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

How To Choose The Right Home Loan

3. April 2015 Administrator Home Loans (0)

With various financing institutions available today, finding the best deal on a home loan can be an overwhelming experience. When it comes to buying or refinancing a home, it is important that you carefully evaluate the pros and cons of different loan options. This will make sure that you are selecting the most suitable one according to your financial needs.

Given here are some of the important tips that can help you choose the right home loan from a credit union:

Loan Term: A lot of people opt for a longer term loan thinking that they can easily repay the amount. However, with this, they have to pay a greater amount of interest. On the other hand, short term loans can help you save thousands of dollars on your interest payments but requires a much higher monthly repayments to be made. If you have sufficient funds to pay off the loan easily, consider going for a loan with an optimum term and easy monthly installments.
Interest Rate: Mainly, credit unions offer two types of interest rates to the borrowers, fixed and variable. In the former one, the rate of interest and monthly repayments remain fixed throughout the loan tenure. In the latter option, the interest fluctuates as per the current market rates and so does the amount that you have to pay. It is advisable that you choose a fixed rate for a specific term and switch over to variable when the market rates are low.
Extra Fees: Besides the interest rates, you must also check out any additional fees or charges levied by the lender. These may include the application fees, lender’s mortgage insurance, valuation fees, break fee, penalty for late payments etc. All these can make substantial changes to your monthly repayments.
Additional Features: Make sure you clear all your doubts before signing your home loan contract. Ask your credit union if they offer redraw facility and if the loan is portable. This will help you to transfer your home loan to another property without having to carry out the entire process all over again. You should also ask if they offer any discounts for the repayments.

We, at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union offer low interest home loans in Killeen, TX. For more information, feel free to call us at (254) 690 - 2274.

For A Cheaper Home Loan, Try A Credit Union

19. March 2015 Administrator Home Loans (0)

Credit unions are a reliable and credible source of cheaper home loans as compared to banks and other financial institutions. These are member owned and operated organizations working with the sole purpose of benefiting their affiliates.

Given here are some of the attractive features that make credit unions the best choice for home loans in Killeen, TX:

Customers Are The Topmost Priority

In contrast to corporate banks, credit unions work to serve their members. Thus they offer better customer services and spare no single effort to make sure that the depositors are satisfied. They are less focused on making a sale or profit and more on providing affordable home loans at competitive rates of interest. The members of the credit union are given personal attention and customized plans.

Lower Rates Of Interests

Due to being non-profit entities, credit unions are exempted from paying most of the taxes. This makes them able to offer home loans at significantly lower interest rates as compared to banks. Hence, you can make a lot of savings without having the burden of paying a huge home loan interest amount.

Less Restrictive Eligibility Requirements

Banks usually require higher annual income for a person to be suitable to apply for a home loan. Credit unions, on the other hand, do not have such strict eligibility requirements. Even if you have been denied approval from a bank, there are higher chances that you qualify for a home loan from a credit union.

Easy Repayment Options

In case you are facing a financial constraint any particular month, the credit unions also offer a ‘skip-a-payment’ feature for your convenience. Using this, you can easily choose to avoid making the repayment, with the condition that your loan term would be extended for that time period.

Customized Services

A credit union is much more flexible in terms of their loans policies and terms or conditions. It can also offer exceptions for credible members in case any unanticipated issues come up with your home loan application. As the credit union is member focused, it has the right to vote on any matters that can have a potential effect on the rates of interests.

We, at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union offer affordable and convenient home loans to the people of Killeen, TX. For more details, you can call us at (254) 690 – 2274.

Checklist Before Getting A Secured Loan

12. March 2015 Administrator Blog (0)

Secured loans are a type of loan, which require the borrower to mortgage a valuable asset as a security for the loan. People prefer secured loans, as they are easier to obtain as compared to the unsecured loans. The secured loans often come with lower interest rates and allow the borrower to get tax deductions. However, it is crucial to do your homework before applying for secured loans with a credit union.

Here is the checklist that you must consider before getting a secured loan:

Check your credit file before applying

Your credit score is a major deciding factor when you apply for secured loan. It will decide the amount that you can borrow and the amount of interest rate that you will pay. Therefore, it is crucial that you check your credit file before applying for a secured loan. This will help you know whether you stand any chance to be approved or not.

Ensure that you can repay

Before applying for a secured loan, it is advised that you should assess your ability to repay the loan amount. Failing to repay the amount can lead to heavy penalty charges. It will also have adverse effect on your credit file. By not repaying your loan amount on time, you also put your asset, which you have used as security, at risk. You should calculate your monthly repayment amount by using loan comparison tables to know whether you will be able to afford the repayment amount or not.

