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

Mistakes To Avoid When Applying For A Secured Auto Loan

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.

    Choosing The Right Car Loan In Killeen, TX

    Various financial institutions offer car loans with different repayment options. However as a borrower, it is important that you understand your requirements and affordability to avoid any difficulties while repaying the loan amount. 
    Here are some important tips that you must keep in mind while choosing a car loan:

    • Determine your affordability: Undoubtedly, this is the most important per-requisite of applying for a car loan. It is very important to establish your budget for the loan amount to ensure you can pay it off easily. Therefore, determine all our monthly expenses and determine the amount that you would be able to spare monthly. Some people may have the misconception that making large repayments is a good way to pay the loan off early. However, this extra expenditure every month cost can also cause you to financially struggle for your basic needs.
    • Know your budget: After you have set aside the amount that you can afford, you must work upon how you will manage your expenses. If you do not have a steady income, you should opt for a loan that offers flexible repayment options. Make sure that you chalk out a budget that seems practical and realistic.
    • Determine your chances of approval: Most financial institutions have a specified set of criterion to decide on if an applicant’s loan should be approved or not. You should consider your credit history, annual income and other relevant factors to determine the approximate loan amount that you can be lent.
    • Secured or unsecured loan: A secured loan would need you to put up collateral against the money borrowed. In case you fail to pay the loan back, the collateral will be possessed by the lender. Unsecured loans, on the other hand, will possibly have higher interest rates due to no such security. You should be aware of the stakes and take a well informed decision.
    • Interest rates: You must also decide between fixed and variable interest rates. Fixed rates would help you have a clear idea of your monthly repayments, and therefore, manage your budget accordingly. Variable rates however are subject to change according to the present market conditions but can offer benefits too.

    We at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union offer convenient and instant car loans at affordable rates of interest. For more details, feel free to call us at (254) 690 - 2274 or visit our office at 3305 E Elms Road Killeen, TX 76542.

    Home Loan Process

    Home loans are the best alternatives for people who want to own a house but do not have sufficient funds at hand. Borrowing a certain sum of money and them repaying in easy monthly installments helps to relieve the financial burden of the homeowners. However, there is a step by step that must be followed in order to getting a home loan easily. Once you have made your mind to buy a home, your first step after that should be to analyze your credit rating to be able to apply for a loan.

    Here is complete process of applying for a home loan in Killeen, TX:

    • Pre-Qualification: At this stage, your lender will determine how much loan amount you can afford. He will ask questions about your total income, assets and liabilities. According to this information, he will be able to provide you a rough estimate of the money that you can borrow. Although this is not a certification of loan approval, however, you will have an approximate price range at hand and you can search properties accordingly.
    • Pre-Approval: This is a bit more formal process than pre-qualification.For pre-approval, the lender will verify your credit rating, employment and financial information provided by you.This will also help to strengthen your position to negotiate for a property you like.Sellers are more keen to accept offers from buyers who are already been approved for a home loan.
    • Choosing a Lender: There are a number of lenders such as mortgage brokers, banks and credit unions to procure a home loan.Make sure you compare several loan plans before deciding on any one. Although it completely depends on your own choice and preference, credit unions are a good source of financing. They offer low interest rates and easy repayment options on home loans.
    • Submitting The Application: You can visit your lender’s office or call their representatives to visit your place and get the loan application signed. You would also require certain documents to be attached while submitting the application. These may include pay stubs from the previous month, recent bank statements, proof of your assets and liabilities etc.

    After this your lender will appraise the value of the home that you are considering to buy. He will also verify the authenticity of the documents submitted by you. Finally, if everything is satisfactory, the process will be closedand your home loan will be approved.

    For more details about the home loan process in Killeen, you can contact Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union at (254) 690 – 2274.

    How To Save On Your Home Loan

    Whether you need a home loan for buying a new home or remodeling an existing home, you can save a huge amount of money by getting home loans from credit unions. They offer better interest rates, are more flexible with re-payment terms and offer excellent customer service. Credit unions are considered a cross between a bank and a co-operative and often, people who share similar interests, set up a credit union to save money and avail low interest loans. The credit unions have become highly popular among people who seek auto and home loans.

