Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union,
3305 E Elms Road
Killeen, TX 76542
Telephone: 254-690-2274
www.gctfcu.net

For A Cheaper Auto Loan, Try A Credit Union

If you are looking to buy a new or old car and have exhausted almost every financing option, then credit unions can come to your rescue. Credit unions are the financial institutions set up by a group of people who pool their resources to provide loans and financial assistance to the members. Since they are non-profit organizations, you get expect competitive interest rates and quicker loan approval. These features have made credit unions an attractive option to consider for an auto loan

Benefits of choosing a credit union for auto loan-

  1. More chances of getting loan approved – Although credit unions do check your credit history, they are quite flexible in making a few adjustments in the loan terms. This can come as a breather for a number of people who have not been able to secure a loan from other financial institutions. The loans are usually approved quickly and even the documentation work is minimal. Being a member of these credit unions can add up to these privileges.
  2. Low interest rates –The loans provided by the credit unions are offered at much lower interest rates than any other financial institution. Knowing that, you can have considerable amount of savings on your loan payment. 
  3. Personalized service - Since credit unions are non-profit organizations and strive to provide the best experience to their clients, they offer flexible repayment options on your auto loan, depending on your circumstances. You can even discuss your concerns regarding the loan with the representatives at the credit union. This can help ease a lot of pressure and other issues regarding the loan.
  4. Non sales approach – Credit unions usually follow a non-sales approach and do not try to sell any other financial products to you. Rather, they strive to provide better services to their customers.
  5. Better educational resources – Credit unions also provide you the necessary information related to the financing options and also help in assessing the real value of your car. They work for your best interest and assist you in making the right decision about the auto loan.

Credit unions are a great option for auto loans as the process is very easy and stress free. The staff assists you in all aspects of loan application process. For more information about auto loans, visit Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union. You can call at (254) 690 – 2274 or visit our office at 3305 E Elms Road, Killeen, TX 76542.

Tips On Shopping For Auto Loan In Killeen, TX

Buying a car is one of the major expenses that people indulge in and it is extremely important that all the options should be considered carefully before taking a decision. In order to help you out with the search as well as to reduce your overall expenses given here are some useful tips that can be of great help in deciding your auto loan.

  • Determine your budget: The first and foremost step is to clearly establish what you can actually afford and finalize your budget. This will help you determine which vehicle you can buy, either new or used, and clarity about your financing options. To make this decision you would need to calculate all your monthly expenses and then conclude if you will be able to afford buying a car.
  • Evaluate the cost of the car: Once you have set aside the expenditure plan you should check for your options in that budget. You can look through the internet or visit a local dealer for this however, make sure that you do not exceed your predefined budget.
  • Check your credit score: You must also check your credit rating in order to be assured that your loan application will be approved. You can consult a credit union to avail auto loans at lower interest ratesthan banks.
  • Do proper research: Do not decide on an option before comparing and researching several loan rates. Interest rates depend on a number of factors such as car make and model, your credit rating, the loan term, your financial status etc. Discuss with your agent about all the issues that come up in your mind and have all your questions answered. 
  • Focus on the loan amount: Your agent may ask you to lower the monthly repayment amount to make it easier on your pocket. Even though it may help you to save a few hundred dollars per month but it will add up to the interest rates. Thus, you should focus on lowering the loan amount instead of monthly payment.
  • Consider other finance options: If you are unemployed or not financially stable, auto loan might not be suitable for you. Instead, consider going for secured loans that offer more flexibility and ease in repayment options.

If you are looking for car financing options in Killeen, TX, visit Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union. We offer quick and convenient auto loans at competitive interest rates. For more information, feel free to call us at (254) 690 – 2274. You can also visit our office at 3305 E Elms Road, Killeen, TX 76542.

Home Loan Tips For First Time Buyers

Most people who wish to gain possession of a new house seek for a reliable source of money to help them realize their dream. As a first time property buyer, there are a few things you should consider before getting a loan. They are mentioned below -

Decide the type of house

Before you even apply for a home loan you should be clear about the type of house that you wish to buy. Your options include apartments, duplexes, condos and mansions. Deciding on the most suitable kind of home helps you get suitable terms based on the price of the house (and consequently the return term for the loan). This can even help you score a favorable return term for investing in 'need based' acuity.

