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

Is Buying A Used Car A Good Idea?

Almost everyone dreams of owning a high-end car but in most of the cases financial constraints doesn’t let them own one. Fortunately, there is a solution to it. If you can’t afford buying a new car, then go for a used one!
Used cars are known to give the best value for money. It is a fact that a new car depreciates faster, usually in first three or four years. After this time period, a car is worth only around 60% of its original price. So you get a chance of owning a late-model car at relatively low prices.

But while buying a used vehicle, you need to consider various factors to avoid any kind of problem later on. These factors are:

  • Reliability: Buying a late-model used car is not much of a risk than the older ones. If you maintain the car, it will give a great performance with no major breakdowns.
  • Warranties: Car usually faces very few problems in its early years and all the minor problems are covered by the warranty provided. But the case is completely different with a used car. It either is coming off warranty or is already off. You may have to pay for repairs from your pocket.
  • Repair: The tires, brakes and battery are needed to be considered first as these are the high-wear items in the car. Inspect the car well before purchasing and make sure that the car does not need much repair.
  • Depreciation: It depends on various factors such as the popularity of a model, its quality, supply etc. A car tends to depreciate in value in its early years.
  • Safety: Always look for safety features such as antilock brakes, traction control, and side air bags are add on features.
  • Rate of interest: If you are opting for auto loan, you may get lowest interest rates if you choose a reliable loan providing source.

Always remember that you should not look for the cheapest car. Particularly when you are buying a used car, you must go for the best deal keeping in mind the good condition, least repairs, fewer troubles etc.

To avail cheap and secured used auto loans, visit us at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union at 3305 E Elms Road, Killeen, TX 76542 or call us at 254-690-2274.

Lowest Used Car Loan - Cheap Auto Loan

Looking For Cheap Auto Loans In Killeen?

A majority of people postpone buying cars just because they do not have enough money for the same. If you are amongst the ones who have postponed buying their dream car due to financial constraints, you will be glad to know that various secured and unsecured auto loan plans can help you. You can choose from various auto loan plans, loan tenures etc that will suit your financial budgets.

What are secured and unsecured loans? A secured loan is backed by some collateral having value equal to or greater than the loan amount. It offers you flexibility to repay the amount at a reduced rate of interest. Whereas an unsecured auto loan on other hand does not make you pledge any collateral to the loan provider. It is simply granted on the basis of your monthly income as well as expenses. Though one can find a number of banks and auto loans providers in Killeen, but choosing the right one is extremely important. While selecting an auto loan, you should look into any hidden charges, interest rates, loan tenure etc being offered by financial service provider and should compare it with others.

We at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union provide you quick and cheapest car loans in Texas. We neither harass you ask you by asking unnecessary questions nor make you wait for days to sanction your auto loan. We are renowned to approve your loan within 24 - 48 hours from the time we receive your completed application and verification of income.

If you are planning to buy a car, truck, van or any other vehicle, visit us today and avail the cheapest auto loans in Killeen. We also provide quick used car loans. All you need to do is fill in your details in the used auto loans application form. We will get back to you in 24 hours and provide you cheap auto loans.

For Cheap Auto loans in Central Texas visit us at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union 3305 E Elms Road, Killeen, TX 76542. You can also call us at 254-690-2274.

Cheap Auto Loan - Secured Auto Loan

Low Interest Auto Loans At Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union

The Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union is a Killeen based financial institution that helps provide cheap auto loans to those who wish to invest in a new vehicle. As cars these days can turn out to be quite expensive, we provide low interest auto loans that can help finance your vehicle to a significant extent. We offer different kinds of interest rates on our auto loans depending on your credit ratings and your loan history. If you have exercised good borrowing practices and repaid your existing loans in a timely manner along with the accumulated interest rates, you will be granted a loan by us in a matter of a few hours. The interest rates enjoyed by those who have a good credit history also tend to be much lower than those who have defaulted in their past loans.

We do not follow lengthy and complicated application procedures that can be quite a turn off for potential borrowers. On the other hand, we have a very simple screening process that you can even choose to complete online by logging onto our official website. A few necessary documents as prescribed by USA Patriot Act 2000 may be necessary so that we can positively establish your identity. The necessary documents can be mailed or faxed to the address provided on our website. We follow a set of pre defined parameters to determine the rate of interest that we are going to charge for each kind of auto loan depending on the price of the vehicle you wish to buy and the financial information provided by you. This is done in order to assess your ability to repay the auto loan that is being taken.

