Asia United Bank vs Bank of Commerce: Home Loan Overview
Asia United Bank (AUB) and Bank of Commerce (BankCom) are both licensed Philippine commercial banks offering home loan products. Neither commands the same brand recognition or branch footprint as BDO, BPI, or Metrobank, but they can be viable options depending on your location and relationship with the bank. The challenge for borrowers is that both institutions publish limited rate information publicly, making direct comparison difficult without going through their branches — or using a broker like Nook.
Below, we break down what is known about each bank's home loan offerings and where each tends to shine or fall short.
Interest Rates
| Feature | Asia United Bank | Bank of Commerce |
|---|---|---|
| Indicative Fixed Rate (1-year) | ~7.50% – 9.00% p.a. | ~7.75% – 9.25% p.a. |
| Indicative Fixed Rate (3-year) | ~8.00% – 9.50% p.a. | ~8.25% – 9.75% p.a. |
| Indicative Fixed Rate (5-year) | ~8.50% – 10.00% p.a. | ~8.75% – 10.25% p.a. |
| Rate Transparency | Low — inquire at branch | Low — inquire at branch |
| Best Refinance Rate via Nook | 5.99% p.a. (across Nook's panel) | |
Rates shown above are indicative ranges based on market intelligence and may not reflect current offers. Both banks require in-branch or in-person consultation to get a firm quote. This lack of transparency is precisely why many borrowers benefit from working with a broker — Nook can collect competing offers on your behalf at no cost.
Monthly Repayment Comparison
To illustrate the real-world impact of rate differences, here is how monthly repayments compare on a 3,000,000 peso home loan over a 20-year term at different rates:
| Interest Rate | Lender | Monthly Repayment (approx.) | Total Interest Paid |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9.00% p.a. | Asia United Bank (high estimate) | 26,992 | 3,478,080 |
| 9.25% p.a. | Bank of Commerce (mid estimate) | 27,497 | 3,599,280 |
| 7.50% p.a. | Mid-market rate | 24,168 | 2,800,320 |
| 5.99% p.a. | Best rate via Nook | 21,490 | 2,157,600 |
A borrower refinancing from 9.00% to 5.99% on a 3,000,000 peso loan could save approximately 1,320,480 pesos in total interest and reduce their monthly payment by around 5,502 pesos. That is a meaningful difference over a 20-year loan life.
Loan Features and Eligibility
| Feature | Asia United Bank | Bank of Commerce |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Loan Amount | ~500,000 | ~500,000 |
| Maximum Loan Amount | Up to 80% of appraised value | Up to 80% of appraised value |
| Loan Tenure | Up to 20 years | Up to 20 years |
| Eligible Borrowers | Filipino citizens, some OFWs | Filipino citizens, some OFWs |
| Refinancing Accepted | Yes | Yes |
| OFW Loans | Limited | Limited |
| Online Application | Partial | Partial |
Fees and Charges
| Fee Type | Asia United Bank | Bank of Commerce |
|---|---|---|
| Processing Fee | ~5,000 – 10,000 (non-refundable) | ~5,000 – 10,000 (non-refundable) |
| Appraisal Fee | Charged separately | Charged separately |
| Documentary Stamp Tax | Borrower pays | Borrower pays |
| Mortgage Registration Fee | Borrower pays | Borrower pays |
| Cancellation / Early Redemption Fee | Typically 1%–2% if within fixed period | Typically 1%–2% if within fixed period |
When refinancing, it is important to factor in all upfront costs to ensure the long-term interest savings outweigh the switching costs. Nook can help you model this break-even analysis for free.
Branch Network and Accessibility
Asia United Bank operates over 200 branches across the Philippines, with stronger representation in Metro Manila and key provincial cities. Bank of Commerce has a similar footprint, with over 130 branches. Neither bank has the nationwide depth of BDO or BPI, which may matter if you prefer in-person service or live outside major urban centers.
