Bank of China (Hong Kong) (BOCHK) has reinforced its leadership in Hong Kong’s mortgage industry with the Home Expert app. This initiative addresses key challenges in the home financing process by integrating digital tools and offering personalised support and sustainability-driven features. Recognised as the Best Home Loan Financing Initiative in Asia Pacific in 2025, Home Expert exemplifies the bank’s commitment to enhancing customer experience and maintaining market leadership. Hong Kong’s mortgage market adapts to rising prices, competition and shifting homebuyer demand Hong Kong is home to some of the most expensive residential properties in the world and is renowned for having one of the most competitive real estate markets globally. Various factors, including price fluctuations, limited land supply, strong investment demand, and government housing policies have long shaped the dynamic of the city’s residential real estate sector. As a result, homeownership poses a significant financial challenge, making mortgage financing an essential means of achieving property aspirations. The mortgage market in Hong Kong is highly developed, with banks competing to provide innovative and customised financing solutions that cater to a broad spectrum of buyers, from first-time homeowners to affluent investors. In recent years, the banking industry has evolved to integrate digital tools and personalised loan structures, reflecting broader shifts in consumer expectations and financial technology. Additionally, there is a growing interest in homeownership beyond Hong Kong, particularly in the Greater Bay Area (GBA). Improved transportation has made cross-border commuting and living more feasible. In response, banks have developed cross-border financing solutions to meet this demand. While still a niche market, these offerings demonstrate a broader industry effort to enhance mortgage accessibility and adapt to changing homebuyer preferences. Bank of China (Hong Kong)’s Mortgage team pictured with their prestigious award BOCHK’s Home Expert app simplifies mortgage financing with digital solutions and tailored support BOCHK’s Home Expert platform is designed to simplify the complexities of home financing by integrating digital solutions with robust customer support mechanisms. Features such as the Property Valuation Tracker and Property Portfolio tools enable users to effortlessly monitor property values and access refinancing options, offering greater transparency and control over their investments. In line with the government’s talent attraction scheme, Home Expert introduces the Incoming Talent Persona feature, specifically designed for professionals relocating to Hong Kong. This feature provides comprehensive guides on the local property market, tax policies and financing options, empowering newcomers to make informed decisions with greater confidence. Additionally, BOCHK has incorporated environmental, social and governance (ESG) green building labels into its property listings, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability and enabling homebuyers to make environmentally responsible choices. For affluent clients, BOCHK offers personalised mortgage consultations and prioritised one-day approvals, delivering a level of service that sets it apart from competitors in a highly standardised market. Additionally, dedicated homebuyer seminars are scheduled regularly to provide valuable insights and guidance, making the purchasing process simpler and more manageable. Recognising the importance of retirement planning, BOCHK also provides specialised mortgage schemes for elderly customers, including the Reverse Mortgage Plan. By addressing the specific needs of various homebuyer segments, Home Expert has redefined the mortgage experience in Hong Kong, reinforcing BOCHK’s pioneer position in the industry. Implementation and commercial success The success of Home Expert lies in its digital accessibility and strong customer engagement. With over 80% of the bank’s mortgage applications now conducted online, the app has earned significant consumer trust. It has been downloaded over 185,000 times, reflecting widespread market acceptance. BOCHK has ranked first in the market for the total number of new mortgage loans for six consecutive years since 2019, with its market share rising to 30.6% in 2024, further solidifying its leadership in the sector. The app’s first-to-market features, such as ESG Green Building Labels and persona-based mortgage services, have set a new benchmark for the industry. These innovations not only align with emerging trends but also enhance operational efficiency, drive transaction volumes, and foster long-term customer loyalty. Home Expert has strengthened BOCHK’s market leadership and contributed to sustainable business growth. Its digital-first approach and ESG-focused mortgage solutions enable the bank to stand out in a highly competitive market, leading to greater customer engagement. For customers, Home Expert offers unparalleled convenience and transparency throughout the home-buying process. Features such as the Property Valuation Tracker and tailored persona insights provide real-time data, simplifying decision-making for first-time homebuyers, incoming talents, and retirees alike. By combining digital accessibility with personalised support, BOCHK has significantly enhanced customer satisfaction and financial security. Looking ahead, BOCHK remains committed to refining the Home Expert app and expanding its reach beyond Hong Kong to the GBA. Future enhancements may include expanded ESG mortgage solutions, and advanced analytics to offer tailored digital property acquisition journey with step-by-step purchase guide for all types of homebuyers. These innovations will further enhance the app’s ability to deliver value to customers, ensuring that BOCHK remains at the forefront of mortgage financing. With a strong market position, high adoption rates and industry recognition, BOCHK continues to set new standards in mortgage financing. The bank’s commitment to innovation and customer-centric solutions reinforces its reputation as a leading financial institution in the Asia Pacific region. Contact details: Bank of China (Hong Kong) https://www.bochk.com/