Decide the number of years

You as a loan seeker should decide on the number of years that you want to return the borrowed amount over. If you have a decent income and can afford it you should try to pay the debt off in a short term such as 4 or 6 years. The quicker a loan is paid off the lower is the gross interest amount. But before making your mind you should take your overall budget and foreseen expenses into consideration as well because selecting a longer term can help you deal with the costs even if you wind up paying more interest. 

Determine your loan eligibly

You should deal with all impending charges, bills and loans and focus on maintaining a consistent streak to get your credit rating higher to increase your loan eligibility. This will help you file for a loan successfully in the first attempt. In addition you should not forget to carry all the important documents to prove your eligibility.

Know about the charges

You should infer about the any additional charges before applying for the loan. Additional charges include those related to administration, service and any other fees. Also, choose the lender based on the amount of overhead charges charged with the home loans.

Consider credit unions

Finally, look into any credit union in your local area as the interest rate offered by credit unions is significantly lesser than a typical bank. As the very basis of their existence is to help the community the staff at credit unions is always rooting for their clients and goes out of their way to guide them. You can also use such credit unions to address other financial needs such as opening a saving or current account.

We, at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union provide affordable home loans. For more details, kindly visit us at 3305 E Elms Road, Killeen, TX 76542 or call us at 254-690-2274.

Car Buying Made Easy: Credit Unions In Killeen, TX

If you have been thinking about buying a car and are worrying about the finances, then credit unions can be the perfect solution for all your concerns. The easy and affordable car loans offered by the credit unions in Killeen, TX have made car buying easy for everybody. Whether you want to buy a new or used car, there are a number of reasons why you should consider getting a car loan from a credit union.

  • Better chance of approval: You are more likely to get an easy approval for car loans at a credit union than from a bank. Credit unions aim at the benefit of their clients and are even ready to make slight modifications in the policy to suit the needs of their clients.
  • Lower rates of interest: A credit union offers affordable car loans at lower rates of interest than any other lending institution. With such low interest, you can make a lot of savings and invest your hard earned money in other profitable ventures.
  • User friendly loan process: With most lending institutions, the applicants have to personally go and submit the papers for the loan. However, with a credit union, you can even apply online for a loan which helps you save time.
  • Personalized services: Since credit union are non-profit organizations and is managed by a group of volunteer board members, they keep their customers’ interests on priority. You can freely talk to them about the loan, repayment options, as well as your financial position. They can suggest some loan options that could be better for your situation.
  • Resource centers: Credit unions have well established resource centers in order to provide information to the customers about the different financing options and help them in making the right decision.
  • Non-sales approach: Credit unions do not work for their own profit and rather their sole purpose is to provide easy car loans to those who cannot afford to pay heavy interests to the banks.

If you are planning to apply for an affordable car loans in Killeen, TX, visit Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union. We provide hassle free loans at competitive rates of interest. For more information about car loans offered by us, you can call at (254) 690 – 2274 or visit our office at 3305 E Elms Road Killeen, TX 76542.

Credit Unions: A Friendly Alternative To High-street Finance

Financial loans, whether secured from a personal or public source, are the first port of call in a situation where you need to borrow money to gain ownership of a house or vehicle. A loan is based on the fact that the bearer will repay the amount with the said interest over a fixed term. While bank loans are the most popular kind, local credit unions are fast gaining popularity as the preferred alternative to high-street financing companies. With a compelling list of advantages credit unions are more cost friendly and easier to apply to. Some of the benefits of dealing with credit unions are mentioned below.

  • The number one pull of credit unions is the fact that they offer loans at a substantially cheaper rate as compared to traditional banks. The primary reason behind the existence of a credit union is to be able to help the community and all the credit union members. Thus the staff at credit unions helps their members in fulfilling their dreams by providing quick financial assistance at cheaper rates.
  • Credit unions are non-profit organizations and the interest you pay is used to help other community and credit union members. This gives a feeling of helping others while your own needs are addressed simultaneously.
  • Securing loans are not the only purpose that credit unions help with. You can use them just like a regular bank in order to deposit funds, withdraw them, to use locker services, financial advice and many more services. As a credit union is an easy and cheap source to secure loans they stand out distinctly as a more favorable financial institution.
  • The staff at credit unions has a subtle yet different approach to dealing with their clients. They are helpful and focus on addressing all your queries at once, especially the ones related to taking certain necessary measures to qualify for a loan successfully, should you fail in the first attempt.  

There are several other advantages that come with taking your financial dealings to a credit union like access to a well spread network of ATM's and personalized customer support.

