Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union,
3305 E Elms Road
Killeen, TX 76542
Telephone: 254-690-2274
www.gctfcu.net

Tips To Reduce Your Monthly Auto Loan Payment

23. June 2016 Administrator Auto Loans (0)
If you are planning to finance your next vehicle, it’s a smart idea to consider various options to lower your repayment options. Factors such as the make of the vehicle, total loan amount, existing interest rates, your credit rating etc. play a major role in determining the loan repayment you may have to pay to your credit union. It is also important to note that interest rates for used cars are usually higher as opposed to a new one.

The following tips can help to reduce your monthly auto loan payments:

  • Refinance your loan: The term ‘refinancing’ means to repay your current loan by taking another loan which has lower interest rates. It helps to bring down your monthly payments and allow you to pay off the loan amount in a less period of time, thus making the whole procedure convenient.
  • Extend loan payment term: The longer your loan payment period, the lesser monthly installment amount you will have to pay. Carefully assess your existing loan repayment ability and see if you need to extend the term.
  • Save for down payment: When you think about making an auto purchase, make sure you plan much in advance so you can save up for the down payment. The higher the down payment, lower will be the monthly payouts.
  • Strengthen your credit rating: If your credit rating is strong, it is highly possible that you will get the lowest possible interest rates. This is because a good credit rating assures that the lender will receive timely repayments. Hence, it minimizes the risk for the lender which, in turn, lowers your overall monthly auto loan payment.
  • Shop around: Just as you shop around for your car, make sure you request quotes from at least three credit unions to compare their terms and conditions. Evaluate the interest rates and flexibility in repayments offered by them. Only after careful comparison must you finalize a lender that offers the most affordable auto loan plan.
We, at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union, offer low interest auto loan to the clients in Killeen, TX. Our staff will guide you through the different options available as well as assist in the submission of loan application. For more information about the auto loans offered, you can call us at (254) 690 – 2274 or visit our office at 3305 E Elms Rd, Killeen, TX 76542.

Home Loan Process In Killeen, TX

16. June 2016 Administrator Home Loans (0)
Buying a home is a big decision which may get a bit overwhelming if one does not understand the mortgage process. There are some tangible preparations that need to be made while deciding on a home loan. A credit union works towards making the process as easy and smooth as possible for its members.

Here are the steps involved while applying for a home loan in Killeen:

  • Get a pre-approval: A pre-approved loan will let you know the type of home you can afford to buy. It also assures the seller that you are a responsible buyer and genuinely interested in buying the property. The lender will assess your total income, debts and other financial liabilities to evaluate the loan amount you can be pre-approved for. Once the amount is known, you can go about scanning for a suitable home in Killeen that suits your requirements.
  • Keep all documents ready: All the important financial documents like bank statements, employment letter, salary proofs, home insurance, tax returns etc. must be kept ready. These may be reviewed by your loan officer to assess your borrowing ability and submit the application.
  • Understand loan type: One must decide if he needs a fixed rate mortgage (interest rate stays the same during the entire tenure of the loan) or flexible mortgage rate (interest rate fluctuates according to the market trends). This choice may depend on your current and future financial condition.
  • Closing the loan: Once all the paper work is done with the credit union, the next step is to go through the terms and conditions of the loan plan all over again. You may need to submit a copy of the property documents and a few postdated checks to close the deal.
Your search for your dream home in Killeen will be fulfilled if you have invested enough time in understanding the loan process and making viable decisions.

Contact Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union for hassle free home loans in Killeen, TX. For details, call at (254) 690 – 2274 or visit 3305 E. Elms Rd., Killeen, TX  76542.

Benefits Of Getting Loan From A Credit Union

10. June 2016 Administrator Blog (0)
A credit union is a financial cooperative for the people of a community. Since the purpose is to work for the benefit of the members, it offers home and auto loans at fairly simple terms that can efficiently work in everyone’s interest. Following are some upsides of getting loan from a credit union:

  • Willingness to give loans: Credit unions understand their members‘ needs to take loans and patiently assess their credit history and financial ability to provide them the required amount. The loan eligibility requirements are not so stringent at a credit union which increases the likelihood of getting an approval.
  • Low fee and rates: The purpose of a credit union is not to make profits but to offer financial aid to the members to its members. Thus, they offer low interest rates and processing fees on all loan plans.
  • Personalized service: The credit union board of directors consists of the members and thus you can expect to receive personalized services. The staff reviews your concerns regarding loan term, repayment flexibility and financial needs to offer a customized loan plan.
  • Provide proper education: Credit unions provide complete assistance to the members regarding the financial tools and resources available. Thus, you can seek guidance regarding how much money you should borrow or the premium amount you should settle on as per your financial position. Credit unions have professionals to guide you through the loan process.
  • Unions are stable: Market fluctuations do not make your monthly repayments volatile when you have get a loan from a credit union. This is because the source of their finance is the deposits of other members. This make the credit unions a stable source to finance your home or vehicle purchase.
  • Other benefits: Besides simplifying the loan process, the credit unions also offer many other services for the benefit of its members. These may include wire transfer, savings and checking account, MasterCard, ACH origination etc.
A credit union provides the required convenience and stability that every loan seeker looks for. You may compare the terms and rates from other available options too before making up your mind. It is not a problem if you aren’t a member of a union yet. It is easy to gain membership and reap the benefits of the financial services offered by a credit union.

