First Metro Investment vs SB Finance: Home Loan Overview
First Metro Investment Corporation (FMIC) is the investment banking arm of Metrobank Group, primarily known for capital markets and corporate finance. Its home loan products are typically accessed through its affiliation with Metrobank and are positioned toward higher-income or investment-focused borrowers. SB Finance, on the other hand, is a consumer lending subsidiary of Security Bank, designed to serve a broader retail market with more streamlined digital and branch-based application processes.
For Filipino homeowners comparing these two lenders, the key differences come down to target borrower profile, rate structures, and how actively each institution competes for refinance business.
Interest Rate Comparison
| Feature | First Metro Investment | SB Finance |
|---|---|---|
| Indicative Fixed Rate (1-year) | 7.50% – 8.50% p.a. | 7.25% – 8.75% p.a. |
| Indicative Fixed Rate (3-year) | 7.75% – 9.00% p.a. | 7.50% – 9.25% p.a. |
| Indicative Fixed Rate (5-year) | 8.00% – 9.50% p.a. | 8.00% – 9.50% p.a. |
| Best Available via Nook | 5.99% p.a. | |
Both lenders reprice their rates periodically in line with BSP policy rates and market conditions. Always request a formal loan quote before making any comparison, as published rates may differ from actual offers extended to individual borrowers.
Monthly Payment Comparison: ₱3,500,000 Loan Over 20 Years
To illustrate the real-world impact of rate differences, here's what a ₱3,500,000 home loan over 20 years would cost monthly at different rates:
| Interest Rate | Estimated Monthly Payment | Total Interest Paid |
|---|---|---|
| 8.50% p.a. (FMIC est.) | 30,388 | 3,793,200 |
| 8.00% p.a. (SB Finance est.) | 29,259 | 3,522,160 |
| 5.99% p.a. (via Nook) | 25,067 | 2,516,080 |
Refinancing at 5.99% p.a. through Nook versus a typical 8.50% rate could save you an estimated 5,277 per month — or over 1,277,120 in total interest across a 20-year term. That's money that stays in your pocket.
Fees and Charges
| Fee Type | First Metro Investment | SB Finance |
|---|---|---|
| Processing Fee | Varies; typically 0.50% – 1.00% of loan amount | Typically ₱5,000 – ₱10,000 flat or % of loan |
| Appraisal Fee | Third-party appraiser; ₱3,500 – ₱6,000 est. | Third-party appraiser; ₱3,500 – ₱5,500 est. |
| Documentary Stamp Tax | Borrower's account | Borrower's account |
| Mortgage Registration | Borrower's account | Borrower's account |
| Prepayment Penalty | May apply within lock-in period | May apply within lock-in period |
Note: Fee structures are indicative and subject to change. Both lenders will provide a formal loan disclosure statement detailing all applicable charges. Nook's refinance service is 100% free to the borrower — Nook is compensated by the lending bank, not by you.
Loan Terms and Eligibility
| Criteria | First Metro Investment | SB Finance |
|---|---|---|
| Loan Term | Up to 20 years | Up to 20 years |
| Minimum Loan Amount | Typically ₱1,000,000+ | Typically ₱500,000+ |
| Target Borrower | Mid-to-high income, investment-linked clients | Broad retail market, employed and self-employed |
| OFW Applicants | Limited availability | Generally accepted with co-borrower |
| Age Requirement | 21–65 years at loan maturity | 21–65 years at loan maturity |
If you're comparing SB Finance to other digital-first lenders, you may also find our GoTyme vs SB Finance home loan comparison useful for additional context on SB Finance's positioning in the market.
Application Process
First Metro Investment
FMIC's home loan process is typically facilitated through its Metrobank Group relationship. Applications may require an existing banking relationship or referral, and the process tends to be more documentation-intensive, reflecting its investment banking heritage. Turnaround times can range from 2–6 weeks depending on property type and borrower complexity.
SB Finance
SB Finance has invested in a more streamlined retail lending process, with online pre-qualification tools and branch-based support through Security Bank's network. The process is generally more accessible for salaried employees and self-employed individuals alike, with turnaround times of approximately 2–4 weeks for complete applications.
Refinancing via Nook
Nook handles the entire process on your behalf — from gathering your documents to submitting to multiple lenders simultaneously. You get competing offers in one place, and Nook's team guides you through every step at zero cost to you. Most Nook clients receive their first offer within 5–7 business days of submitting complete documents.
Which Lender Is Right for You?
If you're a high-net-worth borrower with an existing Metrobank Group relationship, First Metro Investment may offer bundled benefits worth exploring. For most retail borrowers — especially those looking for straightforward home purchase financing or refinancing — SB Finance's broader accessibility makes it the more practical choice between the two.
That said, neither lender is currently offering rates that compete with the 5.99% p.a. available through Nook's refinancing platform. If you already have a home loan at 7.5% or higher, refinancing is almost certainly the better financial move. You can also explore how other lenders compare — for instance, our PBCOM vs Sterling Bank comparison covers two more mid-market options worth knowing about.
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Compare My Options →Frequently Asked Questions
Is First Metro Investment the same as Metrobank for home loans?
Not exactly. First Metro Investment Corporation (FMIC) is the investment banking subsidiary of the Metrobank Group. While they share ownership, FMIC's home loan products are distinct from Metrobank's retail home loan offerings. FMIC tends to cater to a more specialized or investment-oriented client base, whereas Metrobank's home loans are more widely available to retail borrowers.
Is SB Finance the same as Security Bank?
SB Finance is a consumer lending subsidiary of Security Bank. It operates as a separate entity focused on personal and home lending for the retail market, with its own application process and product set. However, it is backed by Security Bank's capital and network, which provides a degree of institutional stability.
What is the current best home loan refinance rate in the Philippines?
Through Nook, the best available refinance rate is currently 5.99% p.a. This is significantly lower than the 7%–9% range most Filipino homeowners are currently paying. Nook works with multiple banks to find you the most competitive offer, and the service is completely free to you as the borrower.
How much can I save by refinancing from 8.5% to 5.99%?
On a ₱3,500,000 loan with 20 years remaining, refinancing from 8.5% to 5.99% p.a. could reduce your monthly payment by approximately 5,277 — saving you over 1,277,000 in total interest over the life of the loan. Savings will vary depending on your outstanding balance, remaining term, and the specific rate you qualify for.
How long does a refinance application take through Nook?
Most Nook clients receive their first formal offer within 5–7 business days of submitting complete documentation. The full refinancing process — from application to loan release — typically takes 4–8 weeks depending on the lender and property documentation status. Nook manages the process end-to-end so you don't have to chase banks yourself.
Does Nook charge any fees for its refinancing service?
No. Nook's service is 100% free to the borrower. Nook earns a referral fee from the lending bank — similar to how insurance brokers operate — so you get expert guidance and access to multiple lenders at zero cost to you. Standard third-party costs like appraisal fees and documentary stamp taxes still apply as they would with any home loan transaction.
Can I refinance if my current loan is with First Metro Investment or SB Finance?
Yes. If your existing home loan is with either First Metro Investment or SB Finance — or any other lender — Nook can help you explore refinancing options. As long as you have sufficient remaining loan balance, a good payment history, and adequate property equity, you are likely eligible to refinance to a lower rate.