We also have special offers that allow you to avail discounts depending on the kind of credit card you hold. Master card and visa card owners can enjoy hefty discounts in auto loans as well as in other kinds of loans being offered by us. You can either apply for a secured or an unsecured loan depending on your particular needs.

For more details on auto loans in all credit situations, visit us at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union, 3305 E Elms Road, Killeen, TX 76542. You can also call us at 254-690-2274.

Cheap Auto Loan - Lowest Used Car Loan

What Are The Benefits Of Secured Loans?

Secured Loans have gained more popularity as compared to the unsecured loans these days. People usually turn to opt for consumer finance that provides them with the better deals with low interest rates. They look for a financial solution that caters to their specific needs and requirements for a loan. Secured loans are more in demand now as they are more affordable and provide good value. Secured loans can be taken for variety of needs; be it auto financing, buying a house, or simply a personal loan, secured loans are the best bets.

Secured loans are called so as they are given against some collateral and thereby, have more benefits than the unsecured ones. Some of the benefits of secure loans are:

  • Secured loans are one of the most cost effective options available in the market as they are guaranteed by personal property or collaterals, which enable the borrowers to take loan quite easily.
  • Secured loans offer high borrowing levels as compared to the unsecured loans. The amount of the loan depends on the equity with longer repayment periods.
  • Secured loans are easily accessible and one can consolidate other loans and credits as well. You can also use secured loans to repair your previous credit structure and pay off some debts too.
  • Secured loans are more affordable loans and you can get more competitive deals on it with a better repayment structure and interest rates. 
  • Most of the secured loans can be processed quickly these days and you can avail huge benefits on it with timely repayment of the loan.
  • In case of secured loans for getting higher loan amounts, you can get it against collateral of similar value.

If you are planning to buy a new car, you can get 72 month auto loans to buy your new car which will prove to be cost effective.  For more details on wide range of secured auto loans in all credit situations, you can contact Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union, 3305 E Elms Road, Killeen, TX 76542 or you can call at 254-690-2274.

Secured Auto Loan - Lowest Used Car Loan

Types Of Auto Loans In Texas

Whenever you feel the need of purchasing a new car but don’t have sufficient amount of finances, Auto Loans provide you with an opportunity to bear the cost without letting your dream go. Auto loans have become a much needed thing now-a-days. It is always advised to opt for the specific type of car loan as per your needs and requirements so that the budget could be well managed in hand. An auto loan helps in better control over the finances and makes the purchase more organized.

You should carefully choose among the various types of auto loans that are provided by various banks and financial institutions. Some of the major types of auto loans that are available in Texas are given below as:

  • Long term auto loan - Car loan is given for a long term for the purchase of a brand new car. Long term auto loans usually lasts for a period of 60 months or 72 months and it may feature small monthly payments as well.
  • Short term auto loan - It generally has a higher monthly EMI. As the time period for repayment is short, the total interest paid in this case is less.
  • Used auto loan - The auto loans which are given to buy used cars are called “used auto loans”. To get a used auto loan, you are required to show higher credit standards because of the higher risk involved.
  • New auto loans - The auto loans that are provided for a brand new car are known as new auto loans. The credit standards can be of average type and a low credit score is easily acceptable, but for a higher rate of interest.
  • Direct financing - This type of loan is independent of any dealer and so, bargaining can be done which provides more flexibility to it.
  • Second-chance auto loans - It is specifically meant for those people who do not have appreciable credit score.

Many banks and financial institutions offer different types of car loans and you can opt for a specific type that is best suitable for you. You can avail huge discounts and benefits if you are a member of the credit union. Auto dealers also provide you with a much more competent deal than other usual conventional methods.

For more details on wide range of auto loans and auto financing in all credit situations, you can contact Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union, 3305 E Elms Road, Killeen, TX 76542 or you can call at 254-690-2274.

Secured Auto Loan - Cheap Auto Loan

Get Cheap Auto Loan At Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union

Technology has made our lives simpler but has also made us too dependent upon it.  Car for instance, has become one of the biggest necessities today. But buying car is a big expense and only those with hefty money can afford to buy it as per their choice.

However, car loans are available for the convenience of those who do not have enough budgets to buy a car. It provides them with an opportunity to purchase a car of their choice.

