GCTFCU Blog | Credit Union Killeen TX | Home Loans, Secured Auto Loan in Central Texas

Buy Car At Low Interest With Secured Car Loan

20. April 2012 Administrator (0)

A secured car loan is one in which you put up collateral as security to the lender before getting the loan. This means that in an event when you are not able to repay the loan, the lender can repossess your car or house, which are the most common possessions used as collateral. The benefit that you as a borrower have is that you get a much more generous loan, which means lower rates of interest and a longer repayment period. If you are looking for a loan for a new car, then your car should be enough as collateral. However, in case of a used car, you might need to use your house as collateral.

Moreover, when you are opting for a secured car loan, the lender is likely not to be too bothered about your credit history, because you are offering him a tangible possession as security, giving him no reason to be frazzled about your not returning the money. This means that you shall need to pay a much lower rate of interest than you would need to in case of an unsecured loan, in which the lender compensates for the lack of security with a higher rate of interest.

Secured car loans usually end up in very easily affordable monthly installments, because of the long repayment period. Also, since the loan is less riskier for the lender than an unsecured one, it means that you are likely to be offered more flexible terms and conditions, including the penalty fee. The overall result is a loan that is easy to pay for the borrower, and highly secure to the lender. The only possible disadvantage when compared to an unsecured loan is that you need collateral. But if you intend to repay the loan over the stipulated time, that should be no problem at all.

Secured car loans also offer an advantage to buyers who do not have a steady income that shows well on paper. That’s because, with the car being used as collateral, the lender is likely to be less fussy about how much monthly income the borrower is drawing. In case you put up your house or property as collateral for a secured auto loan, you might be able to avail tax deductions on the interest of your loan, which is yet another advantage. Just be sure not to default on your loan, and you might actually end up with more money by the end of the repayment period, than you had started off with!

We at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union provide you quick and cheapest car loans in Texas. We neither harass you by asking unnecessary questions nor make you wait for days to sanction your auto loan. To obtain cheap and secured auto loans easily and quickly, visit us at 3305 E Elms Road, Killeen, TX 76542 or call us at 254-690-2274.

Secured Auto Loan - Cheap Auto Loan

Why Is 72-Month Auto Loan The Right Choice?

13. April 2012 Administrator (0)

The loan period is one of the key considerations while deciding what kind of auto loan to get. While conventional long-term auto loans have been for 36-48 months, the 72-month auto loan is a relatively new option. Signing up for this loan means getting a period of 6 years to repay the loan, which translates into smaller monthly payments. However, these loans have been viewed skeptically, owing to the higher amount of interest paid in the long run, which results in the borrower having to pay a larger sum than he would, if he had opted for a shorter repayment period. The benefit of small monthly payments outweighs the amount of interest paid in case of 72 months installments.

The bottom line is that 72-month auto loans are ideal for borrowers who would be at a great advantage, if they had to pay smaller monthly installments. An easy way to judge whether you can afford the car that you are buying, is to make sure that you are not spending more than half of your monthly income on your housing and car expenditures, including mortgage, repairs, servicing, taxes, etc. Going by this criterion, most people might end up buying a car that is in bad condition, because they cannot afford a better one.

A 72-month auto loan liberates you from such constraints, by allowing you to buy a car that is in good condition, without having to worry about monthly installments that will burn holes in your pockets. While it is definitely a disadvantage that these loans end up with you paying a huge amount of interest, when you think of the benefit of not having to dry up your bank account, or put your household budget at stake, they end up being advantageous. Another great advantage of these loans is that most financial banks or institutions shall agree to give you one with minimal paperwork.

Moreover, you get a longer time to use your car without having to worry about it getting repossessed, as you might have to in case of a short-term loan. In addition, you can also refinance your car after a certain period, which would hasten the process of repayment. In case your financial situation improves in a few years, you could even repay the loan before the stipulated time, without having to pay a penalty, in most cases.

To procure instant 72 Month Auto Loan in Central Texas, 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.