If you are looking for an auto or home loan in Killeen, TX, consider Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union. For details about our loan plans, you can call at (254) 690 – 2274 or visit 3305 E. Elms Rd., Killeen, TX  76542.

Tips To Finance Your Next Car: Secured Vs Unsecured Loans

21. May 2016 Administrator Car Loan (0)
If you are planning to finance your next car, there are different kinds of loan options available. The two most common of them are: secured and unsecured loans. Both types of car loan options have their own advantages as well as disadvantages. Read on to decide which one is better for you.

Secured Car Loans:

  • Definition: In this case, you need to put a collateral against the loan amount which, in most cases, is the car itself. If you fail to repay the loan in the specified time period, the lender has the legal right to sell off the collateral to recompense the principal amount along with the interest.
  • Rate of interest: The rate of interest offered for a secured car loan is usually less as compared to an unsecured car loan. It poses a lower risk for the lender as putting the car as the collateral reassures that the loan will be repaid in time.  
  • Premiums: Secured loans are generally offered on a fixed interest rate, i.e. your premiums will remain constant throughout the loan term. The monthly payments may also be higher to pay off the loan in a shorter period of time.  
  • Borrowing limits: A secured loan tends to have a higher borrowing limit. Therefore, you can borrow more money to purchase the car you want without having to invest much out of your pocket.
Unsecured Car Loans:

  • Definition: In an unsecured loan, you do not need to provide any security to the lender. The loan is approved on the basis of your income, credit history and other related parameters.
  • Rate of interest: The interest rate quoted for an unsecured car loan varies for each borrower. It may depend upon your income, amount of loan and credit record. The interest is usually higher as compared to secured loans because there is no collateral associated and hence offers no security to the lender. 
  • Premiums: An unsecured car loan can be offered either on a fixed or variable interest rate. Hence, your premiums may remain constant or vary according to the fluctuating market rates. 
  • Borrowing limits: The loan amount that may be sanctioned depends upon the value of the car to be purchased, your credit history and income. You can finance a certain percentage of the total cost of the car and the rest needs to be invested from your side.
We, at Greater Central Texas Credit Union, offer both unsecured and secured car loans in Killeen, TX. For more information, you can call us at (254) 690 – 2274 or visit 3305 E Elms Rd, Killeen, TX 76542.

Do's And Don’ts For Home Loan In Killeen, TX

14. May 2016 Administrator Home Loans (0)
Getting a loan for your dream home can be tricky because you need to be aware of all the procedures and documentation involved. Before applying for a home loan in Killeen, TX, be clear about your budget and the term period for which you want the loan. Below is a detailed list of various do’s and don’ts that you must follow:

DO’S:

  • Know what you can afford: Before submitting the application, you need to finalize the home that you want to buy. The value of your home will have a direct impact on your monthly loan payments. Evaluate all your expenses to determine the amount that you can easily pay towards the home loan every month. Make sure you choose a home that suits your budget.
  • Conduct thorough research: You need to conduct proper research while choosing your loan. Check all the options and available loan plans from various financial institutions before making any decision. It is wise to choose a loan that allows you to prepay the amount at any point of time without levying any additional charge.
  • Keep your EMIs unaltered: It is best to choose a loan which has unaltered EMIs as you will not have to worry about variation in interest rates during the tenure of the loan. If you are in a position to prepay the loan at any point of time during your loan period, request for a reduction in the number of your EMIs. Therefore, always settle on an EMI that you can comfortably pay without putting a burden on your pocket.
DON’TS:

  • Change jobs before closing the home loan: It is imperative not to change jobs till your home loan is closed. Make sure you talk to your mortgage provider before taking this step of changing your job and ask if it would have any effect on the terms and conditions of your loan.
  • Ignore additional costs: Apart from the home loan and interest, you may also have to incur other charges such as brokerage fees, loan fees, stamp duty etc. Therefore, do not forget to keep a check on the additional costs while finalizing your budget for the home loan.
  • Make a hasty or uniformed decision: It is best not to make a hasty decision while deciding the loan plan. Get a quote from at least three home loan providers in Killeen before choosing the one that suits you the best.
We, at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union, offer low interest home loans in Killeen. For more information, you can call us at (254) 690 – 2274.

