Russia simplifies preferential mortgages for self-employed and small business owners

Self-employed individuals and small business owners in Russia will soon have easier access to preferential mortgages through state-backed microfinance organizations. This new law, effective late October 2025, aims to help "non-standard" borrowers, including freelancers and those with correctable credit histories, who struggle with traditional bank income verification for state mortgage programs. The initiative will utilize regional state-owned microfinance organizations to offer alternative housing loan channels, complementing existing banking services and potentially reducing reliance on expensive consumer loans.