Decide the loan period

It is important that you choose the right loan period depending upon your budget. A longer repayment time will reduce the monthly payments but increase the interest amount. Similarly, having a shorter repayment time will involve less interest rate but increase the monthly installment manifolds. Thus you should determine the loan period carefully.

Compare the price

When applying for a loan you need to pay certain costs such as initial valuation and legal fee that are included in your interest rate (APR). You must confirm the costs and compare the prices to get the best deal.

Documentation

Depending upon your credit union and the type of secured loan you are applying for, you may be required to submit some financial and legal documents such as lease agreements, articles of incorporation and your financial reports. You should make sure that you have all the documents required to be eligible for applying.

Why Choose A Credit Union For Home Loans

5. March 2015 Administrator Home Loans (0)

There are various benefits associated with a credit union membership and one of them is the ease to get home loans. However to understand the process you should be familiar with the working of a credit union.

What is credit union?

Credit unions are financial institutions that offer checking and saving accounts, receive deposits, and offer credit for a wide range of needs such as home loans, auto loans, etc. However, unlike banks, they are member owned non-profit organizations that aim at building up the local community. Due to their lower operating costs credit unions offer low mortgage rates.

Benefits of having home loan from a credit union

Purchasing a home is a daunting task due to the expenses involved. Most people apply for a home loan when buying a house as it makes the process easier. However, it is very difficult and time consuming to get a loan approved banks, due to the formalities and paper work involved. Thus, a credit union is the best alternative to banks for auto loans and home loans. It approves the loan quicker and offers flexibility in repayment as well.

Lower rates of interest: Credit unions offer favorable interest rates as compared to banks that help in making savings in the long run. The unions are non-profit organizations and are exempt from paying taxes like traditional lenders. Therefore, credit unions offer lower interest rate on home loan mortgages.
Flexibility: Unlike banks, the credit unions are more flexible in the policy and are cooperative with their members. As the credit union is members owned, all the members have the right to vote on important issues that affect the rates of interests.
Lower income requirements: The credit unions may also approve borrowers with lower income. Thus people who might not qualify for a loan in a bank stand a better chance of getting a loan through a union.
Other benefits: Some other benefits of taking home loans from credit union include personalized service in comparison to banks, higher payouts on certificates of deposits, faster closing options and even the possibility to miss a payment.

A credit union surely has an edge over banks and offers many benefits to its members. However, you should consider discussing your case with a consultant to get the full details about your individual case.

We, at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union provide you home loans at affordable interest rates. For more information, you can visit us at 3305 E Elms Road, Killeen, TX 76542 or call (254) 690 – 2274.

‘Skip-A-Payment' Option At Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union

11. February 2015 Administrator Auto Loans, Home Loans (0)

Borrowing money can help ease a difficult situation and bring things back to track. Personal loans like auto loan, home loan and other loans help people overcome financial crisis. However as banks usually have strict conditions along with scrutinizing terms and conditions, people often prefer a credit union to secure a loan. Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union is a non-profit organization owned by its members and offers loans at low interest rates.

An issue that comes up with loans is its repayment. Taking out a fixed monthly payment month after month can be a nerve wrecking experience. There are many reasons that people fail to pay their monthly payments such as loss of employment, sudden unexpected medical expenditures or other expenses, which cannot be avoided. However once you miss a payment it becomes difficult to get back on track and streamline your expenses. In such situations, credit unions are very helpful as they are considerate, flexible and lenient.

Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union have flexible terms and conditions and in certain situations, also offer relaxation to the members who have borrowed money from the union. We also offer the ‘slip-a-payment’ option that helps members pay their payments easily. The skip-a-payment option allows the borrower to skip a payment at a nominal fee. It is available for the members provided that the loan account remains in good standing. Skip-a-payment is usually available on auto loans and RV loans. This option can be availed once per year and the loan should be more than 6 months old. Mortgage loans are however often excluded from this option.

By offering ‘skip-a-pay’ option, you can easily overcome the financial crisis and skip a loan payment without affecting your credit rating. It is however, important to know that “skip-a-pay’ is a temporary option that may offer you relief for some time, but it comes at a cost. Interest still applies on your loan balance and even if you skip a payment it will extend the number of months that you may require paying off your balance.

We, at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union provide you attractive loans at flexible terms. We offer ‘skip-a-payment’ option for members who are unable to make a particular month’s payment. For more information, visit us at 3305 E Elms Road, Killeen, TX 76542 or call (254) 690 – 2274.