Car Financing: New Car Vs Used Car

Buying a car is not easy for most people and requires a heavy investment. Thus some important points like budget, type of car, after sales service and maintenance cost should be taken into consideration when making a car purchase.

Used cars

If you don’t want to invest a lot of money you can choose to get a used car financed. Credit unions have various programs to adjust to your need of financing and offer low interest rates. When you have qualified for a used car loan, you will need to fill a form and your financier will check your credit rating. Based upon this, they will decide the amount that you can borrow and give you different options of the monthly repayments that you can choose according to your preference. After you have finalized the car you want to buy, its details will be sent to the financier who will pay the amount to the seller. It is advisable to have your financing plan ready with you before going to the showroom to make the purchase. Your negotiating skills also come handy while purchasing an old car, as the better your skills higher the chances that you pay less for the car.

New cars

Purchasing a new car is a very huge investment and involves a lot of money. However, most lenders offer a longer repayment time for new car loans as they perform better and stay in good condition. New car loans are often secured against the car itself and the interest rates are also lower than those for used car loans.

The auto industry is rapidly growing and there are a number of car loan plans that are coming out every day. Thus, it is very important that you make a very careful decision regarding which one do you want to buy, new car or a used one, after having considered the pros and cons of each one.

If you want to apply for affordable new and used car loans, you can visit us at Greater Central Teas Federal Credit Union. We offer amazing plans for auto loans to all our customers. For more details, you can call us at(254) 690-2274. You can also visit our office at 3305 E Elms Road, Killeen, TX 76542.

Credit Unions For Affordable Home Loans

If you are looking for a home loan, then there are a number of reasons that you should consider home loan from a credit union. For all those who are not aware about this option, credit unions are financial, non-profit organizations that offer checking and saving accounts, accept deposits, and provide credits for buying vehicles, homes, etc. The credit unions are member owned financial cooperatives that are entrusted with the responsibility of building up the local community. These unions do not have to pay taxes or other operating costs like other profit earning organizations.

Credit unions are exempted from most of the federal and state taxes and are carefully regulated.  These unions do not have to pay taxes or other operating costs, unlike other profit earning organizations, which helps them provide better services to their members. The National Credit Union Administration keeps a watch on all the credit unions and insures that the interest of the members is safeguarded. Credit unions have minimum operating costs and this makes them offer home loans at low mortgage rates as well as low closing costs which provides them a competitive edge over other organizations.

There are a number of benefits of getting home loan from credit unions and some of them are

  •  No fee
  • Low mortgage interest rates
  • Quick closings
  • Personalized service

Most of the credit unions offer a full range of mortgage solutions for buying a home, refinancing and even renovating a home. The credit union does a credit check once you join it and if you have a consistent income and maintain good credit then you can easily qualify for a home loan. Unlike conventional loans, the credit unions do not indulge in many formalities and follow lenient underwriting guidelines. To avail home loan from a credit union, firstly you will need to find a union that can offer you a reliable banking experience. You should research extensively to find a union that can help you and suit your requirements. You can enquire and find out about all the services offered by the credit union. Once you become a member of the credit union you will be provided with financial support and personalized services. By applying for a loan at a credit union you can be sure of easier credit check, low interest rates and personalized customer interaction.

 To avail home loan from a credit union, first you need to find a union that can offer you a reliable banking experience. Research extensively to find a union that can help you and suit your requirements. Find out about all the services offered by the credit union. Once you become a member of the credit union, you can get financial support and personalized services. Unlike conventional loans, the credit unions do not indulge in many formalities and follow lenient underwriting guidelines.

Must Do’s For First Time Homebuyers In Killeen TX

Buying a home is a big investment which requires a lot of hard work. If you have made up your mind to own a house then there is a list of things that you should consider. Home buying can be quite a lengthy process and it would be a safe bet if you have good knowledge about the whole process. Listed below are some of the most important things that every buyer must know before initiating the process of owning a home.

Pre-approval is necessary

Even if you have a huge amount of cash in hand, you will need the help of a lender. It would be good if you consult your home loan financier before even starting searching for a home. During this, you may be asked to provide detailed information about your income and finances.  With the help of this information, your lender will be able to provide you an outline of the cost that you will be able to afford which will be your first guideline to search a home.

Take the help of an agent

Taking the help of an agent is purely up to the personal choice of every buyer. However, hiring an agent can assist you throughout the process of buying. They have a fair idea about the available properties and their estimated market prices while helping you sign a reasonable deal. The realtors will also work out all the price negotiations with the seller.

