Amoro, HC Mutual Member

My daughter and I had the pleasure of meeting the top executives of Homecredit Mutual Building And Loan Association. I’ve been a member of this association since 2010 and I’m honored to have a trusted partner for roughly 10 years. They’re one of the associations I’ve known that goes beyond their service.

Year 2016 when I gave birth to my youngest child thru c-section at the Las Piñas Doctors Hospital. I was unconscious all throughout as I passed out when I got right at the doorstep of the hospital. Sadly, due to severe pre-eclampsia, my delivery led to a heart and lung complication (pulmonary congestion) so I was sent to the ICU (Internal Care Unit) after staying at the emergency room. When I woke up, there were tubes in my body and had to take lots of medicine thru IV infusion. The delivery was successful but I had to undergo lots of tests. Many times, three regular doctors would always tell me the same thing over and over again when they visited me, that only a small number of women can outlive this case, stating only 2 out of 10 can survive. My OB-GYN told me that I was so lucky for having a second life that she even advised me to offer a thanksgiving mass once I get out of the hospital.

I’d wanted to be released from the hospital since day one because I know the longer I stay, the higher our bills would get.

While my baby daughter was declared healthy after staying for 2 days at the nursery section, I, in my weakest state, stayed in the ICU for 7 days to have my heart and lungs monitored. After being released from the ICU, I stayed in a regular room for 3 more days. Our hospital bills kept on increasing each day and it’s something that we didn’t expect. Thankfully, we had friends and loved ones who helped us go through that situation.

Homecredit Mutual Building And Loan Association provided financial assistance during that time, aside from the help we received from our relatives, friends and our immediate families. Without them, we couldn’t survive financially. Ms. Virgie Ventura, Homecredit Assistant Marketing Manager, even visited me in the hospital that time to check my condition. She met my family twice and I can vividly remember what she said, “You are blessed, you have a very beautiful family”.

I will always be thankful to those who have helped my family during that time, most especially those who have always prayed for my fast recovery. I still have the encouraging notes, letters and heartfelt text messages with me. When I look back, I still can’t believe I’ve surpassed that challenge in my life. It may have brought us to a financial and health difficulty but it gave us another source of inspiration to live. That day has changed my entire life as our littlest angel came to our lives. It all happened with a purpose and that purpose made our family much happier and made us more united (me and husband most especially).

It brought me to a realization that you will always be tested many times, but if you have trusted friends and reliable partners in life, things will be a lot easier to handle. They will go beyond what you expect them to do, it’s all because they care about you.

Ms. Virgie Ventura (Asst. Manager Client Services Dept.), my daughter, Raulyn and I

ANNOUNCEMENT: HC Mutual Annual Stockholders’ Meeting

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WHEN

WHERE

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