For reference, if you are also evaluating larger banks, our BDO vs Landbank home loan comparison covers two of the most widely accessible lenders in the country and may be a useful read alongside this page.
Customer Service and Digital Experience
Both AUB and BankCom have made investments in digital banking in recent years, but their home loan processes remain largely document-heavy and branch-dependent. Expect longer processing timelines — often 2 to 4 weeks or more — and limited ability to track your application online. If a smooth, transparent digital experience matters to you, working with Nook streamlines the process significantly: one application, multiple lender quotes, and a dedicated advisor to guide you through.
Who Should Consider Each Bank?
Asia United Bank may suit you if you already have an existing banking relationship with AUB and want to consolidate your financial products, or if you are located near one of their branches and prefer face-to-face service.
Bank of Commerce could be a fit if you have existing deposits or a business account with BankCom and your loan officer can offer a preferential rate as part of a broader banking package.
That said, for most borrowers simply looking for the lowest refinance rate and smoothest process, neither bank is likely to be the top choice. Lenders on Nook's panel — including major banks and specialized mortgage lenders — are currently offering rates as low as 5.99% p.a. If you are comparing smaller lenders like AUB and BankCom, it is worth checking what the broader market has to offer. You might also find our First Metro Investment vs Metrobank comparison useful if you want to see how a specialized investment bank stacks up against a big-three lender.
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Compare My Options →Frequently Asked Questions
Which has a lower home loan rate — Asia United Bank or Bank of Commerce?
Based on available market data, both banks offer indicative rates in a similar range of approximately 7.50% to 10.25% p.a. depending on the fixed rate period and loan terms. Asia United Bank tends to quote slightly lower starting rates, but the difference is marginal and both banks require an in-branch consultation for a firm quote. For the most competitive rates available in the Philippines right now, Nook's panel of lenders offers rates starting at 5.99% p.a.
Can I refinance my existing home loan with Asia United Bank or Bank of Commerce?
Yes, both Asia United Bank and Bank of Commerce accept refinancing applications for existing home loans held with other lenders. You will generally need to be current on payments, have a property with sufficient appraised value, and meet standard income and credit requirements. That said, refinancing to a lender on Nook's panel may deliver significantly better rates — sometimes 1% to 3% lower than what AUB or BankCom currently offer.
What is the maximum loan amount I can get from Asia United Bank or Bank of Commerce?
Both banks typically lend up to 80% of the appraised value of the property (loan-to-value ratio). The actual amount will depend on your income, credit profile, and the bank's internal assessment. Both banks generally have no published hard ceiling on loan amounts, but practical limits are determined case by case.
How long does it take to get approved for a home loan at these banks?
Both Asia United Bank and Bank of Commerce typically take 2 to 4 weeks or more to process a home loan application once all documents are submitted. Processing times can vary depending on branch workload and completeness of your documents. If speed is important, Nook works with lenders who have streamlined approval processes and can often facilitate faster turnarounds.
Is Nook's mortgage brokering service free to use?
Yes, Nook's service is 100% free to borrowers. Nook is compensated by the lending institutions, not by you. You get access to multiple lender quotes, professional advice, and full application support at no cost. There are no hidden fees or obligations to proceed after receiving your quotes.
What documents do I need to refinance my home loan?
Standard documents for refinancing in the Philippines typically include a valid government-issued ID, proof of income (payslips, ITR, or audited financials for the self-employed), your existing loan statement of account, Transfer Certificate of Title (TCT) or Condominium Certificate of Title (CCT), tax declaration, and a recent appraisal report. Nook's advisors will give you a full checklist tailored to your situation when you apply.
Are there penalties for switching away from Asia United Bank or Bank of Commerce?
Most Philippine banks, including AUB and BankCom, charge an early redemption or pre-termination fee if you refinance during your fixed rate period. This is typically 1% to 2% of the outstanding loan balance. It is important to calculate whether the interest savings from refinancing outweigh these switching costs — Nook can help you run this break-even analysis for free before you commit.