Cheap Auto Loan - 72 Month Auto Financing

Things You Need To Know Before Buying A Used Car

6. April 2012 Administrator (0)

Buying a used car is a major financial decision. It’s a risky affair as you just never know what the car has undergone while with the previous owner. It’s more of a gamble and one has to tread cautiously while buying one. A used car doesn’t come with the warranties and frills of a new car. The buyer should be able to differentiate between a consistent, good quality car and a piece of junk. This is a Herculean task for buyers of used cars.

Factors to keep in mind when buying a used car:

The car’s history: Rule out any form of misuse and abuse of the car by the previous owners. You can get a history report of the car by using its VIN number and tracking its report online. This will settle any risks associated with its improper use.
Negotiate on the repairs: Before settling for a used car, try to get necessary repairs fixed by the seller. Check out the car properly to look for anything that might be out of order. Chances are the seller will oblige you with the repairs.
Go for a test drive: Don’t rush into the decision of buying a car until and unless you are satisfied with every detail of it. Consider a test drive to test the power and brakes. Try the horn, indicators, lights and anything else that can be tested on a moving car.
A mechanical inspection: Have a thorough mechanical inspection done on a car you are seriously interested in buying. You can take the help of a friend or relative for this. It is better that a qualified mechanic checks it. Such an inspection involves checking out the engine of the car, its mileage and the general body inspection.
Overall condition of the car: Ensure that the tires of the car are not sagging. Check out the paint, rust spots and scratches if any. Look out for any masking by running your fingers between the panels of the edges. Even look under the car for any under body rusting. Inspect the engine for leaks or corrosion marks. Make sure the timing belt is in good condition too as it’s very expensive to replace.
Mileage: The mileage of a car is a clear indicator of its age. The odometer in the car will let you know its mileage. 10000-15000 miles in a year is ideal. This is the best way to know the actual condition of a vehicle.

For more tips or to avail cheap auto loans in Central Texas, visit us at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union. We are situated at 3305 E Elms Road, Killeen, TX 76542. You can also call us at 254-690-2274

Lowest Used Car Loan - Auto Loan in Killeen, Tx - Secured Auto Loan

Choosing Between Secured And Unsecured Loan

27. March 2012 Administrator (0)

Auto loans have come as a savior to many over the decades, with them making cars easily affordable to all and sundry. Even those who have the complete amount required to buy the car usually opt for an auto lveoan, because they believe that they can generate a greater income by investing the capital amount, than the amount they will have to pay as interest over the years. Getting an auto loan can be a tricky process, with the technical jargon and overhead expenses making the situation more complex. Here, we shall discuss one of the major considerations that any car buyer will have to make- a secured loan versus an unsecured loan.

Just like any other personal loan, auto loans can also be of two types- secured and unsecured. The principle difference between these two loans is that, while the former loans require you to give collateral as security to the lender, the latter require no such security. Thus, unsecured loans are riskier for the lender, which is compensated for by an increase in the interest on the loan. These loans rely solely on the promise made by the borrower, and are rarely offered by auto companies, due to the risk involved.

The major advantage of a secured auto loan, is that such a loan involves a lower amount of interest, which is payable over a longer period. This makes it less stressful for the borrower to repay the loan, with the monthly installments being easily payable. Moreover, these loans are easily available, and are rarely turned down. The few disadvantages involved would be the large amount of paper work involved, the need to get an auto insurance, and submission of proof of income, which might be difficult for those who do not wish to project their actual income or does not have appreciable income to get a loan.

Unsecured auto loans, on the other hand, offer the advantage of not having to place collateral. A good credit history is enough to procure such a loan. Secondly, all that such a loan takes is a single-paper application, with no more paperwork required. This makes it less likely for a borrower to be spoofed with unfavorable clauses hidden between volumes of paperwork. Another major advantage is that the buyer does not need to furnish financial statements. This is especially beneficial for borrowers who wish to keep their income discreet. The major disadvantages of an unsecured loan are the greater rates of interest, and shorter periods for repayment.