Credit Unions In Killeen: Membership Benefits

6. May 2016 Administrator Car Loan, Home Loans (0)
Credit unions are non-profit organizations that provide low interest loans and work towards providing maximum benefits to the members. The high quality of services offered to the members is one of the major advantages that draw people towards credit unions in Killeen, TX.

Listed below are some other membership benefits associated with a credit union:

  • Low rates of interest: The home and auto loans offered at a credit union are quite affordable which helps the members in saving a lot of money. Also, credit unions generally put forward higher returns on savings and certificates. A credit union can provide better rates of interest because it gives all the profits directly back to the members. There are no stakeholders who need to be given a share in the profits. Apart from the low rates of interest, credit unions also offer low-rate credit cards to the members. This also adds up to a significant amount of savings.
  • Equal rights: A credit union is basically member-based organization where every member shares an equal right to select the board of directors. The right to vote does not depend on the amount of money you have in your account. 
  • Superior quality of service: The staff at a credit union provides personal attention to each client and work towards achieving maximum client satisfaction. The service representatives are extremely well-informed and help the clients in resolving any issues associated with financial transactions.
  • Well-developed online system and ATM network: A credit union offers various online services for the convenience of their members. You can obtain all the information pertaining to your account with just a click of the mouse. You can even make online bill payments easily. Apart from this, a broad network of ATMs located in thousands of locations across Killeen allows you to withdraw money whenever required.
  • Community Service: There are a large number of credit unions that organize different kinds of activities to make the members aware about effective management of their finances. Therefore, they are extremely helpful as a community service organization.
Be a member of Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union to have access to low interest loans and various other financial services. For more information about the credit union in Killeen, TX, call at (254) 690 – 2274 or visit 3305 E. Elms Rd., Killeen, TX  76542.

Credit Union Killeen - Apply Home Loan At Low Interest Rate

23. April 2016 Administrator Home Loans (0)
A credit union is basically a financial cooperative that offers home loans on membership basis at very low interest rates. It is customer-centric and works towards providing benefits to the members. Moreover, there are no minimum balance requirements, very less charges and all the accounts are federally insured.

Besides providing affordable financial services, a credit union has a number of benefits to offer as far as home loans are concerned. Low interest rates and minimal or no additional charges make credit unions a suitable option to get mortgage for your home. So, if you are also looking to apply for a home loan in Killeen, read on to know the advantages that you can enjoy as a member of a credit union:

  • Customer satisfaction: A credit union is a non-profit organization which works solely for the contentment of its members and give out all the monetary benefits to their members. Therefore, in order to get a home loan from a credit union, all you need to do is become its member and fulfill the specified terms and conditions. Once you become a member of the credit union, you are entitled to get lifetime benefits.
  • Get lower interest rates: If you apply for a home loan at a credit union, you will get the advantage of paying a lower rate of interest. This eventually means higher savings in the longer run. You can also compare the interest rates offered by various credit unions in Killeen and make a decision accordingly.
  • Large network of branches: Most of the credit unions belong to larger networks and therefore have several branches as well as ATMs available for the convenience of their members. So, the clients can easily handle their financial transactions from multiple locations across the city.
  • Lower fees: A credit union offers flexibility in terms of rates and fees charged for the home loan. The aim is to keep the fees as low as possible. You will be generally paid higher yields on savings and certificates.
  • Do online transactions: You can pay your monthly home loan installments either through check or online. You can also obtain all the loan information online and make bill payments. This means you can handle your accounts conveniently from anywhere.
Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union is a leading credit union in Killeen, TX. We offer low interest home loans with minimal paperwork and easy repayment options. For details, you can call at (254) 690 – 2274.

Steps To Get Best Deal On A Car Loan In Killeen, TX

15. April 2016 Administrator Car Loan (0)
Buying a new car requires a good auto loan deal to make the process smooth and quick. After finalizing the car that you want to buy, it is important to determine the amount of loan that you will require. Be clear about the down payment you will be able to make easily. Also, check out the interest rates being offered by various credit unions to settle for a loan plan that best suits your pocket.

Below are some steps that can help you get the best deal on a car loan:

