The Islamic Sharia Law prohibits the payment of interest. To use a mortgage is the most common form to purchase a home for many countries. On a conventional mortgage, the borrower needs to pay interest. So, the devoted Muslim avoids to purchasing a home.

A few years ago, only the very rich can really afford to purchase a home. Now, mainstream financial institutions are changing to accommodate the Muslim devotees. Financial products are created. So, the Muslims are able to purchase a home.

As many countries lack the knowledge and language of Quran (Islamic bible), the Muslim scholars is needed to review the financial products. This is to make sure that the financial products are halal (permissible). The Muslim scholars also look at the money that is use by financial institution. The money must come from permissible sources.

There are more and more Muslims that is living on a country with different predominantly religion. Naturally, the financial institutions are seeing the need to tap the Muslim market. It is believe to be worth in billions.

The Murabaha and Ijara are the two mortgage refinancing options that meet the Islamic Sharia Law. In English, the Murabaha means deferred sale finance. As for Ijara, it means lease to own in English.

In Murabaha, the borrower pays twenty percent as down payment. So, the borrower needs a substantial amount of capital in this option. First, the borrower shops for a home like the conventional mortgage. Next, the borrower pays the twenty percent down payment. Then, the financial institution purchases the home for the borrower. In return, the financial institution sells the home to borrower on a higher price. The higher price is determined by original price, repayment period, and down payment. Finally, the borrower agrees on the repayment amount and term agreement.

In Ijara, the borrower looks for a suitable home. After he found a suitable home, the borrower negotiates the price to the home owner. When the price is settled, the financial institution purchases the home to gain ownership. Then, the borrower agrees to the lease agreement. On top of the lease, the borrower pays additional to pay off the mortgage.

In any case, the borrower can pay off the mortgage without penalties. In reality, the Murabaha and Ijara are more expensive than the conventional mortgage. However, the Muslim devotees feel at ease. They rather pay more as long as it is permitted to their religion.

Technically, the home is sold two times. First, the financial institution purchases the home. Then, the borrower purchases the home from financial institution. So, the borrower pays the mortgage refinancing closing costs two times. Recently, the mainstream financial institution charges only one closing costs for equality.

Muslim communities in many countries are growing steadily. It is a dream to purchase a home someday. Nevertheless, there will be a few obstacles that will get in the way. It is just natural. Many devotees will feel guilty to take part that violates their religion. So, it is okay to pay extra. There are no complains. At first, many devotees think that conventional mortgage is the only way to proceed. Times are changing. Mainstream financial institutions bends toward their need and religion.

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