China's four biggest banks, the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China, Agricultural Bank of China, China Construction Bank and Bank of China have all tightened mortgage policies. They have raised the previously 70 percent discounted mortgage rate for first time home buyers.

An employee of ICBC said, "We don't offer the 70 percent discount mortgage rate any more. The rate has been raised to 80 percent and above. The rate will differ, based on customers' individual circumstances and credit records. Anyway, the previous 70 percent discount rate is surely rolled back."

The ICBC is now providing 80 percent of the standard rate for first-time home buyers paying over a 30 percent down payment. Those offering between 20 to 30 percent down payments can enjoy an 85 percent discount rate.

Agricultural Bank of China has also raised the rate to 80 percent for those making a 20 percent down payment.

Meanwhile, Bank of China is offering an 85 percent discount rate. It also requires a higher down payment ratio for first-time buyers, for homes above 90 square meters.

And China Construction Bank only offers a 70 percent discount rate for those making a 40 percent down payment.

Other small and medium-sized commercial banks have also followed the suit. Many have adjusted up the discounted rates to 80 or 85 percent.

Sourced from www.cctv.com