Questions To Ask When Applying For A Home Loan

5. February 2015 Administrator Home Loans (0)

Buying a new home is an exciting experience; however, it is crucial to be alert while arranging home loan. You need to make sure that you get the best offer to get a good return on your investment. Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union offers a variety of home loan services to their members at affordable rates without heavy credit checks. Although you need to understand all the variables, as they will decide the amount that you will pay.

When you apply for a home loan, you may have many queries in your mind. It is always better to ask the questions to the home loan provider to address your concerns. You should pay attention to the details and make sure that you are satisfied with the answers before you sign the deal.

Some of the questions that you should ask include:

Types of home loans offered

This is probably the most important question that you need to ask the loan provider. Credit unions offer different types of home loans and you need to confirm that the loan that you are applying for suits your needs.

Rate of interest

You must ask about the rate of interest charged to check if you can afford it. The rate varies and members can negotiate the repayment terms.

Queries about the application process

You should ask about the application process and the forms that you would be required to fill. Also, enquire about the documents that you may need to provide for approval such as proof of income, etc. This will ensure that the application process is hassle free and quick.

If you are eligible or not

Before applying for the home loan with a credit union, you must assess your needs and ensure that you are eligible. Your ability to repay your debt may decide your eligibility, as the home loan is a big commitment. The credit union can check your income, other debts and expenses before they approve the loan.

Repayments amount and terms

Depending upon the amount that you borrow the credit union will inform you about the repayment amount. You may be required to repay weekly, fortnightly or monthly and you can discuss the terms with the agent.

Inquire about application fee

Although the credit unions often do not charge any application fee; however, you must confirm it beforehand. Whatever queries that you may have regarding your home loan you should make sure that you discuss with a representative and clear your doubts.

The Perks Of Credit Union Membership

20. January 2015 Administrator Blog (0)

Although credit unions may seem to be almost similar to other financial institutions, but the people having its membership can easily see the difference between the two. Being a non-profit organization, credit unions offer a lot of benefits to its members that are usually not provided by the banks.

Given here are some of the perks you can enjoy with a credit union membership:

Lower Fees And Better Rates: Credit unions operate with the sole objective of working for the welfare of their members. All profits that they earn are returned in the form of lower rates of interests, better services, and minimum fees.
Volunteer Board of Directors: Unlike banks, the functioning of credit unions is administered by a volunteer board of directors. When a member opens an account, he/she is immediately given certain share in the credit union. Every member has an equal say in the governance matters, regardless of the size of their account.
Board Elected By Members: Every year, the credit union conducts elections where the members are free to choose who would be serving on the board of directors. The elected members, then, formulate and implement the policies of the credit union.
Flexible And Convenient Loans: Members of a credit union can avail convenient home and auto loans with easy repayment options. Also, filing for and getting approved for a loan is a very easy process. It does not involve much paperwork and the application is approved within a few days.
Dividend On Savings: The profits earned by a credit union are usually returned by way of attractive dividends on the savings account of the members. The dividend rate may vary from year to year.
Members Have Common Interests: Members of the credit union share a common bond of owning a share in the union. To be a credit union member, the individual must fulfill certain eligibility criteria, such as area of employment, place of residency or affiliations with other institutions. This implies that each of them holds something in common.
Convenient Access To Your Money: Most credit unions offer online account access so that the members can easily view complete summary of their financial transactions. Thus, you either opt for 24X7 access or personalized services during the office hours.

Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union is a leading credit union offering affordable financing services to the people of Killeen, TX. To know more about our credit union, call us at (254) 690 – 2274.

Home Loans: Jargons and Terminology

13. January 2015 Administrator Home Loans (0)

People who have ever applied for a home loan in Killeen, TX know how puzzling and nerve-wracking the process can be. The jargons and terminologies used by the financiers are so complicated that most of the customers fail to understand the basics of their home loan. Due to this, they end up striking deals without knowing about out their consequences. Thus, anyone intending to get a home loan must be aware of the meaning of the commonly used jargons.