To obtain cheap and secured auto loans easily and quickly, consider Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union only. You can visit at 3305 E Elms Road, Killeen, TX 76542 or call us at 254-690-2274.

Cheap Auto Loan - Secured Auto Loan

Car Loan Tips

20. March 2012 Administrator (0)

Getting a new car is a delighting experience but not all of us can afford such luxuries. Most of us would love to buy new cars but when we think of the huge sum of money involved, we sulk and let go of the project. Car loans are the perfect solution for those restricted in terms of money. Such loans operate just like any other loans and different institutions providing these loans have different rate of interest and terms.

Important tips to keep in mind before getting a car loan:

Clean up your credit balance: A history of poor credit can close all avenues of your loan. So the best thing is to have a clear credit slate as this will make the lenders more willing to help you with a loan. Make it a point to clear all your outstanding bills and if you can, try to establish a savings pattern to increase your credibility.
New or used car: Before opting for a loan, make up your mind on whether you want a new car or a used one. The requirements and interest rates of both types of cars differ. If you are interested in a hardy and strong built for your car then an old car could be a better choice. On the other hand, some financial institutions offer rebates and cost breaks for new cars. Consider all these factors and decide what’s best for you.
Set a budget: One can be tempted to strike bigger deals than one thought of when with the dealer. It’s best to chalk out your budget before deciding on the car as this will keep you from overspending. Ascertaining your budget limits will help you get the car financing that suits your credit limits.
Shop around for the loans: It’s wise to take a tour of various financial institutions as this will place you at a better footage to compare the difference in the loan packages. You can compare the rates of a credit institution and the banks. Better interest rates will go a long way in helping you stick within your budget and spend prudently.
Look at the big picture: While looking for a car loan, you must consider important factors like the terms of payment and the number of installments. Less terms of credit do not necessarily imply less future implications. Some financial institutions lure customers with low down payments which eventually translate into high installments.

For more tips or to avail cheap auto loans in Central Texas, visit us at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union. We are situated at 3305 E Elms Road, Killeen, TX 76542. You can also call us at 254-690-2274

Cheap Auto Loan - Lowest Used Car Loan - Secured Auto Loan

Auto Loans: Buying Car In Installments

13. March 2012 Administrator 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

Reasons To Join A Credit Union

7. May 2013 Administrator (0)

Joining a credit union is one of the best decisions anyone can ever make, and if you haven’t joint one yet, it is high time you did! After all, credit unions are among the few financial institutions in the modern world that function on a “users’ first” and “not-for-profit” model. While the principle aim of commercial banks remains to enrich their shareholders, credit unions aim at helping their members. The following list enumerates some of the top reasons to join a credit union-

Better interest rates- Credit unions offer the best available interest rates, making them a great option for anyone seeking a cheap auto loan.
Increased chances of loan approval- If you are looking to get a personal loan, the chances of you getting approved at a credit union are higher than at other financial institutions. This is because credit unions usually know profiles of most of their members, and hence can take non-financial factors into account.
Personalized attention- While you are just an account number at a huge bank, you are treated as an individual at a credit union. This makes it easier to build relationships with the credit union staff, speeds up the process of getting a loan, and makes tackling issues like erroneous fees a lot more convenient.
Lower fees- Right from minimum balance required in your account and compulsory monthly financial interactions, to ATM withdrawal, the fees imposed by banks can be huge. Credit unions on the other hand, have a lot more flexible terms, and whenever necessary charge minimal fees.
Easier availability- Credit unions are a lot more accessible than most banks. You can find a credit union in nearly every neighborhood, and some of these have special opening hours, such as evenings or Sundays, for the convenience of their customers. It is also a lot easier to reach a credit union employee over the phone, as compared to a huge bank.
Education for members- Credit unions makes an effort to educate their members through regular seminars, personalized financial counseling, and meetings for members. For instance, if you are a youngster looking for the lowest used car loan, not only are you likely to get the best deal for your needs and budget at a credit union, but you can also expect to get the right financial advice on whether you are ready for the loan, and how to manage your finances around it.