    Credit unions are community organizations that are run by the members and help each other by offering financial assistance. They function like banks but are more flexible as compared to banks and other financial institutions. The members are offered loans at very competitive prices with a possibility of altering the re-payment terms.

    The members of the credit union either live in the same community, work together or have some other common bond. They can also be members of a trade union or a church. The credit unions function on non-profit basis and they use the profits to improve their services and reward their members. The credit unions range from small to large depending on if they have a few or thousands of members. The unions are regulated and they abide by certain rules which are pro customers and aim to extend the profit to their members.

    A credit union offers home loan on the basis of the income of the member, his or her savings with the union and some other terms. They offer loans on lower interest rates as compared to banks and other financial institutions.  
    If you apply for a home loan to a bank, you may have to fulfill a number of formalities and provide huge documents. However, while applying with a credit union, you can expect flexibility and leniency. Banks consider your credit score and offer home loans at high interest rates. They are even strict about the repayment terms and require you to pledge collateral. On the other hand, a credit union is flexible regarding credit score and you can discuss your individual case with them. It is much easier to apply and get a loan approved at a credit union than a bank or other financial institution.

    We, at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union offer quick and convenient home loans at affordable interest rates. For more information, call us at (254) 690 – 2274 or visit our office at 3305 E Elms Road, Killeen, TX 76542.

    Home Loans In Killeen, TX

    Owning a house is a dream for most people but it takes a lot of effort to come true as it requires having a lot of cash in hand. Buying a home is one of the most important and biggest investments of one’s life and it can be made easier with home loans. The provision to have home loans makes it possible for anyone to make this dream a reality. Home loans are easy and a quick way to finance your purchase and banks and financial institutions offer home loans to help people buy the required property. Banks usually offer home loans at their own conditions and even require the applicants to collateral something for the loan. They have rigid terms and repayment conditions and they also consider the individual’s credit history before granting a loan which makes the process very difficult.

    Credit unions are very popular for getting home loans and are a better alternative to banks. Credit unions are organizations that help their members manage the money. These organizations are non-profit, co-operative in nature and basically work for the benefit of the registered members. The union is run by the members through the process of voting. You can easily open a savings account in your union and apply for a home loan without huge credit checks and conditions. The credit unions offer banking and lending services similar to banks but offer many more benefits and ease in application.

    The credit unions offer home loans at low interest rates which can be modified depending on individual circumstances. The credit union offers personalized services and is more concerned about your personal situation as compared to banks. They have a softer approach and their processes are not as rigid as bank procedures. They offer speedier closings and consider your case even if you have had some credit issues in the past. Using credit union is secure and safe as the members assure that their organization is strong and dependable.

    We, at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union, have been helping people in Killeen, TX since 1957. We offer low interest loans to our members and strive to offer the most reliable services. You can create a checking account and a saving account with us. We offer debit card, credit card and other facilities similar to a bank. You can avail home loan, auto loan and other small loans from us at attractive rates with convenient repayment options. We offer loans at flexible terms and help you save a huge amount of time and effort. To know more please visit us at 3305 E Elms Road Killeen, TX 76542 or call at ( 254 ) 690 - 2274.

    Steps Before Considering Secured Loan In Killeen

    Secured loan is a type of loan where the borrower mortgages his asset as an assurance for the loan. Borrowers who consider a secured loan usually enjoy low interest rates and get fair tax deductions at the time of calculation of taxes.  Secure Loan is becoming very common due to its benefits for both the borrower and the loan provider. However many people are unaware of the necessary steps that should be taken before considering a secured loan.

    Here are some tips to guide you regarding the necessary considerations for before obtaining a secured loan:

    Create A Checklist:

    There are many points that need to be considered before applying for a secured loan. These points may help you in taking a decision regarding the amount of loan to be taken or may change your decision for taking a loan altogether. The important points are:

    • Check credit card balance transfers
    • Check credit reference files
    • Calculate the savings
    • Make a budget
    • Calculate the savings
    • Calculate the amount to be borrowed

    Analyzing the above mentioned steps can help you in deciding the need for a secured loan.

