AUB vs CIMB Home Loan: Quick Snapshot
Both AUB and CIMB are licensed Philippine banks offering home loan products, but they come from very different backgrounds. AUB (Asia United Bank) is a mid-sized universal bank with a physical branch presence, while CIMB Bank Philippines is a digital-first bank backed by Malaysia's CIMB Group. This shapes everything from how you apply to how your rate is structured.
| Feature | AUB | CIMB |
|---|---|---|
| Bank Type | Universal Bank | Digital Bank |
| Typical Interest Rate Range | 7.00% – 9.50% p.a. | 6.50% – 9.00% p.a. |
| Minimum Loan Amount | 1,000,000 | 1,000,000 |
| Maximum Loan Amount | Up to 80% of appraised value | Up to 80% of appraised value |
| Loan Term | Up to 20 years | Up to 20 years |
| Fixed Rate Periods | 1, 2, 3, 5, 10 years | 1, 2, 3, 5 years |
| Application Channel | Branch or online | Fully digital (app/web) |
| Processing Fee | Approximately 5,000 – 10,000 | Approximately 5,000 – 10,000 |
| Appraisal Fee | Charged separately | Charged separately |
Note: Rates are indicative and subject to change. Always verify the latest rates directly with the bank or through a broker like Nook.
Interest Rate Comparison in Peso Terms
Let's make the rate difference concrete. Assume a home loan of 3,500,000 over 20 years. Here's how the monthly repayments and total interest paid differ across typical rate scenarios for AUB and CIMB:
| Scenario | Rate | Monthly Payment (approx.) | Total Interest Paid (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| AUB – Mid Rate | 8.25% p.a. | 30,100 | 3,724,000 |
| CIMB – Mid Rate | 7.75% p.a. | 29,000 | 3,460,000 |
| Nook Best Rate | 5.99% p.a. | 25,070 | 2,516,800 |
The difference between a typical AUB rate and what Nook can currently offer is roughly 5,030 per month — that's over 1,207,200 in savings over the life of a 20-year loan. Even switching from CIMB's competitive rate to Nook's best rate saves approximately 943,200 in total interest.
If you're already a homeowner with an existing loan from AUB, CIMB, or any other bank, it's worth checking whether refinancing through Nook makes sense. You can also see how CIMB stacks up against other lenders in our CIMB vs PBCOM home loan comparison.
Fixed Rate Periods: AUB vs CIMB
One of the most important decisions in any Philippine home loan is choosing your fixed rate period. During this window, your interest rate is locked in regardless of market movements. After it ends, your loan reprices — usually at a higher rate.
AUB offers fixed periods of 1, 2, 3, 5, and 10 years. The 10-year fixed option is a meaningful differentiator for borrowers who want long-term payment certainty.
CIMB currently offers fixed periods up to 5 years. This is typical for digital banks in the Philippines but means you'll be exposed to repricing risk sooner than with AUB's 10-year option.
If rate stability over the long term is your priority, AUB's 10-year fixed period gives you more peace of mind. If you're comfortable with shorter fixing periods and want a potentially lower headline rate upfront, CIMB is worth considering.
Application Process: Which Is Easier?
CIMB is built for digital convenience. You can submit your home loan application entirely through their app or website, upload documents digitally, and track your application status online. For self-employed borrowers and salaried employees who are comfortable with technology, this is a genuinely smoother experience.
AUB supports online applications but also maintains a branch network for borrowers who prefer face-to-face assistance. This matters more than people expect — home loan applications often require clarifications, and having a relationship manager you can meet in person can speed up resolution.
Both banks will require standard documents: government-issued ID, proof of income (payslips or ITR), property documents, and a duly accomplished application form. Processing time for both is typically 5–15 business days, depending on document completeness.
For more context on how AUB compares in the digital bank space, see our Asia United Bank vs Tonik home loan comparison.
Fees and Charges to Watch Out For
Beyond the interest rate, both AUB and CIMB charge fees that affect the true cost of your loan. Here's what to expect:
| Fee | AUB | CIMB |
|---|---|---|
| Processing Fee | ~5,000 – 10,000 | ~5,000 – 10,000 |
| Appraisal Fee | 3,000 – 8,000 (varies by property) | 3,000 – 8,000 (varies by property) |
| Documentary Stamp Tax | Borrower's account | Borrower's account |
| Mortgage Registration Fee | Borrower's account | Borrower's account |
| Early Termination Fee | Applies within fixed period | Applies within fixed period |
| Annual Fee | None (typically) | None (typically) |
Early termination fees are particularly important if you're considering refinancing within your fixed period. Most Philippine banks charge a penalty of 1–3% of the outstanding balance if you pay off or refinance before your fixed rate period ends. Always confirm this with your bank before proceeding.