Auto loan can be broadly categorized into secured and unsecured loans.  Purchasing a car using secured auto loan is comparatively a better option than opting for an unsecured auto loan. This is because when you opt for a secured loan, you need to keep a valuable asset such as land, house or any other property as a security to the lender. You can avail really low rate of interest as there is a low risk of money and added security for the lender.

On the other hand, unsecured loan does not require any collateral.  For this reason, it is great option for the people who do not own any asset. But the rate of interest is not solely dependent upon the collateral. The other factors like the credit history and ability to repay also play important role in deciding the interest rates.

Cheapest auto loans in Central Texas are available at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union. We provide you with secured car loans regardless of your credit history.  The loan offered by us does not demand any down payment.  Even if you do not have a regular income, we provide you with an auto loan at very reasonable rates of interest.

We are a renowned financing agency throughout Texas for providing our customers with fastest and reliable secured auto loans. The loans offered by us are flexible which suits your financial compatibility. For further details on secured auto loans and car financing, free to contact us at - Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union located at 3305 E Elms Road, Killeen, TX 76542. We can also be contacted at 254-690-2274.

Cheap Auto Loan - Secured Auto Loan

Unable To Afford Your Dream Car?

There is a great diversity and variety in the number of car models available these days. A car has become a kind of a necessity in today’s life and owning your personal vehicle can prove to be quite a joyful experience while also making your life much simpler and easier. If you have had your eye on a new car model that is priced slightly on the higher side and thus is well out of your budget, you need not despair or compromise on a cheaper car model as we can help you obtain auto loans to fulfill your dreams. We offer our services in Texas and specialize in the area of auto loans.

The best thing about our process is that it is very easy to apply for the loan. You need not get into long paperwork and verifications to get your loan request approved. There is a step by step guided process showcased on our website that can help you obtain quotes simply by filling in your area code. There are several parameters that are considered while making the decision of whether to grant a particular client a loan or not. For this purpose, all applicants are required to answer a few simple questions and furnish relevant information so that we can be sure of our clients’ credentials and positively establish his/her identity. All this information helps us arrive at a decision and also helps generate interest rates for the loan in your particular case.

The amount of interest that you will have to pay differs on your financial profile as well as the make or model of the vehicle that you are purchasing. The price of the car is taken into account while formulating different interest rates that are appropriate for different applicants. The interest rates that we offer on our auto loans are much lower than those that can be obtained from other financial institutions in the vicinity. This makes us the most preferable company when it comes to obtaining Auto loans.

To procure secured auto loans comfortably and quickly, visit us at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union, 3305 E Elms Road, Killeen, TX 76542.We can also be contacted at 254-690-2274.

Lowest Used Car Loan - Secured Auto Loan

Do’s And Don’ts About Auto Financing

Auto Financing relates to the financing of the auto vehicles, especially for those buyers who are not able to buy the vehicle of their choice due to the high prices of the vehicle. Auto financing provides them with the auto loans, thereby enabling them to own the cars of their choice instantly and pay for it later. These auto loans help in managing the monthly budget by taking off the burden of paying the huge amount of the vehicle instantly. This is done by levying a reasonable rate of interest which is paid as monthly installments for a pre-decided period of time to the auto loan provider.

Though, auto financing provides you with an easy option of getting the vehicle without worrying about its high prices, there are some do’s and don’ts about auto financing which you should always keep in mind. Some of these do’s and don’ts can be described as under:

Some Do’s about Auto Financing

  • Do introspect and try to analyze your personal financial strength and the credit history, before you could decide about taking an auto loan. It is essential to know what your pocket allows without difficulty at a later stage.
  • Do research well beforehand and decide about the vehicle you intend to buy and the respective prices that are available in the market. Also research about the rate of interests that are offered by the different financial institutions and banks for the auto loans.
  • Do negotiate and try to bargain with the interest rates with the auto loan service providers. Many banks offer low interest rates to grab the attention of the customers but levy hidden charges. Therefore, it becomes important to check and negotiate properly.
  • Do verify the documentations of the auto loans you are applying for and the respective legal formalities related to it. It is also necessary to verify the loan provider which may be a bank, financial institution or private company.

