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Tips for Getting The Best Loan With Bad Credit

Approved Loan Store loves bad credit. That’s our slogan because we work specifically with people struggling due to a low credit score. There’s a common belief that because you have bad credit means that you can’t get yourself a car loan. This couldn’t be further from the truth. We aim to make sure that not only are you able to get that loan, but that you have the education necessary for making a good decision.

Fox Business has put together a list of 9 things to look into to get a car loan when you have bad credit. It’s all really solid advice and worth a full read through. Here are some of the steps that really stood out:

  • First step, don’t assume the worst. You’ve been told you have bad credit, but that might not be correct. Make sure you get the full story before jumping to a conclusion. John Van Alst, staff attorney for the National Consumer Law Center, says “Even if your score is tarnished, you may have a better chance than someone with the same score and no credit history.”
  • Shoot high. Since auto loans are less money over shorter time, a credit score that would get you into a subprime mortgage could actually put you into a prime or near prime auto loan. If you have good credit and you try to get a subprime loan, then you may actually get less favorable terms than you should have.
  • Don’t go alone. Make sure to bring someone with you, having an extra opinion by your side can really make sure that you’re getting the best deal. Having a second opinion can really go a long way in ensuring that you’re getting a great deal.
  • Shop loan terms, not monthly payments. What this means is to not get yourself into a loan where you pay small money over a long period of time. The example used is if you need an 84 month loan. If that’s the case, then Anthony Giorgianni, associate finance editor of the Consumer Reports Money Adviser newsletter says, “you can’t afford that car.” Look instead at the cheapest money with the lowest APR over the shortest period of time.
  • Look out for add-ons. Sub-prime borrowers tend to have contacts that are stuffed to the brim with unnecessary goods and services more than a prime buyer. To avoid this, do not let the loan rely on having such add-ons like extended warranties or even insurance.
  • Lastly, beware of the yo-yo. We’ve covered this before in a past blog. Dealers can play a dirty trick where they have you drive off in a car before finalizing the deal. When you return to sign the dotted line, suddenly your monthly payment have increased or they expect a larger down payment. Make sure the terms are final and everything is signed and done before taking a car off the lot to avoid falling victim to this notorious scam.

This is just some of the really solid advice customers should be aware of before heading into a dealership. Make sure you have all the information, and you’ll be able to drive out with the car you want and a deal that works to your advantage.

Approved Loan Store is looking to help put you in that car. We work with people suffering from bad credit and get them car loans. Fill out an application and get the process started, and you’ll see why we currently have over a hundred happy customer testimonials. To make sure that you’re up to date on all the latest blogs, like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.

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Insurance Purchasing Tips

Choosing the right auto insurance is a very important thing to keep in mind for anyone purchasing a car. The problem, however, is it’s easy to get lost when figuring out which is the best. Luckily, the Insurance Information Institute has released a guideline to make sure that people get the best insurance at the best possible rate.

Make sure to keep in mind that an insurance premium is based on a multitude of factors. It can include everything from your driving record, how much you use your car, where you keep it parked, and your credit score. This is why it is important to get educated about all your choices, and the best way to do this is by asking questions.

Depending on the company you go with, your prices and coverage can vary greatly. In order to make sure you’re getting the best, the article recommends that you get at least three different quotes. Call the insurance agents or companies directly and compile information from the internet. Don’t shop by price alone but rather look at an insurance company with a good reputation. Get advice and recommendations from family and friends. Also, there is a state insurance department website that you can peruse.

Premiums are based on the price of the vehicle. This includes the cost it takes to repair it, and factors like the safety record are taken into account. It’s worth doing some research into a car to see how these might impact the insurance cost on buying the car. Know just how likely this car is to get stolen before going in for a purchase, because the insurance premium looks at these factors.

Increasing your deductible is another recommendation. A deductible is the amount you pay before the insurance policy kicks in. If you get a high deductible for your coverage, this can have an impact on lowering the cost of your premium. Just make sure that you have the money in case you have to pay a claim before asking for an increase. You don’t want to be unprepared.

The final tip is to make sure you ask for any and all insurance discounts. The insurance companies have a large range of different discounts they can offer drivers. Make sure that you are vocal in your questions to the insurance agent. Ask them about items such as anti-theft devices, multiple policies with the same company, drivers education courses, good credit record, and higher deductibles. These are just a few options, so make sure to ask.

Some leg work is necessary, but really, when buying a car, you should always have everything ready in advance. This will help to make sure that when you do go into the dealership, you’ll be walking out with insurance that’s best for you. Go online to Approved Loan Store’s website and apply to get a car loan to drive away in your dream car today. Follow ALS on Facebook as well so you can stay up to date on every blog and deal!

Image: Salvatore Vuono / FreeDigitalPhotos.net