Given below is a complete explanation of the common terminologies used in home loans:

Annual Percentage Rate (APR): It refers to the variable or fixed interest rate at which the financier is ready to lend the loan for a certain period of time. Borrowing a loan at a low APR does not always mean a cheap loan, particularly if it is a long term loan. Paying higher number of installments at a low APR ultimately leads to reimbursing more interest.
Comparison Rate: This includes the upfront loan fees as well as the proposed interest rate. Comparison rate will help you in assessing the true cost of the home loan.
Fixed Rate: This allows you to borrow the loan at a definite rate of interest with fixed monthly payments for a specified period of time.
Loan To Value Ratio (LVR): It refers to the size of your home loan in proportion to the actual value of the property to be purchased. For instance, if you borrow $200,000 to finance a home worth $400,000, the loan will have an LVR of 50% ($200,000 is 80% of $400,000).
Variable Rate: It keeps on varying according to the changes in official rates of interest.
Down Payment: When you borrow a home loan, the lender will require you to contribute certain percentage of your own money to buy the house. This initial amount is known as down payment.
Refinance: This refers to procuring a new mortgage loan on an already owned home. This is usually done to switch current loans on the property.
Loan Term: It is the time period before the maturity of your home loan and is usually indicated in months, usually 24 to 84 months. It helps the borrower have an idea about when he is expected to pay off the loan.

For more information about home loans in Killeen, TX, contact Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union. You can call us at (254) 690 – 2274 or visit our office at 3305 E Elms Road, Killeen, TX 76542.

Applying For A Home Loan In Killeen, TX

7. January 2015 Administrator Home Loans (0)

Purchasing a home requires a big financial input and usually people apply for a home loan to assist with the investment. However there are many criteria and conditions that you must fulfill to qualify for a loan. Here are some parameters that describe your home loan endorsement and explain who can apply for a home loan in Killeen, TX.

Salary: One of the most important criteria that you must fulfill in order to be eligible for a home loan is regular employment. The loan providers seek the assurance that you can repay the loan amount smoothly without any interruptions. They make sure that the borrower has enough resources and seek documents such as your salary certificates, etc. High salary increases your chances of being approved for the loan.
Stable job: To qualify for a home loan, you must have a stable job. You must be employed for at least six months or a year before applying for loan to show stability and a regular income.
Existing loans: Before approving your home loan, the lenders may require information about any existing loan. If you have paid off your existing loans, it increases your chances of getting an approval.
Property check: To approve your home loan the financial institutions and banks often check the property that you intend to buy and see if it is built as per the technical and legal norms. They even verify if the property is sanctioned by the authorities. It is crucial that you check whether the property has approved sanctioned plans and complies with the technical and legal aspects.
Having saving account: Most of the financial institutions including banks approve loans for applicants who have a saving account. They often require the latest statement of your bank account to see whether you are capable of repaying the loan. Having enough savings increases your chances of getting approval for the home loan.
Credit score: The mortgage companies and financial institutions check your credit score before approving the loan. Your credit score decides your interest rate, the amount that you can borrow and the loan type that you are qualified to obtain.

You may be required to furnish your personal details by filling an application form while applying for home loan. We, at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union offer easy home loans at affordable interest rates. For more details, call us at (254) 690 – 2274.

Mistakes To Avoid When Applying For A Secured Auto Loan

20. December 2014 Administrator Auto Loans (0)

Applying for a secured auto loan can be a very confusing and deliberating task for many people. There are a number of terms and conditions that must be properly understood before you sign a contract.

Given here are some of the mistakes that people usually make while applying for a secured auto loan in Killeen, TX.

Not knowing your credit rating: Before visiting your financier, you must know about where you stand in terms of credit rating. Contact a reliable institution to know your credit score and the ways in which it can be improved. Even a minor alteration in your credit score can make a lot of difference in your car loan and its interest rates.

Not understanding the loan terms before signing: This is the most common mistake that people make while applying for a secured car loan. It is very important that you carefully read and understand all the terms and conditions of the loan agreement. You should also ask questions and clear all your doubts concerning the agreement.

Exceeding your monthly budget: You should not commit the mistake of buying a loan amount that is higher than what you can afford to repay. You should determine your monthly expenses and decide on a budget to buy a car accordingly.

Not doing enough research: It is not recommended that you visit one lender and finalize the loan procedure. Instead you must thoroughly research the market about the prevailing interest rates on secured auto loans so that you can compare and decide the best deal for yourself.

Not taking the shortest-term loan: As the value of cars depreciate over time it is beneficial to pay off the loan as early as possible. Although short-term loans may initially seem to have higher payments but you would end up paying less interest.

Signing under pressure: Signing the loan contract under any sort of hurry or pressure is another common mistake. Once you have initiated negotiations with the financier you should take your time to evaluate the options and decide what suits you best.

For more information on secured auto loans in Killeen, TX, contact Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union. You can call us at (254) 690 - 2274 or visit our office at 3305 E Elms Road Killeen, TX 76542.