Some Don’ts about Auto Financing  

  • Don’t overdo your budget as it would prove to be a bad deal later on. It is necessary to keep aside some cash or funds for the times of emergency or financial ups and downs.
  • Don’t go for very high rates of interest as it would create problems in the long run.
  • Don’t make decisions in a hurry as it would hamper your loan process as well as your financial position, which may suffer losses.
  • Don’t settle over a deal without thinking over its pros and cons. The deal may look good for a while but it is should be workable in the long run as well.  

For more details on wide range of auto loans and auto financing in all credit situations, you can contact us at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union, 3305 E Elms Road, Killeen, TX 76542 or call us at 254-690-2274.

72 Month Auto Financing - Auto Loan in Killeen, Tx

The Essentials Of Auto Financing

Auto financing can be a hectic process if it is done without proper planning and research. It is an essential part of the loan process taken up by many banks and financial institutions. Auto financing generally refers to the financing of the car, but it may also include other auto vehicles. Thus, while you plan to finance your vehicle, you should investigate all the available options that best suit your requirement.

It is important to choose your Auto financing partner wisely. Some of the major things which you should always keep in mind before getting finance for your vehicle are mentioned below:

  • Check your credit upfront before going for auto financing and take the decision wisely.
  • Compare all the available options for auto loans in the market evaluating their respective competitive prices being offered.
  • Check out the local bank or the credit union which may offer you with low rate of interests and are more convenient.
  • You can also opt for dealer financing where the dealers of the auto companies who provide you with the auto vehicles get your loans sanctioned themselves.
  • You can also examine leasing aspect according to your suitability. It can be a wise as well as a worse decision you can make, as it strictly depends upon your particular needs and requirements.
  • You should always keep in mind not to stretch your budget limits and allot only that part of your income which you can spend comfortably on a monthly basis.
  • Also, do not overextend your loan tenure to 8 - 10 years as it is a long time and various changes take place during this which may or may not complicate your situations.
  • Ensure that you make the maximum amount of money in down payment as you don’t have to stretch or exhaust your savings afterwards.   

For more details on wide range of auto loans and auto financing in all credit situations, you can contact us at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union, 3305 E Elms Road, Killeen, TX 76542 or call at 254-690-2274.

Auto Loan in Killeen, Tx - Secured Auto Loan

72 Month Auto Financing – A Profitable Deal!

Auto financing has become the need of the hour. In the present times, when the vehicles have become so costly that one cannot afford to pay such a huge amount at once, auto financing comes to the rescue. It helps us in owning the vehicle of our choice in short span of time while paying for it later.

Many financial institutions and banks offer auto loans at competitive prices and reasonable rate of interests. Though proper research and verification is a must, you should always keep your financial credit strength in mind while opting for a particular type of auto loan.

The loan tenure plays a significant role while deciding for the respective auto financing which is to be finalized. Auto financing can be availed for short term tenure which would lead to high monthly charges with comparatively less rate of interest. You can also get auto loans for the long term which would result in high total interests being paid up with comparatively low monthly installments.

As, in both the situations, one has to compromise with one thing or the other, the best option you can opt for is the 72 month Auto Financing, which confirms to be the most profitable deal for you. As the tenure is neither too short nor too long, it proves to be the most lucrative deal you can ever think of.

72 month Auto Financing has various benefits, which establishes it to be the most appropriate choice for your auto loan. The diverse benefits are as follows:

  • It is beneficial in the sense that the monthly payments are fixed to be low, which suits your budget as well as pocket.
  • You can always opt for refinancing the 72 month auto loan, as it may benefit you from the changes which are brought by the lending rates.
  • It is the best alternative for those people who have fixed income and small savings, and are not able to invest in luxury cars or vehicles of their own choice due to monetary constraints. Thus, the feel of owning a car of your choice gives you immense satisfaction and happiness.    

For more details on wide range of auto loans and auto financing in all credit situations, you can contact us at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union, 3305 E Elms Road, Killeen, TX 76542 or call at 254-690-2274.

72 Month Auto Financing - Secured Auto Loan

GCTFCU Blog | Credit Union Killeen TX | Home Loans, Secured Auto Loan in Central Texas
Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union,
3305 E Elms Road
Killeen, TX 76542
Telephone: 254-690-2274
www.gctfcu.net

How To Pay Off Your Car Loan Faster- Some Helpful Tips

Buying a new car is always exciting and simple auto loans in Killeen have made procuring the desired set of wheels even more easy. However, when it comes to paying off the loan no matter how cheap, most buyers find themselves making the uncomfortable realization of having spent more than they had set out for. If you are stuck with a car loan that is jeopardizing your life and are desperate to be done with paying it, there are several ways you can make that happen.