Signing the agreement

Once the buyer and seller agree upon a price, the agent makes them sign an agreement. This will secure the deal for both the buyer and the seller and will include all the details about the property like the agreed price and the legal description of property.

Financing and Mortgages

You should make sure that you have selected the best home loan option. Credit unions are a better option when it comes to financing a loan. They provide instant approval for various types of secured as well as unsecured loans.

Keeping all the above point in considerations, you can’t go wrong while buying a home for the first time. But, it is important that you choose the correct and reliable home loan plan for you. We, at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union, provide all types of secured and unsecured home loans in Texas. For any information, you can call us at 254-690-2274.

Credit Unions: Auto Loans With Great Options

Buying a car is one of the most important decisions that people make in their lives. It is a one-time investment which needs careful planning and preparation, down to the last little detail. Due to the high expenses involved most people go for financing when they think of buying a car. If you are thinking of taking out an auto loan, you need to find the right place where you can get the best rates and the best repayment terms. Credit union is one of the best options for an auto loan as they offer low interest rates and minimum credit checks.

There are various palpable and distinct advantages of applying auto loans from a credit union To name a few are:

  • Easier Approval – A credit union is one of the easiest places from where you can get your auto loan approved. If you have different needs or are in a unique situation, a credit union is more than likely to listen to you and try to understand your issues. Credit unions are usually more open to making adjustments in their rates and their repayment process while keeping the actual underwriting procedure and same loan application procedure.
  • Lower Interest Rates – If you take out your auto loan from a credit union you can expect a much lower rate of interest than if you approach any other institution. With those significantly lower interest rates, you stand to make long-term savings that you can successfully use in other areas.
  • Customized Services – Since credit unions are in essence non-profit organizations, they attach great importance to customer service. Instead of a corporate office making decisions credit unions have a board of volunteers. This makes credit unions much more accessible and personable as compared to other institutions. You get a friendly vibe and camaraderie with the belief and trust that the credit union has your best interests in mind all the time.
  • Information – Most credit unions have attached resource and education centers with the sole purpose of educating customers about different kinds of financing schemes and decision making. When you are looking to an auto loan financed with a credit union you can be sure to gain the knowledge and the insight to make a learned decision.

To apply for affordable auto loan in Killeen TX, kindly visit us at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union. We have amazing deals on auto loans for all our customers. For more information, visit us at 3305 E Elms Road, Killeen, TX 76542 or call at 254-690-2274.

Refinancing Your Auto Loan? Switch To A Credit Union In Killeen TX

Buying your dream car is an important investment which needs a lot of careful thinking and planning for everything to go smoothly. It is a large, one-time investment which involves large amounts of money, and in most cases, the requirement to take out an auto loan. Car loans can be very expensive with interest rates being consistently on the higher side. With such a significant outlay of money, it is prudent to be careful when it comes to high interest rates and to find a deal where you do not have to spend so much extra. If high interest rates on your auto loan causes you to lose sleep and you decide to refinance your auto loan, a credit union in your locality might be the best option. Switching to a credit union can bring you major savings and can help you get your finances in order while you can still enjoy the benefits of your dream car.

How Credit Unions Can Help

Credit unions are nonprofit organizations and with that status they are in a position of strength when it comes to offering members deals of great value. Credit union members can save thousands of dollars when they choose to refinance their car loans. The procedure involves simple steps and a hassle-free agreement, and you could be on your way to making large savings on your auto loan. Re-financing your auto loan works exactly like re-financing any other kind of loan – you borrow the money from your local credit union to pay off your auto loan, with terms and rates which are remarkably more favorable and friendly.

The application process is quick and easy, and there is not even the need for your car to be appraised for you to get approval. If you are simultaneously paying off other loans, refinancing will almost certainly lessen your financial burden. Savings can range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars- money that you can productively use elsewhere. Also, the earlier you refinance your auto loan with a credit union, the more you can save.

If you want to cut down on your monthly payments, you can change the terms of your loan when you refinance, and spread it out over a wider duration of time which gives you the option to pay lower EMIs. All things considered, switching to a credit union for refinancing your car loan can well be a smart move which brings home major savings.

To refinanace your auto loan in Killeen, visit us at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union. We are located at 3305 E Elms Road, Killeen, TX 76542. You can also call us at (254) 690 - 2274.

