It’s rarely a pleasant experience to take out a loan. The process of obtaining a loan from a moneylender can be particularly challenging. As a result of the difficulty in obtaining a loan through the traditional channels, many people turn to private money lenders. Here are some things to think about before getting a loan from a financial institution.
Loan Choices That Might Be Better
Make sure you have looked into any legally possible sources of credit and that none of them will hold you back. Besides traditional banking institutions, non-bank financial companies (NBFCs), financial institutions, peer-to-peer lending platforms, mobile apps also offer access to credit. Some of these methods are fully paperless and straightforward. If you’ve exhausted more conventional lending options and want to proceed, private money lenders are worth looking into.
Official Moneylenders
Every country has a law related to money lending that mandates licensing for the industry. Most of them, sadly, don’t become registered, which means they might engage in dishonest practices. If you need a loan and want to use your own surety, it’s best to go through a legitimate money lender. Consider SKM Credit, which is good at money lending in Toa Payoh, if you want full surety.
Efficacious Interest Rate
Make sure you understand the effective interest rate in full before signing any deal. The effective cost of a loan with a given interest rate and principal balance will vary throughout possible payback terms. Keep in mind that the overall cost will go down if you pay off your loan in fewer, larger payments rather than making frequent, smaller payments.
Extra Costs
Find out if there are any hidden fees associated with borrowing money. Late fees, pre-closure fees, and penalties for dishonored repayment checks are common practices. You should obtain all of this in writing and specify that no additional fees will be assessed beyond what is already outlined in the agreement.
How They Get Their Loan Back
There are shady moneylenders who use loan sharks and debt collectors to get their money back. In cases of payment default, these may resort to violent means. A lot of anger and danger for you and your loved ones might result from this. In particular if the lender is unlicensed. Find out their procedure for collecting on delinquent debts and see whether it can be written into the contract. Before committing to a money lender, it’s always smart to see whether they come recommended or if you can find someone to vouch for them.