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 applyingYour 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 repayBefore 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 periodIt 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 priceWhen 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. DocumentationDepending 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.