Wednesday, March 5, 2014

How to Access the Best Deal for Your Car Loan in the Current Economy

How to Access the Best Deal for Your Car Loan in the Current Economy

Best Deal for Your Car Loan


Everyone has an opinion on the current economic trends. From reaching a GDP level of 6% to rising inflation, our economy has survived tumultuous phases. Ultimately, it’s the consumer who has to suffer the brunt of the downturns. Unfortunately, car manufacturers are also facing the heat of the inflation as the common man’s car becomes dearer. The solution – opt for car loans that defer the cost of the car over a period of time. The next question concerns its likelihood. Considering the fact that RBI has increased the rates for lending, interest rates are expected to go up. Don’t raise your eyebrows just yet. There is hope for all those seeking a car loan, especially from varied sources.
In the Current Economic Scenario-What Are The Avenues Ahead
Despite the surge of offers available, car manufacturers are finding it tough to woo all customers. Expanding on additional features within the car and better finance facilities seem to be the most attractive option for customers. These days, we find a plethora of advertisements from popular car manufacturers appearing in newspapers and mobile phones. It’s almost criminal to refuse the offers when they offer unmatched discounts and amenities. Chances are that most car enthusiasts have already compared interest rates from different sources to guide their decision for a car loan. And since RBI has changed its lending policy, there is no definite way of judging whether banks have increased their car loan rates, as well. Car buyers should not hit the panic button just yet, here’s a look at how one can get the best car deal for their dream car.
I. Compare the car loan rates of banks and other finance companies: It is always a good practice to compare rates of interest before you sign the dotted line. Analyze competitive interest rates, the terms and conditions for repayment, eligibility conditions and other factors in order to choose the right one for you.
II. Choose a car loan from an understanding agent: This does not mean that one should select a banking agent who does sweet talks. Instead, look for one who gives you a variety of options for your banking needs such as offering better loan terms according to your eligibility criteria. Consider factors that work well for you personally in terms of the term-period for repayment and the rate of interest.
III. Taking a car loan from a manufacturer and a finance company: Several prominent car manufacturers offer good car loan deals from finance companies under the same group, more specifically under their captive finance company. Usually they offer attractive discounts and amenities, along with specific car manufacturers. Sometimes, one finds irresistible deals while choosing a finance company that falls under the same group as the car manufacturer. Even if you do not want to choose the cars offered by that finance company, you are more likely to get better discounts from them than the banks.
IV. Keeping track of the current trends: Reading up on the latest economic trends and the policy decisions made by the RBI on a monthly basis can help you with your loan selection. One of the factors that contribute to bargaining well when it comes to picking any car deal is being aware of the current economic trends. This way, you will be able to judge whether you are getting a car loan at a lower or higher car loan interest rate.
Getting a whiff of the prevailing bank interest rates is always favorable in getting a better car deal. Do not hesitate to check the rates and the terms offered by various non-banking financial companies. Chances of getting a better deal from these institutions are higher. At the end of the day, the choice of a car loan is ultimately dependent upon the car you choose and your financial capacity.
For more details on car loans visit www.mahindrafinance.com/car-loans.aspx
About the author:
Anupama Sughosh , an independent financial blogger
Disclaimer: The views, opinions and investment tips expressed by the author are her own and not that of the website or its management linked within the document. We advise users to check with certified consultants or experts before venturing into any investment decisions.

Thursday, October 11, 2012

Fixed vs Adjustable Mortgage Rates

Fixed vs Adjustable Mortgage Rates
After you've scoured the classified listings online and offline to find the best real estate deals and you’re finally ready to buy a home, you now have to start thinking about how to finance your purchase. Most likely you will have to take out a mortgage, so now one of the most important questions facing home buyers is whether to go with a fixed or variable mortgage rate. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages and will have a huge impact on your monthly payments and the amount of interest you pay over the duration of your mortgage.

Fixed vs Adjustable Mortgage Rates


Fixed Rate Mortgage


As the name indicates, a fixed rate mortgage has an interest rate that does not change over the life of the loan. Usually these loans are over a 30 year span or sometimes a 15 year span. Unless you refinance, the interest rate will always stay the same regardless of any economic or market changes. If market interest rates rise, you don’t have to worry.


If you are buying a home that you believe you will live in for the rest of your life, then this is the mortgage loan for you. In the current market especially, the fixed rates have been very low and competitive. Having the rate “locked in” provides you with the peace of mind of a low and stable interest rate.

There are some potential drawbacks to borrowers however. Locking in your rate usually comes at a premium, so the interest rate is slightly higher whereas an adjustable rate is often discounted. Another drawback is that if there is a significant dip in the interest rate, a fixed rate borrower will not be able to take advantage. Currently however, most fixed rate loans are being priced equally or even lower than adjustable loans.

Adjustable Rate Mortgage


Just as a fixed rate never changes, an adjustable rate mortgage has a variable interest rate that changes throughout the life of the loan. These loans are ideal for people who only wish to make a short term investment or only plan on owning a particular home for a short period of time. They are attractive because they typically come with a lower initial interest rate than a fixed rate mortgage. After the initial fixed period of the loan, the rate becomes variable or adjustable, or you are able to refinance or even just sell the house completely.

The downside of an adjustable rate is of course if market interest rates rise then your interest rate will rise as well. Therefore this type of mortgage is very risky and insecure compared with the fixed rate.

Overall, a fixed rate mortgage is best for someone who wants a low risk, low hassle loan in order to pay for your home over the long haul. An adjustable rate is riskier with more variation but could be a good option for a short term investment or for someone who is market savvy. There are also many hybrid loans with some initial period with a fixed rate followed by opportunities to adjust the rate. An example would be a 5/25 ARM loan which means it’s a 30 year loan with the first 5 years fixed and the remaining 25 years adjustable. Take your time and consult with the professionals at the financial institution you're taking your mortgage at, to understand that is the best solution for you.