start:bausparkasse AG products, services and reviews

About start:bausparkasse AG

start:bausparkasse AG is an Austrian building society focused on residential savings and home financing under the national Bausparkassengesetz. Its core offering is the classic Bauspar contract, which combines a multi‑year savings phase and potential access to a preferential housing loan; contributions may qualify for the Austrian state premium within statutory limits set annually, subject to legal conditions. Contracts typically run for a minimum six‑year term, and early termination can reduce credited benefits; an upfront closing fee based on the target sum and ongoing charges may apply, so tariff sheets merit close review. On the credit side, the institution offers assigned loans following the savings phase as well as interim/bridging loans, usually with separate pricing and conditions; borrowers should expect standard documentation, collateral requirements (often a mortgage or assignment of claims), arrangement and valuation fees, and possible charges for early repayment during fixed‑rate periods. Pricing reflects market rates and the specific tariff; effective APRs depend on fees, term, and collateral. Deposits are protected by Austria’s statutory deposit guarantee scheme up to EUR 100,000 per depositor per institution, and the firm is subject to supervision by the Financial Market Authority (FMA). Distribution is primarily digital and via partners, with identity verification through standard KYC procedures; the customer base is largely domestic retail, and product documentation is predominantly in German. Key considerations include low base rates on Bauspar savings relative to market alternatives, the impact of fees on net yield, inflation risk over the savings horizon, and the possibility of legal changes to the state premium. For loans, eligibility and terms may be influenced by national mortgage rules (e.g., loan‑to‑value and affordability limits). Prospective customers should evaluate the full cost of the contract, intended use of funds, liquidity needs, and the implications of early withdrawal or repayment before committing.