Who Should Choose AUB?
- Borrowers who want a longer fixed rate period (up to 10 years) for payment stability
- Those who prefer in-person support through a branch network
- Borrowers with complex financial profiles who benefit from a relationship manager
- Property buyers in areas with strong AUB branch coverage
Who Should Choose CIMB?
- Tech-savvy borrowers who want a fully digital application process
- Those who are comfortable with fixed periods of up to 5 years
- Borrowers looking for a competitive introductory rate with a streamlined experience
- Individuals who already bank with CIMB and want to consolidate their financial relationship
The Smarter Alternative: Refinance Through Nook
If you already have a home loan — whether with AUB, CIMB, or any other bank — there's a good chance you're paying more than you need to. The best refinance rate currently available through Nook is 5.99% p.a., which is significantly lower than what most Filipino homeowners are paying today (typically 7% to 10%).
Nook is the Philippines' first digital mortgage broker. We compare home loan offers from multiple banks on your behalf and help you refinance for free — yes, our service costs you nothing. In the time it takes to research AUB and CIMB individually, Nook can show you competitive offers from both, plus BDO, BPI, Metrobank, Security Bank, and more.
You can also explore how other digital lenders compare by reading our Bank of Commerce vs CIMB home loan comparison for additional context before making your decision.
Not sure which bank suits you?
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Compare My Options →Frequently Asked Questions
Is AUB or CIMB better for home loans in the Philippines?
It depends on your priorities. CIMB generally offers a more competitive introductory rate and a fully digital application process, making it ideal for tech-comfortable borrowers. AUB offers longer fixed rate periods (up to 10 years) and in-person branch support, which suits borrowers who want more stability and hands-on assistance. However, both banks may be beaten by refinance rates available through Nook, which currently offers as low as 5.99% p.a.
What is the current home loan rate for AUB?
AUB's home loan rates typically range from around 7.00% to 9.50% p.a. depending on the fixed rate period chosen and the borrower's profile. Shorter fixed periods (1–2 years) tend to have lower rates, while longer terms (10 years) are priced higher for the added certainty. Always verify the latest rates directly with AUB or through a broker like Nook.
What is the current home loan rate for CIMB?
CIMB's home loan rates in the Philippines generally range from approximately 6.50% to 9.00% p.a. As a digital bank, CIMB often positions its rates competitively to attract borrowers. Rates vary based on the fixed period selected, loan amount, and borrower qualifications. Check directly with CIMB or use Nook to compare their current offer against other lenders.
Can I refinance my AUB home loan to CIMB?
Yes, refinancing from AUB to CIMB is possible if CIMB offers you a better rate and terms. However, before doing so, check whether you are still within your AUB fixed rate period — early termination fees may apply and could offset the savings. It's also worth using Nook to compare both banks simultaneously, as there may be lenders offering even lower rates than CIMB.
How much can I borrow from AUB or CIMB for a home loan?
Both AUB and CIMB typically lend up to 80% of the appraised value of the property, with minimum loan amounts starting at around 1,000,000. Maximum amounts depend on the property valuation and the borrower's income and creditworthiness. Loan terms of up to 20 years are available from both banks.
Is CIMB a safe bank for home loans in the Philippines?
Yes. CIMB Bank Philippines is a licensed bank regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and is covered by the Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation (PDIC) for deposits. It is a subsidiary of CIMB Group, one of Southeast Asia's leading banking groups. Your home loan with CIMB is a standard mortgage product governed by BSP regulations.
What documents do I need to apply for a home loan with AUB or CIMB?
Both banks typically require: a valid government-issued ID, proof of income (recent payslips and Certificate of Employment for salaried employees, or ITR and audited financial statements for self-employed), proof of billing, and property documents such as a Transfer Certificate of Title (TCT), tax declaration, and lot plan. Requirements may vary slightly, so confirm the full list with your chosen bank.
How does Nook help me compare AUB and CIMB home loans?
Nook is the Philippines' first digital mortgage broker. Instead of applying to AUB and CIMB separately and waiting for individual responses, Nook submits your details to multiple lenders at once and presents you with competitive offers side by side. Nook's service is 100% free to borrowers — lenders pay a referral fee, not you. The best refinance rate currently available through Nook is 5.99% p.a.