GCTFCU Blog | Credit Union Killeen TX | Home Loans, Secured Auto Loan in Central Texas
Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union,
3305 E Elms Road
Killeen, TX 76542
Telephone: 254-690-2274
www.gctfcu.net

Secured Car Loan In Killeen, TX

Secured loans require the borrower to mortgage a valuable asset as a security for the loan. It has various benefits over unsecured loans and if you are planning to purchase a car it is beneficial to opt for a secured loan from a credit union.

Here are some of the advantages of getting a secured car loan from a credit union:

  • Less Income Requirements: You need not have a significantly high income to get approval for a secured car loan. The collateral that you put forward offers a security that in case you default on your repayment, the item can be confiscated by the credit union. Thus the chances of being approved are based upon the price of the collateral. 
  • No rigorous background checks:  As you put up a collateral, a secured loan procedure does not involve major background checks. You are approved quickly based on the value of the collateral.
  • Lower Interest Rates: You can get a secured car loan at much lower interest rates than that for an unsecured one. The lower interest rates also make it easier to make monthly payments, thus, improving your credit rating.
  • Quick Approval: It is much easier to get a secured loan as compared to other traditional loans. As the risk is minimized with a secured car loan, there are no rigorous income checks required to approve the loan application. The staff is helpful and aims to clear your application as soon as possible.
  • Flexible repayment: They give the member the flexibility to pay back over a long time or in big short payments. A longer repayment time makes it easier to pay the loan back.
  • Focus On Customer Service: Credit unions are non-profit organizations that hold customer service as their top priority. Credit unions have well-established resource centers to provide complete assistance to the clients with regard to the loan process, calculating monthly payments, filling application form etc.

We, at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union, provide quick and convenient secured car loans in Killeen, TX. We are a member owned and operated financial institution working solely for the benefit of our clients. For more information about our loan products, feel free to call at (254) 690 – 2274 or visit our office at 3305 E. Elms Rd., Killeen, TX  76542

Things To Consider When Shopping For An Auto Loan

When planning to purchase a new car the most important factor to consider is financing option. Although auto loans have made it easier to buy a car, there are various factors that one must keep in mind to ensure that you get the best deal.

Here are some points to consider when applying for an auto loan:
  • Check Your Credit Score: This is an extremely important criterion to get approval for an auto loan. Make sure you have a good credit score, as it affects the interest rate that you will be charged for your loan.
  • Budget: Get a clear estimate of how much you can afford for the initial down payment as well as the monthly repayments. Calculate your monthly income from all sources and the indispensable expenses to know the money you can spare for the car loan.
  • Check The Interest Rates: Before deciding on your loan policy, compare the rates of interest quoted. Even a slight change in the interest rate could make a huge difference in your monthly payments. You must also decide between fixed and floating interest rates.
  • Select Loan Repayment Period Wisely: When you are shopping for a car loan, make sure you take the loan repayment period into consideration. Although long tenured loans may seem attractive in the first place, you may end up paying a lot more as part of the interest rate. Hence, it is always advisable to choose a short-term loan with 3 to 5 year repayment duration.
  • Skip a payment: You should confirm with the agent if you would be offered the option of ‘ skipping a payment’. You may be offered to skip one payment a year but it is helpful in times of a financial crunch. 
  • Secured Or Unsecured Loan: You also have the option to choose between secured or unsecured auto loans. In the former one, you have to put up collateral equivalent to the loan amount which, in most cases, is the car itself. The interest rates and monthly payments are quite low in these types of loans.
We, at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union, offer affordable auto loans in Killeen, TX. Our application process is simple and the loan is approved usually within a few days. For more details about our auto loan products, you can call at (254) 690 - 2274 or visit 3305 E. Elms Rd., Killeen, TX  76542.

Ways To Increase Your Eligibility For Home Loan

Purchasing a home is usually the biggest investment that one makes in a lifetime. Being approved for a home loan can make the process of owning a home quicker and easier. However, there are various criteria and conditions that you must fulfill to qualify for a loan. A credit union is a good option to apply for a home loan as you can be provided instant loan approvals at very low interest rates. By following certain tips you can increase your eligibility for being approved for a home loan.  

Here are some points that you must consider:

Relaxing the loan repayment tenure

Relaxed loan repayment tenure increases the home loan eligibility of the borrower. This is due to the reasonable interest rate and lower EMI, which makes the lender more confident about the loan repayment.

Paying off outstanding loans

Before applying for a home loan, it is advisable to pay off any other outstanding loans. Borrowers with negligible outstanding loans and good payback history are given priority. However if it is not feasible to pay back the whole outstanding loan amount you can consider providing information about the remaining loan amount. A strong financial background assists in getting approved for a loan.