The following tips highlight some effective ways to pay off your secured car loan faster and hence save on interest payments in the long run-

  • The first step is to be clear about exactly how much you owe on your car loan. Known as the payoff amount of the loan, this figure is calculated taking in account the amount you have already paid, as well as the payment including interest that you still owe. Knowing exactly how much is still due on your loan can help to create a payment strategy.
  • It is also advisable to be clear about the terms and conditions of your loan from the get-go and know whether repaying the loan before the scheduled period will involve an early penalty fee.
  • Talk to your auto loan provider about payoff options, as some of these institutions may have some provision for waving off the penalty if the entire balance is paid in a single payment. If you can afford to make such a payment this could be the easiest way to pay off your loan without any extra penalty.
  • Another way to pay off your loan quickly is by using any extra cash that you get such as a bonus at work or a cash gift towards your car loan payment.
  • If you feel that you can afford to make a higher monthly payment for your car loan, this could be an option worth considering. For instance, if your current monthly payment is $200, changing it to $300 could help you to pay off the loan faster, and hence save considerably on interest.
  • Another useful tip for paying off your car loan is by borrowing off other investments, such as insurance, house equity, retirement plans, etc., which typically have lower interest rates compared to car loans.

We at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union provide you quick and cheap car loans in Texas. For more details, you can visit us at 3305 E Elms Road, Killeen, TX 76542. You can also call us at 254-690-2274.

The Dos and Donts Of Car Financing

Buying a new car is a dream harbored by many, but when it comes to financing a car in the best possible way, not many are well-versed with the process of doing so. Car financing is a major decision, which usually has a bearing on the next few years’ finances of the buyer, which explains why it is important to carefully consider the dos and don’ts of the process before finalizing it. Contrary to common perception, it is possible to get a financially viable auto-financing deal even with a bad credit, and when shopping on a budget.

The following dos and don’ts of car financing guide you through the process, helping you to make a well-informed decision-

  • Do have a clear picture of the complete price that you shall have to pay by the end of the process, including interest rates and any hidden costs.
  • Do calculate your credit score using a credit calculator beforehand, so as to have a clear idea of what to expect. This can also be helpful in making amends to any flaws in your credit that can be corrected in the short-term.
  • Do decide your budget and stick to it. One of the most common mistakes made by car buyers is that of walking into the car dealership without being sure of how much they intend to spend. This results in them financing a car beyond their budget, and hence ending up with monthly payments higher than they can afford, which puts them at a risk of bad credit.
  • Don’t go to a buy here pay here dealer. While these dealers may seem favorable in the beginning, the usual case with them is that they do not report to the credit bureau unless you default on your loan, which means that they do not help in building your credit.
  • Don’t buy a car in poor condition. No matter how small your budget, buying a car that is either too old or too problematic will simply increase your worries, with the high interest rates on such a car making it all the more difficult.

We at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union provide you with quick and reliable car financing. Whether you want to purchase a new car or a used one, we have solutions for all your car loan needs. For more details, visit us at 3305 E Elms Road, Killeen, TX 76542 or call us at 254-690-2274.

How Used Auto And New Auto Loans Differ?

When making the decision of buying a car, a major consideration that needs to be made is whether to buy a new car or a used one. This becomes even more important when getting a car loan, since loan terms can differ significantly for used cars and new ones. As a buyer, it is important to understand what these differences are, so as to decide which car loan would be better suited to your preferences. The following points highlight the major differences between a used auto loan and a new one-

  • Since used cars have a reduced cost, these loans tend to be smaller than those on new cars, which are obviously longer.
  • The rate of interest on a used car is likely to be higher than that on its new counterpart, owing to the higher risk involved in such a car. In this way, new car loans have the advantage of having lower interest rates.
  • Used car loans are generally considered to be riskier than new auto loans from the lender’s perspective. This is because these loans run the risk of the car’s value falling below the loan’s value before repayment. It is for this reason that buyer’s might be required to pay a higher down payment on a used car than on a new one.
  • It is usually difficult to get a loan on a car that is more than ten years old, since such cars are very risk for the lender.
  • In the long run, the cost incurred on a used car is likely to be substantially less than that on a new car. This is due to the high level of depreciation of a new car when compared to a used car in good condition.
  • As far as the interest rate is concerned, while the condition of the car and whether it is new or used definitely has a bearing, a greater role is played by other more important factors, such as the borrower’s credit rating and the amount being borrowed. This explains why the rate of interest should not be a major factor when deciding whether to buy a new car or a used one.
  • It is a good idea to calculate how much you shall be paying at the end of the loan period in both cases, and take into account the depreciation in the car by then, while making a choice between a new car loan and a used car loan.

