India, Oct. 8 -- justify;">Navratri and the festive season are traditionally considered an auspicious time for major purchases, including a home. For buyers already planning to purchase property, this period can add to the sense of timing and intent.

If you are comparing home loan offers during this period, the more useful question is not simply which lender advertises the lowest rate. It is what the loan will actually cost you over the period you expect to repay it.

The applicable interest rate, processing fee, tenure, rate-reset terms and prepayment conditions can all affect that cost. Comparing these on the same loan amount and tenure can help you see whether an offer provides a genuine financial benefit.

Start with five inputs:

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