How to get a loan in the credit crunch
Over the past two years or so, borrowing money - whether it`s a personal loan or a mortgage - has been a lot more difficult than it has been in recent years.
After years of high levels of lending, lenders became concerned about the amount of (potentially) `bad debt` in the economy - and reined in their own lending.
Because of this, many people believe that they simply won`t be able to get a loan. However, this is not true - finding a loan may still be possible, if you go about it the right way.
How to improve your chances of getting a loan
There are a few things you can do to improve your chances of being offered the loan you`re looking for.
Be realistic
The interest rate you are likely to be offered - and your overall chance of being accepted - will depend largely on your credit history. It`s reasonable to assume that if you have always made payments on time in the past, you will have a good credit history, whereas if you have missed payments in the past, your credit history will be poor.
With that in mind, consider your loan application carefully. If you have struggled in the past, you may have more success with a lender that specialises in loans for people with a bad credit rating.
Also, think carefully the type of loan you want. Secured loans may be easier to obtain than unsecured loans, since your home is placed as security against the loan - but remember that if you miss payments, there`s a chance your home could be repossessed.
Check your credit report
Your credit report shows how you`ve handled your finances in the past (usually over the past six years). Lenders can look at this information when they`re considering your application, so it`s well worth obtaining a copy so that you can check everything is up-to-date and correct.
If there is any incorrect information on your credit report, your chances of getting a loan could be affected - but you have the right to apply to have it corrected.
Your credit report can be obtained from any of the UK`s three credit reference agencies: Equifax (www.equifax.co.uk), Experian (www.experian.co.uk) and CallCredit (www.callcredit.co.uk).
Pay down existing debts
If you have any outstanding debts - such as credit cards or overdrafts - your application for a new loan could be affected, since lenders might feel these could affect your ability to cope with any new debts.
It`s worth repaying as much of this debt as possible to improve your chances of being offered a new loan.
Besides, if you already have a lot of debt that you can`t clear, you should carefully consider whether it`s a good idea to take on another loan.
Speak with a professional loans adviser Searching the market for the best loan deal can be time-consuming, so it`s worth speaking with a professional loans adviser. They can point you in the direction of the right deal for you, based on your circumstances.
If you`re looking for a loan, click here or speak to one of our expert loans advisers today on 0800 195 2910.
Fill in our form for your free loan quote
Tags: loan, loans, credit crunch, recession, getting a loan, get a loan, how to get a loan, find a loan, get loan