To obtain quick, cheap and secured auto loans, consider Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union only. You can visit at 3305 E Elms Road, Killeen, TX 76542 or call us at 254-690-2274.

Choosing Used Car Loan Term

Buying a car is a major step for any buyer, and before taking the plunge into bringing a set of wheels home, it is important to have a clear understanding of how car loans work, and what is the best option for you. The length of a car loan is a critical decision, since it bears an effect on the next few years of your life, making it important to know what you are signing up for. Car loan terms can range from as less as 1 year to as long as 6 years.

There is no one perfect term that is ideal for all buyers, since the length of the car loan depends largely on one’s monthly income, and how much they can afford to pay towards the car loan each month. The car loan term is also influenced by the condition of the car, its price, the amount of down payment the buyer is willing to pay, and several other factors. So the question is, if you are buying a used car, what is the ideal term that you should settle on for your car loan?

Let us take a look at both sides of the coin-

  • Short term auto loan- A short term loan, which is usually considered to be less than three years, can be a good way to save money in the long run, since this shall mean lower interest rates, as well as a lower total payment towards interest. Another advantage of getting a short term  used car loan is that you own the asset faster than you do with a long auto loan. However, the disadvantage of such a loan is the higher monthly payments, which put you at a risk of falling behind on payments.
  • Long term auto loan- Loans that last up to around 72 months are considered to be long term auto loans, and are often the preferred option among buyers who wish to have lower monthly payments, even if this means making these payments for a longer period. Even though you will end up paying more towards interest with a long term loan, it will be easier on your pocket on a monthly/ weekly basis, which is a major advantage for those with low monthly incomes.

Whichever loan term you choose to go with for your auto loan, you can always pay it off before the period, albeit with an early termination fee. In addition to this, you can also refinance your car if you come across a more favorable loan.

We, at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union provide low interest loans for both new and old cars. For more information, you can visit us at 3305 E. Elms Rd., Killeen, TX  76542 or call (254) 690-2274.

 

How To Find The Cheapest Car Loan

Everyone dreams of owning a car and being able to experience the independence that comes with it. So if you have finally decided that it’s time to make this dream come true and are all set to make the great purchase, you should take the next step after picking the right car loan. Even though almost all car loans seem similar to the layman, but when you dig deeper, you realize that there is a huge difference between car loans, and in some cases, these can add up to thousands of dollars in the long run.

The guidelines below help you with some useful tips for getting a cheap car loan-

  • Credit union auto loans- The financial institution that you choose for your car loan can make the biggest difference in the amount you end up paying in the long run. Credit unions have been proved to be a lot cheaper than banks, when it comes to auto loans. So the first step to getting a cheap car loan would be to join a credit union if you aren’t already the member of one. These not-for-profit organizations function by giving back money to their members on cheaper interest rates and lower monthly payments.
  • Evaluate your credit report- By using a free online service available to all US consumers, you can evaluate your credit report beforehand to be sure of what to expect and to have a clearer and more realistic perspective of what your options are.
  • Decide your budget- A mistake that most buyers make is leaving the most important decision of which car to buy and how much to spend on it for the last moment. This often leads to overspending.  Hence you end up with larger monthly payments than you can afford.
  • Look at the complete picture- Make sure that when you are finally negotiating an auto loan, you look beyond what’s being shown to you. At times, what might look great on paper can actually be a bad deal in the long run. Make sure that you do not end up paying more than the car’s actual worth. It is also wise to look carefully at other terms of the law, such as prepayment penalties.

For more tips, visit us at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union at 3305 E Elms Road, Killeen, TX 76542. You can also call us at 254-690-2274.

How Car Financing Works?