  • Gather detailed information about your credit history: Get copies of your credit reports to know your eligibility for applying for a car loan. Keep this information handy as you may be required to present the document when applying for the loan. Every credit union has a different eligibility for a car loan, so it is better to inquire beforehand. The interest rates you will be offered will depend a lot on your credit score.
  • Do your homework: It is imperative to shop around in order to look for the best deal on a car loan. Compare the interest rates offered by various credit unions in Killeen and opt for the one that complies with your budget. Do not forget to thoroughly read the terms and conditions of the loan plan you are considering. This will clarify all the rules and regulations of your car loan as well as avert any problems in the future.
  • Choose a shorter loan term: Although a long term loan will reduce your monthly cost, it will significantly add up to the total interest payments. So, it is better to limit your auto loan to the shortest time period that you can afford as this will help you repay your loan faster. Compare the loan terms of various credit unions to make a wise decision.
  • Concentrate on the total cost: It is important to focus not only on the monthly payments but on the total cost of the loan, including the interest payments. In order to cut down on your loan amount, you can consider paying a higher down payment towards your new car purchase.
  • Ask for cash discounts: You can ask for cash discounts from your car loan dealer. These discounts can contribute towards the down payment for the car. It is better to go in for cash discounts rather than asking to lower your monthly EMI.  
We, at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union, offer affordable auto loans in Killeen, TX. We offer a wide range of loan plans with easy repayment options. For more information, you can call us at (254) 690 – 2274 or visit 3305 E. Elms Rd., Killeen, TX  76542.

Financing Your Car With Credit Union In Killeen

8. April 2016 Administrator Blog, Car Loan (0)
If you are planning to purchase a new or used car, financing it must be on your mind. A credit union is one of the safest and easiest ways to procure a car loan. You can choose from a wide range of loan plans, depending upon your budget and financing requirements.  

Here are some benefits of first approaching your local credit union in Killeen, TX for an auto loan:

  • Chances of approval are more: Credit union is open to listening to the back stories of its members and then deciding on the loan terms. If you are worried about little or no credit history, you may discuss your concerns with the staff and figure out the best way to get the desired loan amount.
  • Convenience: The inter-personal approach of the credit union makes it convenient to apply for the loan even before you make the purchase. A pre-approved loan in your hand helps you to fix the budget for the car and spend prudently.
  • Competitive interest rate: Credit union offers low interest rates which keep your monthly payouts on lower side. Since they know credit history of their members closely they are likely to keep their interests in mind before sanctioning the loan.
  • Bundling: If you have an ongoing loan with the credit union , such as for your home, your interest rate may further be lowered, making it a better deal for you as they encourage bundling.
  • Personal touch: A credit union is a non-profit organization that works for the community. You can get proper knowledge and education about all financing tools in a personal manner at a credit union. The staff takes the time to help clients understand the loan details in order to make a well-informed decision.
  • Educated advice: Credit union has dedicated financial experts who are committed to provide information about financial products to the members. Their aim is to keep everyone informed of new policies and rates. This non-sales approach helps the members to build confidence.
  • Provide stability: Credit union is operated by the members and for the members. They plough back all their profits back in to improving the services for members. This gives them stability and they are not likely to be affected by profit motives.
Research all available options thoroughly before making up your mind. Compare interest rates and terms of loan by reading all documents carefully.

We, at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union, offer affordable auto loans in Killeen, TX. For more information, you can call us at (254) 690 – 2274.

Tips When Buying A Luxury Car Loan In Killeen, TX

21. March 2016 Administrator Auto Loans (0)
Owning a luxury car is a dream for many in Killeen, TX. However, buying an expensive vehicle is not within reach many a times and getting a loan is a convenient way to fulfill that dream. Getting a car loan is not difficult but you need to be sure that the loan amount can be repaid easily. Analyze your budget and calculate if you will have enough money for your expenses after paying for the monthly installment along with the interest rate.

Below is a list of some tips that can be utilized when getting a luxury car loan in Killeen:

  • Research: It is important to conduct a thorough research regarding the loan plans being offered by various credit unions. Browse through the internet and read the reviews to decide from which lender you want to get a loan. Compare the plans from at least three providers before making a decision.
  • Interest rate: Interest rate is a crucial factor when applying for a car loan as it eventually decides the EMI that you need to pay every month. A minimal increase in the interest rate can cause a major jump in the monthly installments. Identify the best deal and it is better to opt for a floating rate of interest if you want a loan for a short period of time. On the other hand, go for a fixed rate of interest if you want to opt for a longer tenure loan.
  • Processing fee: Every credit union has its own method of calculating the processing charges for a car loan. Some credit unions use fixed percentage of their loan as processing fee. On the other hand, many lenders also have flat rate processing fee. Decide on what suits your requirement and the amount you can easily afford to repay.
  • Down payment: Down payment is the lump sum money that needs to be paid at the commencement of the loan term. Therefore, you need to have some amount of cash ready for down payment. Take note that lesser down payments will eventually increase your monthly EMIs. So, you need to decide according to the financial resources available to you.
  • Loan term: It is best to avoid long term loans as this can lead to an increase the interest payments made during the loan tenure. On the other hand, a short term will help you in saving on the interest cost. Depending on your financial standing, you can decide on the car loan term.
  • Prepayment charges: The lender can levy prepayment charges if the borrower is able to return the complete or partial loan amount before the end of the loan term. Therefore, you need to be aware if your credit union levies any such charges.
We, at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union, offer affordable car loans in Killeen, TX. For more information, you can call at (254) 690 – 2274.