Clubbing of income

A higher income improves the eligibility of getting approved for a home loan. A family can consider clubbing of income of two or three members to improve eligibility.

Considering step up loans

Step up loans give the option of paying back the total amount in two ways. The first half of the amount is payable at a lower interest rate while the remaining amount can be paid over a period of time at a higher interest rate. Due to the easier payback terms in the first repayment period, eligibility for the home loan also increases. Borrowers applying for home loan can consider these loans for better home loan eligibility.

Consider perks in addition to salary

When applying for a home loan, you can improve your eligibility by providing proof of perks in addition to your salary. It can be income from a part time job, rental income, performance appraisals and bonuses etc.

By following these tips you can increase your home loan eligibility and the chance to own a home. We, at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union, offer affordable and convenient home loans to the people of Killeen, TX. For more details, you can call us at (254) 690 – 2274.

Credit Union For Auto Loan In Killeen, TX

When you are planning to buy a new or used car, the first thing you will probably consider is financing options. Although there are a number of options available, it is always a good idea to shop around to get the best auto loan rates. Credit union is a good option due to the better customer services and loan rates they have to offer as compared to the traditional banks.

Given here some of the reasons why you should choose a credit union for auto loan:

  • Better Chances Of Loan Approval: If you are worried about getting a loan rejected due to a lower income, a credit union might be a better option for you. They offer affordable and flexible loans to suit the needs of the members. They even offer secured auto loans in which you can borrow money by putting a valuable possession as collateral.
  • Lower Rates Of Interest: The auto loans offered by a credit union has much lower interest rate than the banks. Thus, the monthly payments are quite low and you can make huge savings in the long run.
  • Customer Centric Approach: Since credit union is a non-profit organization owned and operated by a voluntarily elected group of people, they have a vested interest in working for the benefit of the members. Any revenue generated by the credit union is returned to the members in the form of lower fees and interest rates.
  • User-Friendly Loan Process: In order to provide the best possible services to the clients, credit union offers a highly simplified process for loan application. There is minimal paperwork and flexible eligibility requirements for an auto loan. The representatives at the credit union provide complete assistance to the clients throughout the process. They also offer instant approval for auto loans, usually within a few days.  
  • Good For First Time Buyers: If you are buying a vehicle for the first time and are apprehensive about the loan process, the credit unions have dedicated resource centers set up to guide you. They can help you to calculate the monthly payments according to the real value of the car. They will also guide you to choose a suitable loan term according to your income and budget.  
We, at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union, offer affordable auto loans in Killeen, TX. For more information, you can call at (254) 690 – 2274.

Secured Auto Loans At Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union

Secured auto loans are a much more convenient and affordable financing option for most people. These require the borrower to put up a personal property or asset as collateral against the loan amount. As a result, the lender gets a security against his money and the interest rates can get much lower.  In most secured auto loans, the collateral pledged is the purchased car itself.

Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union is a renowned financial institution offering affordable secured auto loans to the people of Killeen, TX. The credit union is a non-profit organization and works solely for the benefit of their members. Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union provides cheap auto loans but also make sure that the loan is approved in the shortest possible time.

Benefits Of Secured Auto Loans

  • The entire application process for a secured loan will take much less time as you are providing a security for the money being borrowed.
  • The rates of interests offered in secured auto loans are usually low and fixed. Thus, the monthly payments are quite low and stable through the entire loan period.
  • Since you have pledged a valuable possession for the loan, you are most likely to get 100 per cent finance for your car. Also, the expenses for the insurance and registration could also be included in the loan amount. 
  • Depending upon the value of the collateral, it is easy to get a lower interest rate on a secured auto loan. Thus, the monthly repayments will not be a financial burden and you would not need to default on your loan or lower your credit rating.
While searching for secured auto loans in Killeen, make sure you conduct a careful evaluation of the terms and policies of the ones you are considering. You must know the number of missed payments after which your car will be repossessed and if there is a penalty for the prepayment of the loan. You should also make sure you ask the lender about any discounts or extension possible in the loan period. Finally, the most important points when deciding on a secured auto loan are penalties, interest rates and affordability.

For more details about the secured auto loans offered by Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union, feel free to call us at (254) 690 – 2274 or visit 3305 E. Elms Rd., Killeen, TX  76542.