Buying a car is one of the costliest purchases most people make in their lifetime, which is why it is important to ensure that you thoroughly understand the process of car financing before taking the plunge. Unless you are one of those rare buyers who can afford to pay the entire price of the car upfront, you will probably have to consider all the financing options before you pick one. Credit unions have emerged as a popular option for auto loans, principally because of the significantly low interest rates that they offer. Here, we shall be discussing how car financing from a typical credit union works.

  1. The first step, of course, is to become a member of a credit union, if you aren’t one already. This is important because most credit unions offer auto loans only to their members. In fact, this is how they are able to function as non-profit organizations, and give back to their members in the form of low interest rates. Be sure to take a look at the type of loans offered by the credit union you are considering before becoming a member.
  2. Once you have secured a membership with a credit union in your area, it is a good idea to take a look at their specific requirements for auto loans, and make sure you have all the documentation required for the loan application process. The paperwork is more or less the same as it would be at a typical bank, the only difference being that you can expect much better assistance and customer care at a credit union. It is a good idea to obtain your credit score and fix and discrepancies that might be present in your record before submitting your application.
  3. With the first two essential steps of your auto financing taken care of, you now need to make the critical decision of which car you wish to buy. It is advisable to decide on the budget beforehand, so as to narrow down your choices of cars you can actually afford. You also need to decide whether you will buy a new car or a used one.
  4. Finally, you need to decide on the amount of down payment that you shall be making, and the loan period that you desire, both of which shall determine your monthly payments.

We at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union provide you quick and cheap car financing in Texas. For more details, you can visit us at 3305 E Elms Road, Killeen, TX 76542. You can also call us at 254-690-2274.

Secured Car Loans Can Help You Find Your Dream Car

Are you wondering how to buy the car of your dream? Getting yourself a secured car loan is your best bet. It is a loan that you can avail by surrendering collateral which you can regain once you have paid back the loan with interest. Every year thousands of people apply for a secured car loan. It is uncomplicated and has many advantages for the borrower. In most of the cases, the car itself is the security. The lender considers the car as the security against the loan. He acquires the car in case the loan is not paid. But sometimes, the lender may ask security of a higher value. In such cases any financial asset such as house, another vehicle or jewelry can be used as collateral. There are three fundamental requirements to get a secured car loan. You should have regular monthly income and you should be able to prove it using bank slip or any other document. Lenders prefer to lend loan to people who are employed somewhere than to self-employed. Also, if you live in a rented apartment you should have proof that to have lived there for at least 12 months.

One of the biggest advantages of getting a secured loan is that the interest is low and the tenure to return the loan can be longer. Since lenders have the security of the collateral the terms are flexible. The borrower can enjoy easy payment of installments, which allows the borrower to plan his or her savings. The lenders are interested in getting their monthly installments on time. As long as you are able to prove that you have a regular income you can get a secured loan regardless of which income group you fall in. Borrowers of secured loan who are asked to surrender their house as collateral often can benefit from tax-deductions. In such a case, the monthly installment is deducted from the tax that one would otherwise pay. Another advantage about secured loan is that it allows a cordial relationship between the lender and the borrower because of the security of collateral. The lenders are not skeptical about getting their installments and they sometimes can even go easy on delay in payment of installment.
 
In these tough economic times choosing secured car loan is the most hassle-free option.

Dos And Don’ts Of Car Financing

Everyone dreams of owning a car that they can proudly say has been bought from their hard-earned money. But you might feel the burden on your pocket since the car prices are high and the economy hasn’t yet stabilized. However, high prices should not dissuade you from buying a car for yourself. A good knowledge about car financing can go a long way in helping you decide which car can be bought within your budget.

Read on to know what are the dos and don’ts of car financing.
Basically, car financing means getting a loan from a bank, a credit union or any other source in order to buy a car. This way you can easily buy a car that you desire. The problem of limited budget can also be resolved with car financing.

