Understanding the True Cost of Secured Loans

What is the total cost of getting a secured loan? There are several factors that determine the total cost, including the interest rate and payment protection insurance.

How Do Lenders Determine Interest Rates?

The interest rates that you see advertised are not available to everyone. Your credit history and available equity or collateral impact the interest rates of your loan. Lenders also consider the size of the loan and the term. Lenders also develop loan products designed for different types of borrowers. One lender may have the best option for those with bad credit while another offers great deals for those with lots of equity. Many consumers do not fully understand how their credit scores are determined. If you know what is included in credit reports, you may take steps to improve your credit standing. You can pay down the debts that have the biggest impact on your credit score. Your overall credit history includes a detailed look at your outstanding debts, including loans that you defaulted on. Your credit history also includes court orders related to payment failures and bankruptcies. These details influence your borrowing power. Equity also plays a role in how much you can borrow and the rates that you get. The value of your property minus the amount that you still on your mortgage equals your available equity. Based on the details discussed, lenders review your application and propose an interest rate. However, before you accept it, there are still a few more costs to consider. The application processing fees, legal fees, and various additional charges for your secured loan should be included in the final interest rate. The final interest rate is the APR. While you should compare APRs from multiple lenders, you also need to compare the cost of payment protection insurance (PPI).

Do You Need Payment Protection Insurance?

Another detail that impacts the total cost of secured loans is insurance that protects both you and the lender. PPI covers your payments if you get in an accident or become unemployed. PPI is not often included in the APR. When comparing loan options, always look at the cost of the PPI. With these details, you can determine the total cost of the loan. Multiply the total monthly payments, including the PPI, times the length of the loan. Always compare at least three options before selecting a loan product or use a loan broker for assistance comparing options.