How To Choose The Right Home Loan

With various financing institutions available today, finding the best deal on a home loan can be an overwhelming experience. When it comes to buying or refinancing a home, it is important that you carefully evaluate the pros and cons of different loan options. This will make sure that you are selecting the most suitable one according to your financial needs.

Given here are some of the important tips that can help you choose the right home loan from a credit union:

  • Loan Term: A lot of people opt for a longer term loan thinking that they can easily repay the amount. However, with this, they have to pay a greater amount of interest. On the other hand, short term loans can help you save thousands of dollars on your interest payments but requires a much higher monthly repayments to be made. If you have sufficient funds to pay off the loan easily, consider going for a loan with an optimum term and easy monthly installments.
  • Interest Rate: Mainly, credit unions offer two types of interest rates to the borrowers, fixed and variable. In the former one, the rate of interest and monthly repayments remain fixed throughout the loan tenure. In the latter option, the interest fluctuates as per the current market rates and so does the amount that you have to pay. It is advisable that you choose a fixed rate for a specific term and switch over to variable when the market rates are low. 
  • Extra Fees: Besides the interest rates, you must also check out any additional fees or charges levied by the lender. These may include the application fees, lender’s mortgage insurance, valuation fees, break fee, penalty for late payments etc. All these can make substantial changes to your monthly repayments. 
  • Additional Features: Make sure you clear all your doubts before signing your home loan contract. Ask your credit union if they offer redraw facility and if the loan is portable. This will help you to transfer your home loan to another property without having to carry out the entire process all over again. You should also ask if they offer any discounts for the repayments.    
We, at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union offer low interest home loans in Killeen, TX. For more information, feel free to call us at (254) 690 - 2274.

For A Cheaper Home Loan, Try A Credit Union

Credit unions are a reliable and credible source of cheaper home loans as compared to banks and other financial institutions. These are member owned and operated organizations working with the sole purpose of benefiting their affiliates.

Given here are some of the attractive features that make credit unions the best choice for home loans in Killeen, TX:

Customers Are The Topmost Priority

In contrast to corporate banks, credit unions work to serve their members. Thus they offer better customer services and spare no single effort to make sure that the depositors are satisfied. They are less focused on making a sale or profit and more on providing affordable home loans at competitive rates of interest. The members of the credit union are given personal attention and customized plans.

Lower Rates Of Interests

Due to being non-profit entities, credit unions are exempted from paying most of the taxes. This makes them able to offer home loans at significantly lower interest rates as compared to banks. Hence, you can make a lot of savings without having the burden of paying a huge home loan interest amount.

Less Restrictive Eligibility Requirements

Banks usually require higher annual income for a person to be suitable to apply for a home loan. Credit unions, on the other hand, do not have such strict eligibility requirements. Even if you have been denied approval from a bank, there are higher chances that you qualify for a home loan from a credit union.

Easy Repayment Options

In case you are facing a financial constraint any particular month, the credit unions also offer a ‘skip-a-payment’ feature for your convenience. Using this, you can easily choose to avoid making the repayment, with the condition that your loan term would be extended for that time period.

Customized Services

A credit union is much more flexible in terms of their loans policies and terms or conditions. It can also offer exceptions for credible members in case any unanticipated issues come up with your home loan application. As the credit union is member focused, it has the right to vote on any matters that can have a potential effect on the rates of interests.

We, at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union offer affordable and convenient home loans to the people of Killeen, TX. For more details, you can call us at (254) 690 – 2274.

Checklist Before Getting A Secured Loan

Secured loans are a type of loan, which require the borrower to mortgage a valuable asset as a security for the loan. People prefer secured loans, as they are easier to obtain as compared to the unsecured loans. The secured loans often come with lower interest rates and allow the borrower to get tax deductions. However, it is crucial to do your homework before applying for secured loans with a credit union.

Here is the checklist that you must consider before getting a secured loan:

Check your credit file before applying

Your credit score is a major deciding factor when you apply for secured loan. It will decide the amount that you can borrow and the amount of interest rate that you will pay. Therefore, it is crucial that you check your credit file before applying for a secured loan. This will help you know whether you stand any chance to be approved or not.

Ensure that you can repay

Before applying for a secured loan, it is advised that you should assess your ability to repay the loan amount. Failing to repay the amount can lead to heavy penalty charges.  It will also have adverse effect on your credit file. By not repaying your loan amount on time, you also put your asset, which you have used as security, at risk. You should calculate your monthly repayment amount by using loan comparison tables to know whether you will be able to afford the repayment amount or not.

