Tuesday, July 22, 2008

Comparing Loans Easily Explained

By Chris Channing

Few other types of financial scenarios can be as testing as the loan. Loans can put a family into the red quicker than most would think, so it's good to get the best loan out there. Luckily there are a few guidelines in doing just that- and potentially saving hundreds each year because of a good decision.

The first aspect to compare lenders on is their credibility and reputation. If a lender has a poor reputation, they'll likely be more prone to failure or be more prone to engage in predatory lending. Thus, it's always a good idea to ask friends and family members of their past experiences with loans and the sort. If nothing turns up, borrowers should consult online resources as well.

The APR of a loan will determine how much money the borrower is going to pay over the course of the loan to compensate the lender. The consumer will definitely want to compare lenders based on the lowest rate possible, so they get away with the least expenses possible. Just ensure that a legal consultant overviews the contract to ensure it isn't a gimmick.

Predatory lending is still a problem today simply because borrowers don't read through the contract like they should- or don't hire someone to do it for them. Predators will hide certain clauses into the contract that may give them more profits, or even give them loopholes to take the collateral under unfair terms of agreement. Obviously, consumers should seek legal counsel if they are unsure about a contract.

Everyone understands that the common term for a mortgage loan is 15 or 30 years. But this isn't always the case, as some lenders will be more flexible and allow borrowers to repay them sooner. But be on the lookout for lenders who penalize early paybacks- as they are just looking to make a profit and don't care about getting their investment back early. The term, or period that the loan takes, is also a great way to select the best lender.

Lastly, it's always a good idea to ensure the bank or lender is stable before doing business with them. Economic conditions and poor management makes many banks worldwide fail each day. If a borrower has a loan with such a bank, they may be in a tight predicament, depending on the contract they signed with the lender n question. To stay on the safe side, it's recommended that the borrower only does business with banks that have proven track records.

Final Thoughts

Being in debt isn't fun at all- and staying out of it is always something to strive for. Thus, getting the best loan possible is a real matter for the everyday family or consumer. Rating lenders based on reputation, rate, term, and even predatory lending is vital in getting the most out of a loan.

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