    Search For A Reliable Secured Loan Provider:

    There are many types of risks associated with applying for a secured loan, therefore it your responsibility to select the secured loan provider diligently. You should perform complete market research and collect information about the goodwill and trustworthiness of the loan provider. You may also compare the interest rates and amount of loan provided with similar loan providers.

    Do the necessary enquiry:

    After you choose the secured loan provider it is essential to enquire about the plan offered by them in detail. The enquiry includes time period of the loan, interest rate, options available for early payment of the loan and the exact amount of loan provided.

    Read the agreement prior to signing:

    Before signing the agreement it should be read properly to avoid any confusion after the procurement of the loan. Consider the terms and conditions in the agreement for prepayment penalties and clauses which may not be in your favor. The borrower should also set up a payment schedule after the procurement of the loan in order to avoid chaos related to the monthly loan payment and make the complete repayment stress-free.

    We at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union provide secured loan to our clients at affordable interest rates. To know the secured loan options offered by us visit at 3305 E Elms Road Killeen, TX 76542 or call at ( 254 ) 690 - 2274.

    For A Cheaper Auto Loan, Try A Credit Union

    If you are looking to buy a new or old car and have exhausted almost every financing option, then credit unions can come to your rescue. Credit unions are the financial institutions set up by a group of people who pool their resources to provide loans and financial assistance to the members. Since they are non-profit organizations, you get expect competitive interest rates and quicker loan approval. These features have made credit unions an attractive option to consider for an auto loan

    Benefits of choosing a credit union for auto loan-

    1. More chances of getting loan approved – Although credit unions do check your credit history, they are quite flexible in making a few adjustments in the loan terms. This can come as a breather for a number of people who have not been able to secure a loan from other financial institutions. The loans are usually approved quickly and even the documentation work is minimal. Being a member of these credit unions can add up to these privileges.
    2. Low interest rates –The loans provided by the credit unions are offered at much lower interest rates than any other financial institution. Knowing that, you can have considerable amount of savings on your loan payment. 
    3. Personalized service - Since credit unions are non-profit organizations and strive to provide the best experience to their clients, they offer flexible repayment options on your auto loan, depending on your circumstances. You can even discuss your concerns regarding the loan with the representatives at the credit union. This can help ease a lot of pressure and other issues regarding the loan.
    4. Non sales approach – Credit unions usually follow a non-sales approach and do not try to sell any other financial products to you. Rather, they strive to provide better services to their customers.
    5. Better educational resources – Credit unions also provide you the necessary information related to the financing options and also help in assessing the real value of your car. They work for your best interest and assist you in making the right decision about the auto loan.

    Credit unions are a great option for auto loans as the process is very easy and stress free. The staff assists you in all aspects of loan application process. For more information about auto loans, visit Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union. You can call at (254) 690 – 2274 or visit our office at 3305 E Elms Road, Killeen, TX 76542.

    Tips On Shopping For Auto Loan In Killeen, TX

    Buying a car is one of the major expenses that people indulge in and it is extremely important that all the options should be considered carefully before taking a decision. In order to help you out with the search as well as to reduce your overall expenses given here are some useful tips that can be of great help in deciding your auto loan.

    • Determine your budget: The first and foremost step is to clearly establish what you can actually afford and finalize your budget. This will help you determine which vehicle you can buy, either new or used, and clarity about your financing options. To make this decision you would need to calculate all your monthly expenses and then conclude if you will be able to afford buying a car.
    • Evaluate the cost of the car: Once you have set aside the expenditure plan you should check for your options in that budget. You can look through the internet or visit a local dealer for this however, make sure that you do not exceed your predefined budget.
    • Check your credit score: You must also check your credit rating in order to be assured that your loan application will be approved. You can consult a credit union to avail auto loans at lower interest ratesthan banks.
    • Do proper research: Do not decide on an option before comparing and researching several loan rates. Interest rates depend on a number of factors such as car make and model, your credit rating, the loan term, your financial status etc. Discuss with your agent about all the issues that come up in your mind and have all your questions answered. 
    • Focus on the loan amount: Your agent may ask you to lower the monthly repayment amount to make it easier on your pocket. Even though it may help you to save a few hundred dollars per month but it will add up to the interest rates. Thus, you should focus on lowering the loan amount instead of monthly payment.
    • Consider other finance options: If you are unemployed or not financially stable, auto loan might not be suitable for you. Instead, consider going for secured loans that offer more flexibility and ease in repayment options.