Decide the loan period

It is important that you choose the right loan period depending upon your budget. A longer repayment time will reduce the monthly payments but increase the interest amount. Similarly, having a shorter repayment time will involve less interest rate but increase the monthly installment manifolds. Thus you should determine the loan period carefully.

Compare the price

When applying for a loan you need to pay certain costs such as initial valuation and legal fee that are included in your interest rate (APR). You must confirm the costs and compare the prices to get the best deal.

Documentation

Depending upon your credit union and the type of secured loan you are applying for, you may be required to submit some financial and legal documents such as lease agreements, articles of incorporation and your financial reports. You should make sure that you have all the documents required to be eligible for applying.

Why Choose A Credit Union For Home Loans

There are various benefits associated with a credit union membership and one of them is the ease to get home loans. However to understand the process you should be familiar with the working of a credit union.

What is credit union?

Credit unions are financial institutions that offer checking and saving accounts, receive deposits, and offer credit for a wide range of needs such as home loans, auto loans, etc. However, unlike banks, they are member owned non-profit organizations that aim at building up the local community. Due to their lower operating costs credit unions offer low mortgage rates.

Benefits of having home loan from a credit union

Purchasing a home is a daunting task due to the expenses involved. Most people apply for a home loan when buying a house as it makes the process easier. However, it is very difficult and time consuming to get a loan approved banks, due to the formalities and paper work involved. Thus, a credit union is the best alternative to banks for auto loans and home loans. It approves the loan quicker and offers flexibility in repayment as well.

  • Lower rates of interest: Credit unions offer favorable interest rates as compared to banks that help in making savings in the long run. The unions are non-profit organizations and are exempt from paying taxes like traditional lenders. Therefore, credit unions offer lower interest rate on home loan mortgages.
  • Flexibility: Unlike banks, the credit unions are more flexible in the policy and are cooperative with their members. As the credit union is members owned, all the members have the right to vote on important issues that affect the rates of interests. 
  • Lower income requirements: The credit unions may also approve borrowers with lower income. Thus people who might not qualify for a loan in a bank stand a better chance of getting a loan through a union. 
  • Other benefits: Some other benefits of taking home loans from credit union include personalized service in comparison to banks, higher payouts on certificates of deposits, faster closing options and even the possibility to miss a payment.
A credit union surely has an edge over banks and offers many benefits to its members. However, you should consider discussing your case with a consultant to get the full details about your individual case.

We, at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union provide you home loans at affordable interest rates. For more information, you can visit us at 3305 E Elms Road, Killeen, TX 76542 or call (254) 690 – 2274.

‘Skip-A-Payment' Option At Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union

Borrowing money can help ease a difficult situation and bring things back to track. Personal loans like auto loan, home loan and other loans help people overcome financial crisis. However as banks usually have strict conditions along with scrutinizing terms and conditions, people often prefer a credit union to secure a loan. Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union is a non-profit organization owned by its members and offers loans at low interest rates.

An issue that comes up with loans is its repayment. Taking out a fixed monthly payment month after month can be a nerve wrecking experience. There are many reasons that people fail to pay their monthly payments such as loss of employment, sudden unexpected medical expenditures or other expenses, which cannot be avoided. However once you miss a payment it becomes difficult to get back on track and streamline your expenses. In such situations, credit unions are very helpful as they are considerate, flexible and lenient.

Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union have flexible terms and conditions and in certain situations, also offer relaxation to the members who have borrowed money from the union. We also offer the ‘slip-a-payment’ option that helps members pay their payments easily. The skip-a-payment option allows the borrower to skip a payment at a nominal fee. It is available for the members provided that the loan account remains in good standing. Skip-a-payment is usually available on auto loans and RV loans. This option can be availed once per year and the loan should be more than 6 months old. Mortgage loans are however often excluded from this option.

By offering ‘skip-a-pay’ option, you can easily overcome the financial crisis and skip a loan payment without affecting your credit rating. It is however, important to know that “skip-a-pay’ is a temporary option that may offer you relief for some time, but it comes at a cost. Interest still applies on your loan balance and even if you skip a payment it will extend the number of months that you may require paying off your balance.

We, at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union provide you attractive loans at flexible terms. We offer ‘skip-a-payment’ option for members who are unable to make a particular month’s payment. For more information, visit us at 3305 E Elms Road, Killeen, TX 76542 or call (254) 690 – 2274.