Is A 72-Month Auto Loan Right For You?

18. April 2013 Administrator (0)

With 3 and 5 year loans dominating the car financing market, most buyers know little about lesser popular 72-month auto loans. While these loans make a car buyer pay a greater amount of interest eventually, they are of advantage to those who can’t afford to pay high monthly installments. If you are considering the 72 month auto finance, the following list of pros and cons will help you decide whether such a loan is right for you or not.

The most obvious advantage of a 72-month loan is the low monthly payments on such a loan. Since the loan has to be repaid over a longer period of time, the monthly payments are low and hence affordable.
If you want to buy an expensive vehicle, such a loan can help you in achieving this dream even if the car is not quite within your budget.
A good question to ask yourself before opting for a 72-month auto loan is whether you are the kind of person who likes to trade in the old car for a new one every few years. If you are likely to get tired of your new car in a couple of years, this loan is not the right option for you, since the chances of you ending up with a negative equity are high.
Another disadvantage of such a loan when compared with car loans of a lesser duration is the higher interest rate that you shall end up paying. While such a loan appears to be cheaper while taking the monthly payments into account, the fact is that you eventually pay a high overpayment amount.
If you have an irregular pay cycle when in some months you earn more than the other months, such a loan would be perfect for you. The low monthly payments make it possible for you to keep up with your payments and even make higher payments on certain months when you have a lump-sum of money.
Such a cheap auto loan is a great option for students who work part-time and make better money during the summer. As long as you are willing to make the payments for the 6-year period of the loan, such a loan can be very affordable and convenient.

To procure instant 72 Month Auto Loan in Central Texas, 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.

How To Pay Off Your Car Loan Faster- Some Helpful Tips

6. April 2013 Administrator (0)

Buying a new car is always exciting and simple auto loans in Killeen have made procuring the desired set of wheels even more easy. However, when it comes to paying off the loan no matter how cheap, most buyers find themselves making the uncomfortable realization of having spent more than they had set out for. If you are stuck with a car loan that is jeopardizing your life and are desperate to be done with paying it, there are several ways you can make that happen.

The following tips highlight some effective ways to pay off your secured car loan faster and hence save on interest payments in the long run-

The first step is to be clear about exactly how much you owe on your car loan. Known as the payoff amount of the loan, this figure is calculated taking in account the amount you have already paid, as well as the payment including interest that you still owe. Knowing exactly how much is still due on your loan can help to create a payment strategy.
It is also advisable to be clear about the terms and conditions of your loan from the get-go and know whether repaying the loan before the scheduled period will involve an early penalty fee.
Talk to your auto loan provider about payoff options, as some of these institutions may have some provision for waving off the penalty if the entire balance is paid in a single payment. If you can afford to make such a payment this could be the easiest way to pay off your loan without any extra penalty.
Another way to pay off your loan quickly is by using any extra cash that you get such as a bonus at work or a cash gift towards your car loan payment.
If you feel that you can afford to make a higher monthly payment for your car loan, this could be an option worth considering. For instance, if your current monthly payment is $200, changing it to $300 could help you to pay off the loan faster, and hence save considerably on interest.
Another useful tip for paying off your car loan is by borrowing off other investments, such as insurance, house equity, retirement plans, etc., which typically have lower interest rates compared to car loans.

We at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union provide you quick and cheap car loans in Texas. For more details, you can visit us at 3305 E Elms Road, Killeen, TX 76542. You can also call us at 254-690-2274.

The Dos and Donts Of Car Financing

26. March 2013 Administrator (0)

Buying a new car is a dream harbored by many, but when it comes to financing a car in the best possible way, not many are well-versed with the process of doing so. Car financing is a major decision, which usually has a bearing on the next few years’ finances of the buyer, which explains why it is important to carefully consider the dos and don’ts of the process before finalizing it. Contrary to common perception, it is possible to get a financially viable auto-financing deal even with a bad credit, and when shopping on a budget.

