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by Marsh Finance on Aug 8, 2024 3:00:00 PM
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What To Look Out For In Your Finance Agreement
Buying a car is a big decision. For a lot of people, car finance is the best way to do this. With car finance, you can spread your costs over time, making it easier to afford them. Even though car finance is a really good option, it is important to read the fine print before you sign your contract. To get the best deal, we have put together our top five things to look out for.
PCP Or HP? Understand Your Options
In car finance, there are two options: Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) and Hire Purchase (HP). Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) is a popular choice for lots of people. It allows you to deposit and make monthly payments over a fixed term. At the end of the term, you can pay a balloon payment and keep the car, trade it in for a new one, or hand it back.
Hire Purchase (HP) is another good option. With HP, you make monthly payments over a fixed term, and the car is yours at the end. The main difference between the two options is that you’re paying off the entire vehicle cost over the agreement term with HP. With PCP, you only pay off a portion of the car’s value.
When deciding which option is best for you, you need to understand the pros and cons of each. With PCP, you can change your car every few years, and the monthly payments are typically lower. With HP, you own the vehicle at the end of the agreement, and there are no mileage restrictions or penalties for going past your mileage limit.
Check The Interest Rate And APR
Interest rate and APR (Annual Percentage Rate) are two important factors in any car finance agreement. The interest rate is the percentage of the loan amount you will pay in interest over the contract term. The APR includes the interest rate plus any other fees and charges.
Make sure you understand the total cost of the loan and compare it to other finance options before making a decision. A low-interest rate may look attractive, but it’s essential to consider any additional fees and charges that may be included. If a car finance agreement offers 0% interest rates, it might have higher fees.
It’s also important to consider your credit score when looking at interest rates. A higher credit score often results in a lower interest rate, saving you a lot of money over the agreement term.
Understand Any Fees And Charges
Car finance can have added fees and charges. These can include arrangement and early termination fees. Don't ignore these added costs. You need to have a good idea of all the fees you might face before you go into a car finance agreement.
Before you sign, ask for a full breakdown of any fees and charges. With some car finance agreements, you might have to take out insurance policies. An example is GAP insurance, which can also add to the total cost of the loan.
Check For Any Restrictions Or Limitations
Some car finance agreements may come with restrictions or limitations. In some cases, you might have to stick to a mileage limit, and not make any changes to your car. It’s really important to understand any conditions or limitations before signing the agreement.
If there are any restrictions or limitations that you’re not comfortable with, consider a different finance option.
Read The Fine Print
It’s crucial to read the fine print of any car finance agreement before signing it. Make sure you understand the following before taking the next step:
- Terms and conditions of the agreement.
- Length of the contract.
- The total amount you’ll be paying, and any additional terms.
Make sure you understand what will happen if you miss a payment or want to end the agreement early. It’s also important to understand what will happen at the end of the agreement, whether you choose to keep the car, trade it in, or return it.
If you need clarification on any of the terms of the agreement, feel free to ask questions. A reputable car finance provider should be willing to explain any terms or conditions you need info on.
Conclusion
In conclusion, buying a car through a finance agreement can considerably reduce costs. However, it’s crucial to understand the contract terms and ensure you’re getting the best deal possible. By understanding your options, checking the interest rate and APR, understanding any fees and charges, checking for restrictions or limitations, and reading the fine print, you can make an informed decision and ensure that you’re getting a car finance agreement that works for you.
If you’re looking for a car finance option to suit your needs, we offer both PCP and HP options. You can apply online for a free soft search to see if you’re eligible.
To see if you’re eligible, apply here.