  1. Firstly, one must conduct a thorough research on the amount of money that needs to be borrowed. Prior research helps in determining whether a certain dealer is levying extra charges by means of additional costs and hidden interest rates. This groundwork needs to be done properly so that you get the best car financing deal.
  2. Compare and contrast the financing terms of the various auto loan options available. This comparison can be done online by making use of an auto loan calculator. Have concrete information about the current interest rates and get a number of loan options in hand so that you can take a print out and go to a dealership authoritatively.
  3. Never ever cross your budget limits. Always pre-decide on how much you can easily afford and then only go in for car financing. After all, it is you who has to return the money.
  4. You must have a complete look at the manufacturer’s website in order to know what all factory incentives are available. If a financing deal does not suit your budget requirements, don’t hesitate to decline the offer.
  5. Credit Unions offer one of the best car loan options. You need to become a member in order to be eligible for a credit union loan. The advantage here is that these unions are owned by their members and work on a no profit basis. They offer low interest rates and better financing terms. This in turn means your loan is going to be for a shorter period.
  6. There is no need to go in for financing options for add-ons, extended warranties and rust protection etc. Most of the new cars are available inclusive of all these additions.
  7. Don’t get attracted only to a specific model as the dealer might offer you a high price and high interest rate. Keep 2-3 options in mind before going in for car financing.

Keeping the above points in mind will definitely help you get the best car financing deal.

Tips To Help You Choose The Right Car Loan

There are two steps to bring home the car of your dreams- first, finalizing the car that you want to buy and second, choosing the right loan lender. Even though deciding on the former could take a while (boiling down to one that is affordable and what you desire), choosing the latter is definitely tricky. There are various loan lending institutes and to decide upon one is quite a challenge.  Let us explore one of the most suited options.

Taking car loan from a credit union may prove to be most pocket friendly option for you. Credit unions are non-profitable finance organizations. They surely do make profits in order to run their management but their policies are not high on making money from the customers. They are, thus, able to provide loans at fairly low rates of interest, especially when compared to other traditional lending organizations. Most loan consultants will suggest you to make a large down payment. This helps in cutting down the rate of interest that you will be paying regularly. But for those who do not have access to hefty accumulated cash, the only option is to find a car loan lender who offers competitive rates.

Credit unions have hassle-free formalities and the loan gets cleared in as short a period as one day. They are community-friendly and provide great customer services. You get to talk to an agent who will explain all the car loan programs so you can make an informed decision. For example, if you are willing to pay high monthly installments against the loan taken, you may choose a short period loan. They have no hidden charges.

Credit unions often have close associations with local car dealers. Some of the best car deals provided by car dealers are exclusively offered to the credit union they are associated with. Try to find out about any such deals before making your purchase. Being non-profit entities, credit unions lack sufficient funds for marketing and advertising to create awareness about advantages of taking loans from credit unions. Therefore, you may need to research about the credit unions near you and the rates at which they are providing loans. You can find them through online advertisements or by enquiring from car dealers.

Legitimacy of a credit union can be checked on NCUA (National Credit Union Association) website. NCUA is a government body that guards all credit unions balancers. 

For more tips, kindly visit us at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union.  We are located at 3305 E Elms Road, Killeen, TX 76542 or call us at 254-690-2274.

Dos And Don’ts For Buying A New Car

The thought of buying a new car can be very enticing, especially if it’s your first car. But before buying a car, you must bear certain important factors in mind. You cannot just go ahead and buy a car instantly. The car you ultimately go in for has to fit within your budget and suit your tastes. Read on to know certain dos and don’ts that you must be aware of before buying a car for yourself. At the end of the day, it is your hard-earned money that you are going to invest, so you have to make sure that it is spent in the best way.

  • Firstly, you must research about the various options available in the market. You should have knowledge about the accessories as well, since they can add up to a significant cost in the end. This research will help you get the best possible price for your car.
  • Do not go in for a luxury car if your budget does not allow you to do so. You should try not to get a loan spanning more than four years. Also, you must keep your monthly payment less than 10 percent of your income.
  •  Remember to keep in mind the fuel costs and maintenance charges. Only if you can afford these, you should go in for a particular car that you desire.
  • Get in touch with your insurance agent to get an idea on the interest rates beforehand.
  • Do a thorough research on the auto loan options online and compare financing terms using an auto loan calculator. Take a print out and carry these documents whenever you make a visit to the car dealer.
  • Also make sure to check your credit rating in advance. This will help you deal better later on. 
  • Don’t fall flat for a vehicle while ignoring other options. Look for various models and then only choose the one that fits your bill.
  • You should also know the incentives being offered by the car dealer. Therefore, researching on the Internet beforehand about these things can help you prepare in a better manner before you go out to buy a car.

These are some of the simple dos and don’ts which if kept in mind can definitely help you grab a better car deal that is light on your pocket and good for your taste! Make sure you take care of these things whenever you think of buying a new car and you will definitely be better prepared.