    If you are looking for car financing options in Killeen, TX, visit Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union. We offer quick and convenient auto loans at competitive interest rates. For more information, feel free to call us at (254) 690 – 2274. You can also visit our office at 3305 E Elms Road, Killeen, TX 76542.

    Home Loan Tips For First Time Buyers

    Most people who wish to gain possession of a new house seek for a reliable source of money to help them realize their dream. As a first time property buyer, there are a few things you should consider before getting a loan. They are mentioned below -

    Decide the type of house

    Before you even apply for a home loan you should be clear about the type of house that you wish to buy. Your options include apartments, duplexes, condos and mansions. Deciding on the most suitable kind of home helps you get suitable terms based on the price of the house (and consequently the return term for the loan). This can even help you score a favorable return term for investing in 'need based' acuity.

    Decide the number of years

    You as a loan seeker should decide on the number of years that you want to return the borrowed amount over. If you have a decent income and can afford it you should try to pay the debt off in a short term such as 4 or 6 years. The quicker a loan is paid off the lower is the gross interest amount. But before making your mind you should take your overall budget and foreseen expenses into consideration as well because selecting a longer term can help you deal with the costs even if you wind up paying more interest. 

    Determine your loan eligibly

    You should deal with all impending charges, bills and loans and focus on maintaining a consistent streak to get your credit rating higher to increase your loan eligibility. This will help you file for a loan successfully in the first attempt. In addition you should not forget to carry all the important documents to prove your eligibility.

    Know about the charges

    You should infer about the any additional charges before applying for the loan. Additional charges include those related to administration, service and any other fees. Also, choose the lender based on the amount of overhead charges charged with the home loans.

    Consider credit unions

    Finally, look into any credit union in your local area as the interest rate offered by credit unions is significantly lesser than a typical bank. As the very basis of their existence is to help the community the staff at credit unions is always rooting for their clients and goes out of their way to guide them. You can also use such credit unions to address other financial needs such as opening a saving or current account.

    We, at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union provide affordable home loans. For more details, kindly visit us at 3305 E Elms Road, Killeen, TX 76542 or call us at 254-690-2274.

    Car Buying Made Easy: Credit Unions In Killeen, TX

    If you have been thinking about buying a car and are worrying about the finances, then credit unions can be the perfect solution for all your concerns. The easy and affordable car loans offered by the credit unions in Killeen, TX have made car buying easy for everybody. Whether you want to buy a new or used car, there are a number of reasons why you should consider getting a car loan from a credit union.

    • Better chance of approval: You are more likely to get an easy approval for car loans at a credit union than from a bank. Credit unions aim at the benefit of their clients and are even ready to make slight modifications in the policy to suit the needs of their clients.
    • Lower rates of interest: A credit union offers affordable car loans at lower rates of interest than any other lending institution. With such low interest, you can make a lot of savings and invest your hard earned money in other profitable ventures.
    • User friendly loan process: With most lending institutions, the applicants have to personally go and submit the papers for the loan. However, with a credit union, you can even apply online for a loan which helps you save time.
    • Personalized services: Since credit union are non-profit organizations and is managed by a group of volunteer board members, they keep their customers’ interests on priority. You can freely talk to them about the loan, repayment options, as well as your financial position. They can suggest some loan options that could be better for your situation.
    • Resource centers: Credit unions have well established resource centers in order to provide information to the customers about the different financing options and help them in making the right decision.
    • Non-sales approach: Credit unions do not work for their own profit and rather their sole purpose is to provide easy car loans to those who cannot afford to pay heavy interests to the banks.

    If you are planning to apply for an affordable car loans in Killeen, TX, visit Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union. We provide hassle free loans at competitive rates of interest. For more information about car loans offered by us, you can call at (254) 690 – 2274 or visit our office at 3305 E Elms Road Killeen, TX 76542.