Update (April 2026): LARIBA (American Finance House LARIBA) merged into UIF Corporation on April 1, 2026, and no longer accepts new home financing applications under the LARIBA name. Existing LARIBA customers are now serviced by UIF — including from LARIBA's former Whittier, CA office — and new halal home financing applications go through UIF. The review below is preserved as a reference to how LARIBA's program worked.
LARIBA is one of the oldest Islamic home financing providers in the United States. The company offers a home financing model designed to avoid interest while still allowing Muslims to purchase property.
For many Muslim homebuyers in the U.S., LARIBA is often one of the first providers they encounter when searching for halal mortgage alternatives.
In this review, we break down how LARIBA home financing works, its structure, and what to consider before applying.
If you are new to halal home financing, start with this guide:
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What Is LARIBA?
LARIBA is an Islamic finance company that provides home financing based on a model designed to comply with Islamic financial principles.
The company operates through the Bank of Whittier and offers financing for primary homes, refinancing, and some investment properties.
LARIBA has been active in the U.S. Islamic finance space for decades and is often referenced in discussions about halal mortgage alternatives.
How LARIBA Home Financing Works
LARIBA uses a financing model commonly referred to as the “mark-to-market” approach.
Instead of charging interest on a loan, the model attempts to determine the fair market rental value of a property and structure payments around that value.
The concept is that the monthly payment reflects the economic value of using the property rather than paying interest on borrowed money.
While the exact structure may vary depending on the transaction, the model is designed to avoid traditional interest-based lending.
Types of Financing LARIBA Offers
LARIBA provides several types of home financing options.
- Home purchase financing
- Home refinancing
- Primary residence financing
- Some investment property financing
Availability can vary depending on the property type and borrower qualifications.
LARIBA vs Other Islamic Mortgage Providers
LARIBA is one of several companies offering halal home financing in the United States.
Different providers use different Islamic finance structures.
- LARIBA uses a mark-to-market financing approach
- Guidance Residential uses a declining balance co-ownership model
- Some providers structure financing using Murabaha-style contracts
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Who LARIBA Home Financing May Be Good For
LARIBA may be a good option for Muslim homebuyers who want a financing structure designed to avoid traditional interest.
It may also appeal to buyers who prefer LARIBA’s specific interpretation of Islamic financing principles.
However, as with any financing product, it is important to understand the structure and consult knowledgeable advisors if you have questions.
Things to Consider Before Applying
Before choosing any halal mortgage provider, it is important to evaluate several factors.
- The financing structure used by the provider
- Down payment requirements
- Monthly payment expectations
- Availability in your state
Comparing multiple providers can help you better understand the options available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is LARIBA halal?
LARIBA structures its financing model with the goal of avoiding interest and aligning with Islamic finance principles. However, different scholars and individuals may have different perspectives, so it is important to understand the structure before making a decision.
Does LARIBA offer refinancing?
Yes. LARIBA offers refinancing options for homeowners who want to move away from conventional mortgages.
Is LARIBA available nationwide?
LARIBA financing is available in many U.S. states, although availability may vary depending on the property and transaction.
The Bottom Line
LARIBA is one of the longest-standing Islamic home financing providers in the United States.
Its mark-to-market financing approach is designed to avoid traditional interest while allowing Muslims to purchase homes.
If you are exploring halal home financing options, it can be helpful to compare several providers before making a decision.
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