CIMB vs EastWest Bank: Home Loan Overview
CIMB Bank Philippines has built a strong reputation as a digital bank offering high-yield savings accounts and personal loans, but as of 2025, CIMB does not offer a home loan or mortgage product in the Philippines. Homeowners searching for CIMB home loan options will find that this product simply isn't in their lineup.
EastWest Bank, on the other hand, is a full-service commercial bank with a comprehensive home loan program — and is a verified Nook partner bank. This means Filipino homeowners can apply for an EastWest Bank home loan or refinance through Nook at absolutely no cost.
If you're currently paying a high rate with another lender and hoping CIMB might offer a competitive alternative, the practical answer is to compare EastWest Bank against your current bank instead. You can also explore how EastWest Bank compares to Pag-IBIG home loan rates to see if refinancing makes sense for your situation.
Interest Rate Comparison
| Fixed Period | CIMB Bank | EastWest Bank |
|---|---|---|
| 1-Year Fixed | Not Available | 5.99% p.a. |
| 3-Year Fixed | Not Available | 6.25% p.a. |
| 5-Year Fixed | Not Available | 6.49% p.a. |
| 7-Year Fixed | Not Available | 7.00% p.a. |
| Home Equity | Not Available | 6.25% p.a. |
EastWest Bank's 1-year fixed rate of 5.99% p.a. is among the most competitive home loan refinance rates currently available in the Philippine market. Most Filipino homeowners are paying between 7% and 10% with their existing bank — meaning a refinance to EastWest Bank through Nook could result in significant monthly savings.
Note: Interest rates are subject to change. Always verify current rates with the bank or through Nook before making a decision.
Monthly Payment Comparison: What Could You Save?
To illustrate the potential savings of refinancing to EastWest Bank, here's a sample calculation for a 3,000,000 peso home loan over 20 years:
| Scenario | Rate | Est. Monthly Payment* |
|---|---|---|
| Typical existing loan (high end) | 9.00% p.a. | ~26,993 |
| Typical existing loan (mid range) | 8.00% p.a. | ~25,093 |
| EastWest Bank via Nook (1-yr fixed) | 5.99% p.a. | ~21,478 |
*Estimates based on a 3,000,000 peso loan over 20 years (240 months). Actual payments will vary based on fees, insurance, and final loan terms. For illustration purposes only.
That's a potential saving of 3,615 to 5,515 pesos per month — or up to 66,180 pesos per year — simply by refinancing to EastWest Bank through Nook.
Eligibility Requirements
| Criteria | CIMB Bank | EastWest Bank |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Monthly Income | N/A (no home loan) | 40,000 |
| Max Debt-to-Income Ratio | N/A | 40% |
| Employment Types Accepted | N/A | Private, Government, BPO, OFW/Seafarer, Self-Employed, Professional |
| Typical Approval Time | N/A | 19 days |
EastWest Bank's eligibility criteria are notably inclusive. Whether you're an OFW, a self-employed professional, or a BPO worker, you may qualify. This broad acceptance makes EastWest Bank one of the more accessible refinancing options in the market. You can compare this further by reading about the differences between Asia United Bank and EastWest Bank home loans.
Loan Purposes Supported
| Loan Purpose | CIMB Bank | EastWest Bank |
|---|---|---|
| Refinancing | Not Available | ✓ Yes |
| Home Purchase (RFO) | Not Available | ✓ Yes |
| Pre-Selling | Not Available | ✓ Yes |
| New Construction | Not Available | ✓ Yes |
| Renovation | Not Available | ✓ Yes |
| Home Equity / Cash-Out | Not Available | ✓ Yes (6.25% p.a.) |
| Foreclosed Properties | Not Available | ✓ Yes |
EastWest Bank supports virtually every home loan use case — from buying a ready-to-occupy condo to refinancing an existing loan or tapping your home equity for cash. CIMB currently does not serve any of these mortgage needs.
Applying Through Nook: Free Mortgage Brokering
Nook is the Philippines' first digital mortgage broker, and our service is completely free for borrowers. When you apply for an EastWest Bank home loan through Nook, you get:
- Access to EastWest Bank's lowest available rates (currently 5.99% p.a. on 1-year fixed)
- A dedicated mortgage advisor to guide you through the process
- Help comparing EastWest Bank against other lenders to ensure you get the best deal
- Support with document preparation and application submission
- No broker fees — ever
Since CIMB does not offer home loans, Nook cannot broker a CIMB mortgage. But if you're considering other digital-first or alternative banks, you can also read about how EastWest Bank compares to GoTyme for home loans.
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Compare My Options →Frequently Asked Questions
Does CIMB Bank Philippines offer a home loan?
As of 2025, CIMB Bank Philippines does not offer a home loan or mortgage product. CIMB focuses on digital banking services like savings accounts and personal loans. If you're looking for a home loan, you'll need to consider other banks such as EastWest Bank, which offers competitive rates starting at 5.99% p.a. through Nook.
What is EastWest Bank's lowest home loan rate?
EastWest Bank's lowest home loan rate is 5.99% p.a. on a 1-year fixed term, available through Nook. They also offer 6.25% for a 3-year fixed, 6.49% for 5-year fixed, and 7.00% for a 7-year fixed period. Note that rates are subject to change — verify the latest rates through Nook or directly with EastWest Bank.
Can I refinance my home loan to EastWest Bank through Nook?
Yes. EastWest Bank is a Nook partner bank and supports home loan refinancing. Applying through Nook is 100% free for borrowers. Nook's mortgage advisors will help you compare rates, check your eligibility, and manage your application from start to finish — typically approved within 19 days.
Who is eligible for an EastWest Bank home loan?
EastWest Bank accepts a wide range of borrower profiles, including employees in the private sector, government workers, BPO employees, OFWs and seafarers, self-employed individuals, and professionals. The minimum monthly income requirement is 40,000 pesos, and the maximum debt-to-income ratio is 40%.
How much can I save by refinancing to EastWest Bank?
Savings depend on your current rate and loan balance. As an example, on a 3,000,000 peso loan over 20 years, switching from a 9% rate to EastWest Bank's 5.99% rate could save you approximately 5,515 pesos per month — or over 66,000 pesos per year. Use Nook's free refinancing calculator or speak with a Nook advisor to estimate your personal savings.
Can I use EastWest Bank for a home equity loan?
Yes. EastWest Bank offers home equity loans at 6.25% p.a., allowing homeowners to tap the equity built up in their property for cash. This can be useful for funding renovations, education, or other major expenses. Apply through Nook for free to explore this option.
Is Nook's mortgage brokering service really free?
Yes, Nook's service is 100% free for borrowers. Nook earns a referral fee from the bank — not from you. You get expert mortgage advice, rate comparisons, and application support at no cost whatsoever.