Monday, June 25, 2007

Buying A Car After Bankruptc

Buying a car after bankruptcy can be a very challenging task depending on how long it has been since the individual filed. Most people understand when they file, that some of the repercussions include a poor credit score and trouble with future borrowing. Thus, getting a bankruptcy auto loan can be very difficult. Those who are considering purchasing a vehicle need to think carefully about this decision and weigh any and all options. There are many lenders who offer assistance to individuals in this situation, but some do not work for the benefit of the borrower. People need to become informed about the processes and procedures that must be completed before purchasing a vehicle after becoming bankrupt.

Bankrupt status on the personal record may tell lenders that the individual is not a dependable borrower. Once this is on the financial records, an individuals credit is marred for ten years. Fortunately, there is hope. Many people overcome their bankrupt status and go on to have a strong credit score. They even work on buying a house or buying a car after bankruptcy. The key is to work at improving credit as well as finding a reliable lender for bankruptcy auto loans. Since most bankers and lenders won't work with previously bankrupt individuals, borrowers have to look for lenders who specifically offer loans for people with bad credit. These lenders can be found locally, through car dealers, and online. The Internet can be a very convenient way to pursue this, but individuals must watch out for scams. Using good judgment is vital, even before applying for any loans online.

Different lenders for bankruptcy auto loans have different requirements. Naturally, there is an age limit, usually 18. Most also require that the bankrupt status be discharged. Others require that there be no repossessions on an individuals record within the last year. For bankruptcy auto loans, they also usually require a minimum monthly salary based on the consumers credit score. Individuals should not select the lender solely based on whether or not the consumer can meet the requirements. A trusted lender that the person is comfortable with should be chosen. The lender should be well known and legitimate. The Better Business Bureau can be very helpful in determining if there are any existing complaints against a lender.

The consumer should not only choose a good lender for buying a car after bankruptcy, but they must also choose a good loan. The individual must understand that most lenders for buying a car after bankruptcy charge higher interest on their loans than other lenders do. However, watching out for excessively high interest, prepayment penalties and outrageous fees is vital. Individuals need to make sure that the terms of the loan meet personal needs. Only looking at bankruptcy auto loans that have a reasonable interest rate will be helpful in choosing the best option. Someone might be tempted to get a loan with a higher interest rate because the loan is for a larger amount, but this could mean high interest payments. This will only increase the pay-off term. The individual should not be paying for a car long after the vehicle has died. They should look for a loan that will cover a reasonably priced car. Comparing the interest rates of several bankruptcy auto loans and not just a few will offer even more options. Most importantly, reading the loan contract before signing and asking questions will make the agreement much easier to understand.

Before buying a car after bankruptcy, evaluating whether or not the purchase can be put off will be important. The consumer should try to get credit back on track before making a rash purchase after becoming bankrupt. Taking the time to look over other options will be helpful. The consumer can also consider borrowing a friend's car, taking a bus or making repairs on a current vehicle while working on his or her credit record. It will be possible to see a credit score improve simply by paying at or over the minimum balances on time consistently for a number of months. Since the individual has gone through this financial situation, they are likely on a budget. This will be very good to maintain since it will assist in paying your debts off. Although loans can help a credit score, it never helps to obtain a loan with high interest. It only costs more money.

If the individual is still in a bankrupt state, it is best not to pursue a bankruptcy auto loan. After being discharged, it is important to take the time to pray about what may have gone wrong with personal finances. God can give the wisdom and guidance that is needed to determine exactly what got the consumer into this predicament in the first place. Pursue future purchases and loans carefully. This may not be the best time to pursue new loans or credit accounts. "To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven." (Ecclesiastes 3:1)


http://www.christianet.com/bankruptcy/bankruptcyautoloans.htm