The following dos and don’ts of car financing guide you through the process, helping you to make a well-informed decision-

Do have a clear picture of the complete price that you shall have to pay by the end of the process, including interest rates and any hidden costs.
Do calculate your credit score using a credit calculator beforehand, so as to have a clear idea of what to expect. This can also be helpful in making amends to any flaws in your credit that can be corrected in the short-term.
Do decide your budget and stick to it. One of the most common mistakes made by car buyers is that of walking into the car dealership without being sure of how much they intend to spend. This results in them financing a car beyond their budget, and hence ending up with monthly payments higher than they can afford, which puts them at a risk of bad credit.
Don’t go to a buy here pay here dealer. While these dealers may seem favorable in the beginning, the usual case with them is that they do not report to the credit bureau unless you default on your loan, which means that they do not help in building your credit.
Don’t buy a car in poor condition. No matter how small your budget, buying a car that is either too old or too problematic will simply increase your worries, with the high interest rates on such a car making it all the more difficult.

We at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union provide you with quick and reliable car financing. Whether you want to purchase a new car or a used one, we have solutions for all your car loan needs. For more details, visit us at 3305 E Elms Road, Killeen, TX 76542 or call us at 254-690-2274.

How Used Auto And New Auto Loans Differ?

12. March 2013 Administrator (0)

When making the decision of buying a car, a major consideration that needs to be made is whether to buy a new car or a used one. This becomes even more important when getting a car loan, since loan terms can differ significantly for used cars and new ones. As a buyer, it is important to understand what these differences are, so as to decide which car loan would be better suited to your preferences. The following points highlight the major differences between a used auto loan and a new one-

Since used cars have a reduced cost, these loans tend to be smaller than those on new cars, which are obviously longer.
The rate of interest on a used car is likely to be higher than that on its new counterpart, owing to the higher risk involved in such a car. In this way, new car loans have the advantage of having lower interest rates.
Used car loans are generally considered to be riskier than new auto loans from the lender’s perspective. This is because these loans run the risk of the car’s value falling below the loan’s value before repayment. It is for this reason that buyer’s might be required to pay a higher down payment on a used car than on a new one.
It is usually difficult to get a loan on a car that is more than ten years old, since such cars are very risk for the lender.
In the long run, the cost incurred on a used car is likely to be substantially less than that on a new car. This is due to the high level of depreciation of a new car when compared to a used car in good condition.
As far as the interest rate is concerned, while the condition of the car and whether it is new or used definitely has a bearing, a greater role is played by other more important factors, such as the borrower’s credit rating and the amount being borrowed. This explains why the rate of interest should not be a major factor when deciding whether to buy a new car or a used one.
It is a good idea to calculate how much you shall be paying at the end of the loan period in both cases, and take into account the depreciation in the car by then, while making a choice between a new car loan and a used car loan.

To obtain quick, cheap and secured auto loans, consider Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union only. You can visit at 3305 E Elms Road, Killeen, TX 76542 or call us at 254-690-2274.

Choosing Used Car Loan Term

26. February 2013 Administrator (0)

Buying a car is a major step for any buyer, and before taking the plunge into bringing a set of wheels home, it is important to have a clear understanding of how car loans work, and what is the best option for you. The length of a car loan is a critical decision, since it bears an effect on the next few years of your life, making it important to know what you are signing up for. Car loan terms can range from as less as 1 year to as long as 6 years.

There is no one perfect term that is ideal for all buyers, since the length of the car loan depends largely on one’s monthly income, and how much they can afford to pay towards the car loan each month. The car loan term is also influenced by the condition of the car, its price, the amount of down payment the buyer is willing to pay, and several other factors. So the question is, if you are buying a used car, what is the ideal term that you should settle on for your car loan?

Let us take a look at both sides of the coin-

Short term auto loan- A short term loan, which is usually con